There are two different types of fifth wheels for semi trucks, including fixed and sliding. But what is a fifth wheel? It is the hitch that connects your trailer to your cab. A sliding fifth wheel is an important mechanism for your trailer that allows you to haul a variety of loads.
While each option has its advantages, this article will give you everything you need to know about why a sliding fifth wheel is an ideal option. We’ll explore the pertinent information regarding this type of fifth wheel and how it can be an ideal solution for your trucking operation.
How Does a Sliding Fifth Wheel Work?
A fifth wheel is an attachment hitch and has a flat plate that is horseshoe shaped. The metal rail beneath it attaches to the tractor’s frame, which will provide you with the strength that you need.
The sliding fifth wheel hitch is then connected to a semi-trailer through a two- or three-and-a-half-inch diameter steel pin. This pin is located at the front bottom of the trailer. The kingpin is securely locked into the horseshoe plate, and allows the trailer to pivot to ensure safe turning.
The hitch itself can move on rails. When the pins are released, the tractor can move the trailer forward or backward to accommodate the amount of weight they need to haul.
Sliding Fifth Wheel Explained
A sliding fifth wheel is a mechanism for your semi that allows weight to be properly distributed between the drive axles and the steer axle. This coupler links the semi-tractor with the trailer with a sliding mechanism that moves the tractor forward or backwards based on your hauling needs.
Why Is it Called a Fifth Wheel?
You might be surprised to find out that the term fifth wheel actually originated in the days of horse-drawn wagons. The term “fifth wheel” came about because the company that created it in the early 1900s decided to keep it simple by naming the device after the round shape of the hitch.
The shape of the hitch has changed over time, but when it was named it was in the shape of a wheel. Back then, the hitch was a mechanism that allowed the front axle to pivot, which allowed side to side steering.
What Is the Purpose of a Sliding Fifth Wheel?
The purpose of a sliding fifth wheel is to allow the semi-trailer to have a more generous turning radius. This can help drivers when they get into a tight spot. Additionally, the fifth wheel also helps distribute weight evenly between your drive axles and your steering axle.
Why Would One Need a Sliding Fifth Wheel?
There is one very big question you should ask yourself when determining whether to get a sliding fifth wheel or not. That question is, “Are your loads uniform or do they vary in weight?”
If you answered that they vary in weight, then a sliding fifth wheel is an ideal choice. They are suited for pulling different trailer sizes, weights, and weight distributions.
When you’re hauling trailers with varying weights, you want to ensure that there’s proper distance between the tractor and the trailer.
Is a Sliding Fifth Wheel the Only Type of Fifth Wheel?
No, a sliding fifth wheel is not the only type of fifth wheel. There is also a fixed fifth wheel. This is also a common fifth wheel utilized in the transportation industry. However, this type of fifth wheel is recommended when you’re pulling trailers that have consistent loads or weights.
Why Slide the Fifth Wheel?
When determining if a sliding fifth wheel is worth the investment, you’ll want to determine if any of the following factors are applicable to your business.
Weight Distribution
Like all things within the trucking industry, the Department of Transportation (DOT) has regulations for weight distribution. They regulate how heavy a truck can be per axle. With a sliding fifth wheel, you’ll be able to properly allocate the weight to ensure that you’re DOT compliant.
Flat Bed Purposes
If you have a flatbed, having a sliding fifth wheel can allow you to have more space. With the additional space you can ensure your load is properly distributed, which will make a helpful difference.
Driver Preference
While weight distribution is important for the DOT, it’s also important for many drivers. Truckers sometimes feel more comfortable when they haul trailers where the weight is closer to the cab.
Others prefer it if the weight is further away from the cab. With a sliding fifth wheel, drivers have the flexibility to adjust to a distance that makes them feel comfortable, as long as they’re DOT-compliant.
Sliding Fifth Wheel vs. Fixed Fifth Wheel
A fixed fifth wheel is mounted to the tractor frame. However, a fixed fifth wheel does not have the ability to move forwards or backwards along the rails. Instead, it is fixed in place.
A fixed fifth wheel is a useful option if you’re regularly transporting the same weight and the same trailer size. If you are confident that you’ll be transporting uniform loads, you’ll be able to utilize a fixed fifth wheel.
However, if you’re looking for the flexibility to haul different types of loads, you’ll want to consider a sliding fifth wheel. It’s suited to pull different weights, types of trailers, and properly distribute the weight across axles.
Other Uses of a Sliding Fifth Wheel
Fifth wheels are not just utilized for the trucking industry. They are also commonly found in the camping and RV industry.
Just like the benefits of utilizing a fifth wheel for a semi-truck, a sliding fifth wheel can be installed in a pickup bed to haul a camper. It’s a vital way for you to ensure proper weight distribution and to ensure there’s enough space between the truck and the camper when turning.
Cost of a Sliding Fifth Wheel
When considering the cost of your entire semi-truck investment, you won’t want to forget about the cost for a sliding fifth wheel if you plan to haul inconsistently weighted loads. This can add a few thousand dollars to your overall expenses, but will be well worth the investment.
Be sure to talk with an expert to find the equipment that is best suited for not only your current loads, but also has the ability to be adjusted if you expand your trucking business to varying loads. You’ll want to consider a fifth wheel that can handle the weight of any load that you can envision hauling.
The Flexibility of a Sliding Fifth Wheel
When you’re in need of a fifth wheel, you should highly consider the sliding version. The biggest selling feature is that it has the maneuverability to adjust as needed.
This allows you to have the freedom and flexibility to haul different trailers and load weights with ease, while still staying DOT-compliant. The design makes for a much smoother transportation process, especially when it comes to tight turns, and drivers can adjust their loads to a position that they’re comfortable working with as well.
