IRONDALE, Ala. — Fifth wheel manufacturer, Fontaine International, says its grease-free fifth wheel can help fleets achieve their environmental goals.

The company says that as much as 100 million pounds of grease is washed off fifth wheel top plates every year, which often ends up polluting water after getting washed into storm water drains. Fontaine issued a release advising fleets to avoid over-greasing their fifth wheel top plates and to consider grease-free options, such as the company’s 7000CC Series Clean Connect product.

This option features high-strength plastic insert pads that reduce friction between the top plate surface and the trailer coupling plate so no grease is required, the company claims. Periodic greasing of the locking mechanism is still required, however.

“We are constantly exploring new and better ways to improve our customers’ experiences with Fontaine fifth wheels,” said Terry Mennen, Fontaine International vice-president of sales and marketing. “By drastically reducing the need for lubrication on many of our fifth wheel products, we are helping fleets save time and money, while reducing our overall environmental impact. And that is a positive step for everyone.”

For more information, visit www.fifthwheel.com or call 800-874-9780.