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May a fifth wheel be considered as a coupling device when towing a semi-trailer in a driveaway-towaway operation?

Document
FMCSA-VEH-393.71-Q01.cm_.docx (22.7 KB)

Section § 393.71: Coupling devices and towing methods, driveaway-towaway operations.

Guidance Q&A

Question 1: May a fifth wheel be considered as a coupling device when towing a semi-trailer in a driveaway-towaway operation?

Guidance: Yes. Section 393.71(g) requires the use of a tow-bar or a saddle-mount. Since a saddle-mount performs the function of a conventional fifth wheel, the use of a fifth wheel is consistent with the requirements of this section.

Regulatory Topic: Use of fifth wheel when towing a trailer in driveaway-towaway operation
Effective Date: Sunday, May 4, 1997
Issued Date: Friday, April 4, 1997