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.
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.
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.
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.