XA-17ALP
Top Plate
SAF-Holland

This part forms the upper bearing surface of the fifth wheel, distributing locomotive load from the kingpin across the mating plate and minimizing localized wear. The top plate acts as the primary interface between the towing vehicle’s hitch mechanism and the trailer, ensuring precise alignment, smooth articulation, and predictable locking during coupling operations. Its geometry and surface finish are engineered to resist galling and wear under repeated mating events, with cross-hatched or cross-lapped finishes guiding kingspin movement for steady engagement. In the SAF-Holland ecosystem, this top plate belongs to the 42763 category, which houses fifth wheel components, indicating compatibility with numerous base plates and locking assemblies across different model years. VMRS 059-001-001 identifies its role in the top-plate area of the maintenance data, helping technicians source the correct replacement and track service history. Practical applications include long-haul, regional, and vocational trucking where dependable kingpin alignment and load transfer are essential for safety and fuel economy. When replacing, ensure seal integrity, inspect mounting hardware, and confirm that the mating top plate matches the retrofittable pattern for the specific fifth wheel model. Safety notices in associated details should be observed during handling.