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Post Info TOPIC: How did "fifth wheelers" derive their name ?
Roostertales


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How did "fifth wheelers" derive their name ?
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Hi everyone

Something that has puzzled me for a while is how did the above type rigs earn their name ?

Is there logic behind it ? if so could someone explain to a novice please.

Mike

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Pam


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Isn't it because the wheel in the back of your vehicle where the fifth wheeler joins on gives your vehicle a fifth wheel ( four plus the extra one) ?

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Basil Faulty


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I don't have a clue....But most 4 wheel vehicles have 6 wheels, 4 on the road, 1 spare and 1 to steer with...

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Gary and Kerry


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Try this link

http://s8.zetaboards.com/Campfire_Soapbox/topic/96349/1/


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elliemike


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 This term is derived from the old Wheelwright's (Waggon Builders) term for the fore carriage  turntable.
The  front wheel  unit of a horse drawn, four wheel Lorry, Dray, Wain, Truck, Float, Caravan, and so on, is mounted on a simple pair of flat iron rings in a mechanism known as "the Fifth Wheel".
Like a flat wheel, the rings slide on each other allowing the forcarriage wheel unit to pivot.    The forecarriage is attached to the  horse shafts and pivot as the horse/s turn.

Regards
Mike

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ibbo


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Once again we live and learn.Thank you for your information.confuseCheers Ibbo.

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