Mini fifth wheel coupling
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SPECIALLY designed for smaller articulated vehicles with trailer gross weights up to 10.02 tonnes (10 tons) is the 22DA from Davies Magnet Works.
Davies says the mini fifthwheel is a logical replacement for current automatic coupling systems, which are limited to a gross trailer weight of 8.6 tonnes (8.5 tons).
However, Davies expects the lightweight coupling to be used by operators with small articulated outfits at under 7.5 tonnes (7.38 tons). Although the coupling weighs no more than an earlier 5.08 tonne (5-ton) model, it is said to offer inherent advantages of greater robustness and durability but it is 25 per cent cheaper.
Davies says the cost saving has been achieved by the use of parts in the 22DA that are already in quantity production for the full-sized TJ3 and TJ4 coupling ranges including the double-locking jaws, which encircle the whole kingpin of a trailer when closed.
The comparatively high weight rating of the mini Davies fifth-wheel, it is claimed, has been achieved by ribbing of the pressed-steel rubbing plate, and by using stronger mounting brackets.
Each bracket now consists of a one-piece strip of 10mm (3/sin) steel, braced underneath by welded channel sections. A bridging plate across the underside of the coupling links the brackets in the same manner as in full-sized installations. Davies Magnet Works, Thundridge, Ware, Herts.