A recent press release centred on the US developed LocJaw which has recently become available in Australia, states that the product is suitable for use with Jost fifth wheels. Jost Australia has quickly responded to this by stating that it does not recommend or endorse the product under any circumstances and that the use of this product on any of its fifth wheels will void warranties.
The LocJaw is described as “a simple and cost effective safety locking mechanism that can be fitted to the turntable of a prime mover or to tandem axle A trailers in B-double applications”. It is said to provide a secondary point of restraint in the event of king pin failure.
But Managing Director of Jost Australia, Ed Crowther stated, “Jost Australia has had no access to tests which have been carried out on the strength, dimensions or surface finish of the LocJaw. Tampering with foot pins in our fifth wheels will automatically void warranty and potentially interfere with insurance claims in the event of a mishap. This system may also interfere with the articulation of the fifth wheel, particularly those fitted with low feet.”
Ed explained that Jost Australia’s main concern is that the use of the LocJaw results in the fifth wheel being modified. He added that the company also fears that operators might assume the LocJaw has been approved by Jost Australia, which it has not.
He concluded, “Jost is very aware of its position as a leading manufacturer and supplier of truck and trailer equipment both here in Australia and around the world and takes any potential safety issues very seriously. We have advised DOTARS and the Federal Office of Road Safety of our concerns and also advised that we are not associated with this product in any way.”
Jost Australia has requested any references to the Jost name be removed from all literature pertaining to the LocJaw.?
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