NHTSA recall 15E066000 · Equipment
Trailer hitches › Fifth wheel assembly
The defect
Fontaine Fifth Wheel Company (Fontaine) is recalling certain Ultra LT Fifth Wheel connectors, part number SLTPL4000, manufactured July 29, 2009 to May 27, 2013. Over time, improper coupling techniques may result in cumulative damage to the fifth wheel and its locking mechanism, which in turn may result in the locking mechanism failing to operate or to properly engage.
The risk
If the fifth wheel and locking mechanism are sufficiently damaged, the locking mechanism may fail to operate as intended and the trailer may unexpectedly detach from the tractor, increasing the risk of a crash.
The remedy
Fontaine will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fifth wheel with an Ultra NT model fifth wheel, free of charge. The recall began on November 2, 2015. Owners may contact Fontaine customer service at 1-844-597-7393 or ultraltrecall@fifthwheel.com.