What is one consequence of neglecting the maintenance of your fifth wheel plate?

Neglecting the maintenance of your fifth wheel plate can lead to potential steering issues. The fifth wheel plate serves as a critical connection point between the tractor and the trailer, allowing for articulation during turns. If the plate is not properly maintained, you may experience excessive play or binding between the tractor and trailer, affecting steering responsiveness and control. This can make maneuvering difficult and increase the risk of accidents, especially in tight or complex driving situations.

While concerns like increased fuel consumption or reduced braking power may stem from other issues in a combination vehicle, the fifth wheel plate’s maintenance directly impacts how well the trailer follows the tractor during turns, making steering issues the primary consequence of neglect in this area.