It’s that time of the year again when the chilly temperatures start to take their toll on trucks of all kinds. Now is the right time to get your semi truck’s fifth wheel ready for the severe weather that is to come. Winterizing your fifth wheel will not only keep it from getting damaged but will also save you time and allow your business to operate without interruptions. At Birmingham Mobile Semi Repair, we know how crucial it is to keep up with your equipment, so let’s go ahead and discuss the steps that you need to take to winterize your fifth wheel in a proper way.
How Is The Cold Temperature A Problem?
Winter conditions, such as freezing temperatures and heavy road salts, can damage your fifth wheel, causing corrosion and performance problems. To prevent this from happening, first degrease and wash the top plate and the underside very well. A steam cleaning machine and proper degreasing agents can be used to get rid of the grease that has formed in and around the lockjaw, throat, and pivot points. Smooth operation of your fifth wheel, even under the most extreme cold, will be secured with this step.
To start, use an aerosol cleaner to clean the retractable release handle located at the area where the plate extends to the pins. This spot often collects dirt and grease, which together form a heavy barrier that blocks the smooth movement of the fifth wheel. By cleaning it, you will be making the release mechanism work perfectly, even at times when you most need it. Inspect the entire part and the areas of the fifth wheel for damaged or missing pieces. In case you find any problems, replace them with original parts so as not to compromise the quality and performance of your fifth wheel.
Winter months call for lubrication as the most important way to keep your fifth wheel in a good working order. Apply a penetrating oil like and then lubricate the top plate pivot points, the slide plungers in their respective housings, the slide track, and the center pivot post where the pivot arm rotates. This action will keep all moving parts free from freezing or seizing, allowing a smooth operation of the fifth wheel even at very cold temperatures.
In addition, check the lock to make sure it is completely closed and functioning properly. A defective lock can cause very serious safety problems while driving. Lithium-based grease with an EP (extreme pressure) additive should be applied to the contact surface of the trailer and fifth wheel. This grease is able to bear very adverse conditions and will thus provide full protection for your fifth wheel during the winter months.
One of the most important tasks is cleaning the slide track and engagement rack, plungers, and plunger housings. Apply a shop steam cleaning device and proper degreasing products to thoroughly clean the release mechanism of any grease build-up. This will guarantee that the pivot arm can rotate without any resistance, eliminating the chance of any problem caused by frozen or stuck components.
Checking The Air Supply System
It is also very important, before winter starts, to check the air supply system and do any repairs and maintenance that are required. To avoid freezing, dump all the water from the air tanks. Check that all air tanks’ lanyards are secured and that the air drier cartridge has not exceeded three years of use. Make sure that the air dryer heating element is functioning well, and purge the top plate and slider air release cylinder lines of all moisture. These measures will ensure the uninterrupted operation of your air supply system even during the coldest season.
Apart from the fifth-wheel winterization, it is a must to get ready your truck’s other parts for the brutal winter conditions. You might want to consider having the battery and electrical systems checked as well as performing any required maintenance. A check of the fuel filter and water separator is also a good idea to ensure that everything is working properly. Start using fuel additives so that the fuel will not get solid (gel-like) in low temperatures.
The cooling system should be inspected for necessary repairs, and your windshield prepared with the installation of new wipers or wiper fluid if needed. Tires will have to go through a thorough inspection for tread depth and air pressure, and thus be determined if they can be used during winter driving. A well-stocked emergency tool kit should accompany you to lessen the burden of any unforeseen situations on the road.
Choose Birmingham Mobile Semi Repair
Winterizing the fifth wheel of your semi truck is a very important step in assuring that your activities are not interrupted during the winter season. If any of these checks and preventive maintenance recommendations are followed, you will be able to face the weather with confidence. We at Birmingham Mobile Semi Repair know how important it is to keep your equipment in good shape and are ready to provide you with heavy-duty repair services anywhere and anytime. Therefore, if you require help with winterizing your fifth wheel or any other repairs, make sure to reach out to us at (307) 922-1966. We are Birmingham Mobile Semi Repair, your reliable partner on the road.
