Getting To Know Your Fifth Wheel: Top Plates

The Importance of Fifth Wheel Top Plates

Next up in our series on the fifth wheels in your semi-truck, we'll be discussing the importance of top plates and the role they play in helping your fifth wheel move smoothly while you are operating your vehicle. No matter what kind of heavy-duty vehicle you operate, towing jobs are close to impossible without the use of a fifth wheel top plate. The top plate in your fifth wheel is one of the most important components to consider when you are making your regular checks. Without a functioning top plate, your fifth wheel will not help your trailer move smoothly.

To help you learn as much as possible about top plates, our experts have put together the following review for you to read through. Read on to learn more about the fifth wheel top plates in your semi-truck!

What is a Fifth Wheel Top Plate?

The fifth wheel top plate in your commercial truck is the horseshoe shaped plate that's connected to the main frame of the truck. The purpose of the fifth wheel top plate is to make sure trailers and cargo have a secure connection for large loads.

The top plate is designed to be the cast part of your semi-truck's fifth wheel. Top plates are developed to secure the coupling components and vertical trailer or cargo load. The largest component of a fifth wheel, the top plate is an integral piece in making sure your trailer turns properly.

Maintaining Your Fifth Wheel Top Plates

If they are not maintained properly throughout their lifespan, the weight put on fifth wheel top plates can cause damage or a break down in components. Maintaining the fifth wheel top plate in your semi-truck ensures longevity of the plate and internal equipment. Top plates use several internal components designed to provide smooth operation at a wide variety of speeds. These components include:

· Lockjaw

· Springs

· Bushings

· Release Handle

If the internal components found in the top plate do not operate properly, your vehicle will not connect or disconnect from the trailer. There is also the possibility that the trailer may disconnect while driving. Movement between semi and trailer can affect handling and might cause you to lose control. That is why proper maintenance of your fifth wheel plate is essential.

When making your regular checks you'll want to be sure to check the following:

· Lockjaws: over time, the lockjaws in the top plate will wear down and loosen. If they are loose, your trailer could completely disconnect.

· King Pin: This king pin will wear down eventually, which will create free play with your top plate.

Why Should you Grease the Fifth Wheel Plate?

It is incredibly important to be sure that your fifth wheel top plate is greased properly at all times. When the fifth wheel top plate is properly lubricated, the trailer will move more smoothly and freely at any speed.

Read More About Fifth Wheels

If you are looking to learn a little more about the fifth wheels in your semi-truck, then you've come to the right place. In order to help you gain as much knowledge as possible, our team of experts will be bringing you a full article on each of the components that make up the fifth wheel system. Click any of the links below to read more about fifth wheel components!

· Getting To Know Your Fifth Wheel

· Getting To Know Your Fifth Wheel: Landing Legs

Shop Fifth Wheel Parts Today!

For those looking into replacement parts for their semi-truck, you've definitely found yourself at the right location. No matter what fifth wheel component you've had your eye on for your semi-truck, we have a full selection for you to choose from. Whether you are looking for top plates, king pins, or landing legs, we'll have it from some of the most notable brands in the industry. Login or create an account to start saving on your next fifth wheel component today!