Overdrive Magazine | Trucking Business News & Owner Operator Info
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/85445
LOGBOOK What is the proper way to lubricate a fifth wheel? By Dan Arcy Shell Lubricants application of fifth wheel grease is essential, but the application is often done incorrectly. It might not be the most complicated part of a truck, but the fifth wheel is an important one. When the fifth wheel plate is properly lubricated it can operate at peak performance for a long time. Proper The best way to judge whether it is time to reapply fifth wheel grease is to visually inspect it. Too thin of a film will cause greater wear on the fifth wheel; however a film of old grease can be a problem as well. It is important to regularly remove old grease, as lubricants can become contaminated when mixed with the dust and dirt of thousands of highway miles. When the fifth wheel is clean of old grease, begin applying a small bead of grease evenly in a back-and-forth motion. Apply a heavier coat to the rear two-thirds of the fifth wheel as the grease will be pushed forward when engaging the kingpin of a trailer. Careful though, over-lubricating will waste grease and can cause it to fall on the axle or frame rail. In addition, grease that spills onto the ground can be harmful to the environment. Using the proper grease is essential. Often, different types of greases or oils are used, but grease formulated specifically for fifth wheel applications provide the best lubrication. The proper thickness is crucial as thin greases will wear away quickly during wet conditions and grease that is too thick may cause clumping. To assure a fifth wheel remains properly lubricated use grease with heavier base oils to attain adequate film thickness. Proper fifth wheel grease will hold up during harsh weather conditions and provide increased wear protection. Shell Lubricants offers Shell Gadus® A1000XD 2 Grease – a heavy-duty calcium grease formulated with a high level of solid additives for enhanced load carrying capability. With its high solids content and heavy base oil formula, this grease provides an effective lubricant film even under the heavy stress and constant sliding contact experienced in fifth wheels. S3 This monthly column is brought to you by Shell Lubricants. Got a question? Visit ROTELLA.com, call 1-800-231-6950 or write to The ANSWER COLUMN, 1001 Fannin, Ste. 500, Houston, TX 77002. The term "Shell Lubricants" refers to the various Shell Group companies engaged in the lubricants business. 20 | Overdrive | September 2012 Medical examiner registry site goes live of Transportation announced. a rule establishing the registry. The rule requires that health care – Staff Reports SHORT HAULS AN INSPECTION BLITZ in mid-July put 256 drivers out of service in Oregon, the state's Department of Transportation said. Also, 82 vehicle- focused inspections were conducted that resulted in 54 vehicles being placed out of service. A DRIVER APPRECIATION video contest, held in honor of National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, Sept. 16-22, is offering drivers a pork rind and duct tape prize pack and $1,500 to its winner. The contest, presented by Rudolph foods and ShurTech Brands, is asking drivers to submit videos that fi ll in the phrase "Three things I always keep in my truck: a bag of pork rinds, a roll of Duck Tape, and _____________." COMMON QUESTIONS about electronic onboard recorders are answered on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website, following President Obama's signing of legislation that mandates electronic logs. Visit fmcsa.dot.gov. Former Overdrive editor dies in accident at home Longtime trucking/business journalist Max Overdrive and Truckers News this year. Max Kvidera – Staff Reports Text INFO to 50298 or visit ovdinfo.com