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XL-FW10028UM-en-US Rev B · 2021-08-04 · Amendments and Errors Reserved · © SAF-HOLLAND, Inc., SAF-HOLLAND, HOLLAND, SAF,
and logos are trademarks of SAF-HOLLAND S.A., SAF-HOLLAND GmbH, and SAF-HOLLAND, Inc.
Operation Instructions
5. Fifth Wheel
Non-Intended Use
1. Operating with a non-SAE compliant
kingpin, such as kingpins which are bent,
have improper size or dimensions, are
not properly secured, or are installed on
warped trailer bolster plates.
Failure to couple with a
SAE compliant kingpin
could result in improper
coupling, allowing
tractor-trailer
separation, which, if not
avoided, could result in
death or serious injury.
2. Operating with upper coupler and
fifth wheel lube plates that do not
maintain the SAE kingpin dimensions.
Refer to SAF-HOLLAND Service Bulletin
(Document No. XL-SB004-01), available
on the internet at www.safholland.us,
for more information on fifth wheel
lube plates.
Failure to couple with a
SAE compliant kingpin
could result in improper
coupling, allowing
tractor-trailer separation,
which, if not avoided,
could result in death or
serious injury.
3. Tow-away operations which damage or
interfere with the proper operation of
the fifth wheel.
4. The attachment of lifting devices.
5. The transport of loads in excess of
rated capacity.
6. In off-road applications.
7. Applications other than those
recommended in the SAF-HOLLAND Fifth
Wheel Catalog & Specification Guide
(Document No. XL-FW10066SG-en-US),
available on the internet at
www.safholland.us.
Use of fifth wheel in
non-intended
applications could result
in tractor-trailer
separation which, if not
avoided, could result in
death or serious injury.
6. Coupling Preparation
1. Prior to coupling, an inspection MUST
be performed on the fifth wheel and
mounting to verify the following:
Confirm that lube plates are in
place and firmly fastened.
Tighten loose fasteners.
Replace missing fasteners.
Repair/replace missing, cracked or
otherwise damaged components.
FW33 - Inspect the fifth wheel
mechanism. Lubricate dry or rusty
components.
For a sliding fifth wheel, ensure that
both plungers are fully engaged.
Inspect air line connections.
Ensure that the fifth wheel is
properly positioned on the tractor
to accommodate appropriate axle
weight distribution. For proper
positioning of the fifth wheel, refer
to SAF-HOLLAND publication
XL-FW10008BM-en-US available on
the internet at www.safholland.us.
2. Ensure that the coupling area is flat,
level, and clear of persons and obstacles.