Fifth Wheel Repair Experts
The fifth wheel is the single most critical coupling component between tractor and trailer. A failed fifth wheel can result in trailer separation — one of the most dangerous events in commercial trucking. Lock jaw wear, pivot bushing deterioration, slide mechanism failure, and mounting hardware degradation all develop gradually and require systematic inspection.
CTR provides complete fifth wheel service — from routine lubrication and inspection to lock jaw replacement, pivot bushing service, slide mechanism repair, and complete fifth wheel replacement. We service all major brands including Holland, Fontaine, JOST, and SAF-Holland.
Located on Armentrout Drive directly off I-85 at Exit 58. All repairs backed by our 3-year, 36,000-mile warranty.
Safety-Critical
Fifth wheel failure can cause trailer separation. We treat every repair as safety-critical.
3-Year, 36K Warranty
Industry-leading warranty on all fifth wheel repairs. Parts and labor covered.
All Brands
Holland, Fontaine, JOST, SAF-Holland, plus all OEM-installed fifth wheels.
DOT Compliant
All repairs meet FMCSA Appendix G requirements for DOT compliance.
Complete Fifth Wheel Repair Services
From inspection to complete replacement. Click any service for details.
Comprehensive inspection of lock jaw engagement, bearing plate wear, pivot bushing condition, mounting bolt torque, slide mechanism function, and lubrication condition. Documented findings with wear measurements.
Warning Signs of Fifth Wheel Problems
Visible Gap at Lock Jaw
Daylight between lock jaw and king pin when coupled. Jaws not fully engaged. Immediate safety concern.
Sliding Fifth Wheel Slips
Slide pins don't engage or release unexpectedly. Fifth wheel could shift position under load.
Cracked Mounting Brackets
Structural damage compromising fifth wheel attachment to tractor frame. Immediate out-of-service.
Excessive Trailer Rocking
Trailer moves more than normal side-to-side or front-to-back. Bearing plate, pivot bushing, or mounting wear.
Unusual Noise During Turns
Grinding, popping, or clunking when tractor and trailer articulate. Dry or worn pivot bushings.
King Pin Wear Marks
Vertical scoring on the trailer king pin suggesting excessive movement in the fifth wheel jaws.
Fifth Wheel Repair Cost Guide
| Service | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Lubrication Service | $75–$150 |
| Lock Jaw Replacement | $500–$1,500 |
| Pivot Bushing Replacement | $500–$1,200 |
| Mounting Bolt Service | $200–$500 |
| Slide Mechanism Repair | $400–$1,200 |
| Bearing Plate Replacement | $800–$2,000+ |
| Complete Fifth Wheel Replacement | $2,500–$6,000+ |
Written estimates before any work begins. All repairs backed by 3-year, 36,000-mile warranty.
DOT Inspection Points
Lock Jaw Engagement
Jaws must fully encircle king pin with no visible gap
Secondary Lock
Safety latch must be functional and engaged
Mounting Integrity
Brackets crack-free, bolts present and tight
Bearing Plate
Not worn through or cracked
Pivot Mechanism
No excessive looseness or binding
Slide Mechanism
Pins fully engaged, locking mechanism holds
Understanding Your Fifth Wheel
The fifth wheel assembly consists of four primary systems: the mounting platform and bearing plate, the lock jaw coupling mechanism, the pivot and oscillation system, and the slide mechanism (if equipped). Each system has specific wear points and failure modes.
Mounting Platform & Bearing Plate
Hardened, greased surface the trailer coupler rests on. Wears around the king pin developing grooves.
Lock Jaw Mechanism
Safety-CriticalPrimary coupling — jaws close around king pin held by spring-loaded lock and safety latch. Worn jaws risk king pin release.
Pivot & Oscillation
Allows side-to-side tilt for uneven roads. Worn bushings cause excessive play and poor handling.
Sliding Fifth Wheel
Safety-CriticalRepositions to change weight distribution. Pins that don't fully engage are extremely dangerous.
Built for Heavy Duty
CTR's facility on Armentrout Drive has the equipment and bay space for complete fifth wheel service on all tractor configurations. We stock common replacement components for Holland, Fontaine, JOST, and SAF-Holland.
Fleet Fifth Wheel Programs
Systematic fifth wheel maintenance — inspection at every PM, documented condition reporting, wear trend tracking, and proactive replacement scheduling. Prevent sudden discoveries during DOT inspections.
(704) 786-0132
Fifth Wheel Repair Near You
CTR Heavy Duty — Concord
Directly off Interstate 85 at Exit 58. Easy truck access.
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