Annual Maintanence For A Demco 18k Autoslide Hitch

Question:

I purchased my unit already installed, bought truck and 5th wheel combo. six years ago, it is starting to make noises when turning! Please advise maintenance and adjustments I should be doing annually. Are there parts that I should be lookin at to replace. I live in Keene Ontario Canada, are there dealers here to order parts from or to do the actual maintenance for me? Thanks,

asked by: Dean D

Expert Reply:

A good maintenance schedule will include an annual clean and re-lube of your fifth wheel hitch. Especially if it's been 6 years and you're getting the noise you describe, you will want to remove the side plates to see if you have any damage or wear that is visible to the gear system. If you don't see any wear of significance, they may just need a reapplication of grease. A quality lithium grease like # L11312 should be applied to the side guide plates.

You will also want to remove 1/2" bolt and washer from roller. Grease inner diameter of roller and reinstall with blue threadlocker # LT37643 and torque to spec on page 6 of your manual. Revisit the torque requirements and tighten all nuts and bolts.

Regarding dealers near you I would start with the manufacturers website that can have dealer locations near you listed.

expert reply by: Patrick R