5th wheel problem?

Discussion in 'Freightliner Forum' started by Dobber2450, Oct 2, 2018.

  1. Dobber2450

    Dobber2450 Bobtail Member

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    Feb 15, 2018
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    So I just got emptied and rehooked to my trailer, I'm driving to the gate and put the brakes on and feel a big thud. Almost felt like getting rear ended, but it felt like it was underneath me, like under the seat. I know the title says 5th wheel, but I can't think of what else it would be. I only know what they taught in the school I'm no mechanic. I've been feeling it here and there for a while now. It hits harder when it's empty so obviously the weight plays a big part in whatever sliding around down there. When it's heavy there's more resistance and isn't as noticeable. Any help is greatly appreciated
     
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  3. Hegemeister

    Hegemeister Road Train Member

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    You may have alot of play in the 5th wheel jaws. May be too much slop. It may need to be adjusted. Hold the trolley brake and try to move the tractor forward and reverse. See if you can feel any movement.
     
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  4. Kyle G.

    Kyle G. Road Train Member

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    Let’s start with the obvious... did you visibly make sure the 5th wheel was locked properly before taking off? Are the slider pins on your tandems locked properly? You would be amazed how many people don’t check these things.
     
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  5. boneebone

    boneebone Road Train Member

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    Your 5th wheel jaws need to be adjusted and tolerances checked with a King Pin Fifth Wheel Tool, if it can't be adjusted within specs, the fifth wheel jaws will need to be replaced as they're worn.
     
    Last edited: Oct 2, 2018
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  6. shogun

    shogun Road Train Member

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    Bet the tandem pins are unlocked.
     
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  7. BUMBACLADWAR

    BUMBACLADWAR Road Train Member

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    Ok...so Same trailer..Wasnt knocking or pushing you before the rehook? Like others said,check those tandem pins,for lock in & make sure the frame holes arent "augered out". And make sure youre not "high hooked on 5th wheel plate(no gaps above plate& get behind there and make Sure bar is across. JMO
     
  8. Dobber2450

    Dobber2450 Bobtail Member

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    All pins are locked. It doesn't just happen after a load or unload. It happens in the middle after days of not touching anything. And yes I always check the jaws. I have checked for play by rocking it with the trolley valve down and didn't really notice anything. Now that it's empty I can definitely feel it. How serious is this? Do I need to worry about my trailer blazing it's own trail off the freeway? Lol
     
  9. Dobber2450

    Dobber2450 Bobtail Member

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    Feb 15, 2018
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    Didn't really notice before when it was heavy, tried it again empty and I can definitely feel it.
     
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  10. Rubber duck kw

    Rubber duck kw Road Train Member

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    Just give it a turn to tighten it and see if it helps, thatll answer your question a lot quicker and cheaper than anything on here.
     
  11. Dobber2450

    Dobber2450 Bobtail Member

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    Feb 15, 2018
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    Company truck, I'm not touching it unless I know 100% what the hell I'm doing lol
     
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