Holland FWAL aluminum 5th wheel

Discussion in 'Trucks [ Eighteen Wheelers ]' started by Nevs, Feb 25, 2011.

  1. Nevs

    Nevs Light Load Member

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    Does anyone have any input/experience on the Holland aluminum top plate? Pros and cons? I know it is considerably lighter, but I also know it isn't cheap. Just curious how well it holds up. All replys appreciated.
     
    Last edited: Feb 25, 2011
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  3. Pablo-UA

    Pablo-UA Road Train Member

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    it is not fully aluminium. Lock is made of steel.

    it is twice lighter, but the real difference is about 100 kg.

    IMO - no reason to overpay.
     
  4. Jfaulk99

    Jfaulk99 Road Train Member

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    Might consider one if the truck was already ordered to be light. I'm sure they have their limitations and are not recommend for all apps but would be nice for an already light tractor.
     
  5. Nevs

    Nevs Light Load Member

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    According to the Holland website, they are rated for up to 105,000 gvw.
    My tractor is pretty light for what it is, and given that I haul bulk, I'm looking for every reasonable way possible to save additional pounds. Just want to make sure there are no issues. Depending upon what it would cost to switch, I doubt it would be a quick return on investment.
     
  6. dwmac71

    dwmac71 Light Load Member

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    aluminum has cycle life I.E. no aluminum springs not because they can't do the job they will not last.
    If you load a 20,000LB steel spring to 10,000lb you could work it near to forever.
    But do that with aluminum and with in a short time it will fail.
    I guess what I'm saying is aluminum has a wear/work memory.
    That is why aircraft are scraped after X number of hours.
    A 5th wheel seems to be a high load/friction place for aluminum to me.
    But what do i know, next they will probably make them out of carbon fiber
     
  7. Nevs

    Nevs Light Load Member

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    Holland says 5 years/ 500,000 miles warranty...

    I figure I've got an aluminum pickup plate in my trailer,(granted, the kingpin is steel), that is working out fine, why not loose another 100-125 pounds. When you are paid by the pound, weight becomes a big deal. If I was working off of mileage or a flat rate, I wouldn't even consider it. And, I do understand aluminum has a life cycle...
     
  8. dwmac71

    dwmac71 Light Load Member

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    The Holland price list Is in the $3100 to $4000 for the top plate depending on model if I am reading the price list right.
    So if you know what your old plates weight you can figure the R.O.I.
     
  9. Pablo-UA

    Pablo-UA Road Train Member

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    ROI longer truck life....
     
  10. Nevs

    Nevs Light Load Member

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    Wow, I better buy locally, I was offered a new one for a little over a $1000, unless I misunderstood him. $3100-$4000 would be a deal breaker.
     
  11. Pablo-UA

    Pablo-UA Road Train Member

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    I see non greesable Jost 5th wheels. With teflon sticker. No greese on frame, axes.
     
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