As a DAF truck operator or fleet owner looking after an assembly of DAF trucks, you understand the importance of having vehicles that perform at their best and keep your business running smoothly. HGVs are the powerhouse of the logistics and transportation industry, so it is vital that every component, big or small, is working properly and isn’t damaged.

Components that often get overlooked are the palm couplings, or gladhand connectors. These are an indispensable part of the drivetrain of HGV trucks, serving as the link between the engine and the trailer’s air tank, otherwise known as an air reservoir. Two couplings are fitted to interlink and connect the hose where the pressurised air flows through to get to the trailer’s air tank for the braking system. The palm couplings interconnect and look like hands shaking, earning them the name ‘gladhands.’

There are a few signs that you may need a replacement palm coupling, which include:

• Air is escaping the coupling – you may be able to hear a hissing sound coming from it.
• The coupling has rusted a lot – this could hinder its ability to properly lock.
• The two couplings cannot interlock tightly enough.

Effective palm couplings can improve the performance of an air tank and exhaust system by reducing air leaks and ensuring a secure connection between components. This results in the maintenance of proper air pressure and flow, which leads to improved overall efficiency and minimises the risk of issues such as leaks or blockages that can impact performance. With a dependable seal provided by the palm couplings, the longevity of the air tank and other components within the exhaust system can be increased.

Another component that serves as a small yet key part of the truck’s steering and horsepower is the king pin. The king pin is a large metal pin that holds the weight of the truck on the axle and acts as a pivot point for the steering knuckle to rotate when the wheel oscillates. This component not only ensures the truck’s safety but also ensures steering efficiency, allowing for smoother travel, which reduces back pressure and results in lower exhaust gas pressure. A replacement for a kingpin will be obvious to the driver as they will feel a pull when steering. It is always good to properly lubricate the pin to reduce wear, but if a replacement is needed, there’s no need to worry—we stock kingpins, including those for the DAF brand as well.

Both the kingpin and palm coupling can work together in the truck’s powerful system to efficiently use the engine, therefore reducing overall exhaust gases produced—great news for your DAF exhaust!

Choosing high-quality and reliable components for your HGV trucks is essential, and that’s why the DAF palm couplings and DAF kingpins are an excellent choice. Although purchasing palm couplings and kingpins is a necessity for your truck to function safely and efficiently, you can be certain that DAF’s branded products will deliver this, with their long-lasting materials designed to withstand any environment. They are engineered to be durable and reliable, providing truck operators and fleet owners with peace of mind that they will last.

Purchase components to suit your DAF trucks today available on our site.