Fontaine International has issued an advisory to warn customers about potential hazards from using non-genuine components, specifically the movable locking jaw and wedge, on their Fontaine No-Slack line of fifth wheels.

Multiple fleets have reported failures of non-genuine replacement parts installed in Fontaine No-Slack fifth wheels, resulting in dropped trailers. All of the failures were caused by the non-genuine part's locking wedge stud falling out.

While the genuine Fontaine locking wedge and stud are forged as a single piece, studs on the failed non-genuine parts were just glued in. Tests performed by an independent laboratory found that the aftermarket parts were also 25 percent softer than genuine Fontaine parts, resulting in premature wear.

The cost difference between the Genuine Fontaine kit (part number KIT-RPR-6000L) and the non-genuine version is about $20.

Fontaine advises that in addition to creating a potentially dangerous situation, using non-genuine components on its fifth wheels voids the manufacturer's warranty, transferring all liability to the component seller and end-user.

Genuine Fontaine No-Slack parts are easily identified. They have "Fontaine" and the model number forged into the jaw and wedge. They are sold in small brown boxes imprinted "Genuine Fontaine Parts."

"In some cases, customers did not realize they had been sold non-genuine parts," says Roger Crawford, president of Fontaine Parts Connection. "We suggest that parts managers and technicians take a look at all parts before installing them, to confirm that they are genuine."

More info: https://www.fifthwheel.com/