

Our data shows that reducing the variance through proactive repairs helps keep the wear rate under control. Kingpin refurbishment is also the only process that makes proactive repairs cost-effective. The structural integrity of the original assembly is kept intact, and then there is a significant reduction in possible issues with the repair. With kingpin refurbishment, the kingpin is essentially overbuilt by adding additional material to the worn sections of the pin and then machined back to operational specifications. If the structural supports are not adequately replaced the kingpin can break loose and pull through the bolster plate creating a catastrophic incident. The height and squareness of the new pin need to be ensured for proper coupling. This creates a tight environment with limited access to reinstall the new kingpin and ensure that the replaced structure is securely mounted. Most shops will not remove the assembly from the trailer to repair it and choose to cut through the floor of the trailer to gain access to the structural supports. When you replace a kingpin, you must cut out the existing structural framework that ties the kingpin into the upper coupler assembly. King Pin Repair Performed Onsite Kingpin Refurbishment is a Non-Invasive Process

This allows the operator to get the rig back on the road with a minimum of downtime. The repair can be accomplished in just a couple of hours as opposed to two or more days. The equipment stays in operation and overall downtime is reduced. By identifying the trailers that have wear rates at your target repair range you can then schedule kingpin refurbishment for a specific time that does not impact your daily operations. Kingpin refurbishment requires less logistical support and the overall cost is inexpensive compared to replacement. Kingpin Refurbishment Requires Less Logistical Support

Proactive repairs also save revenue in other ways. Refurbishing the kingpin proactively not only saves on future maintenance to the fifth wheel but makes the rig safer to operate. Ideally, kingpins should be refurbished before the wear rate reaches the operational threshold of. These kingpins should be repaired or replaced immediately.īut which method is best? Kingpin Refurbishment and Canada would not meet current standards for acceptable tolerances. It’s estimated that, if inspected, about 30% of all kingpins currently in use on trailers in the U.S. Does doing a kingpin refurbishment make more sense than doing a replacement? Commercial fleets are focused on reducing the total cost of operation, so this is an important connection management issue.Įventually, the kingpin refurbishment or replacement will become necessary on all working rigs.
