Fifth wheel innovations from Fontaine
Recent additions to the Fontaine range of fifth wheel products includes the company’s new Dual Height Fifth Wheel, which allows both mega-trailers and conventional trailers to be towed using just one truck with a fast and simple height adjustment.
Said to be easy to install on most truck types (except construction), the Dual Height mounting option utilises the 3000 cast fifth wheel, tested to an imposed load (t) of 18 tons and D-value (kN) of 130kN.
The height-adjustable fifth wheel is available in three models from 167mm up to 367mm, and two height options are available with easy fast change.
Mechanism release is available in manual or air-operated configurations, and the product is certified to ECE R 55-01.
It also incorporates the TechLock safety system, specifically designed to reduce miscoupling.
“Our patented TechLock system’s mechanical jaw height sensor will not allow the fifth wheel to close if the kingpin enters at the incorrect height or position,” the company explained.
“Our profiled protective forging safeguards the TechLock mechanism from damage due to high-coupling errors. 360° kingpin surface contact extends the life of the kingpin and fifth wheel mechanism.”
Further recent developments include the Fontaine Fifth Wheel Green eye, which comprises a high quality extended handle, sensor and a single LED light which indicates when the fifth wheel is correctly closed and that the driver has carried out his checks by fitting the safety clip.
“The Green eye is available for safety conscious truck operators who specify Fontaine Fifth Wheels or is retrofittable to existing Fontaine Fifth Wheels,” added the company.
