When it comes to hauling tens of thousands of pounds across long distances, there’s no room for error. The fifth-wheel connection between a tractor and trailer is critical—and now, thanks to Iowa-based Gear Head Lube, that vital connection can be lubricated with a soy-based grease pad that is clean, easy to use, and now gone international.
Photo by Joclyn Kuboushek | Iowa Soybean Association
As of May 2025, Gear Head Lube announced it is expanding its retail and international distribution. Now available in more than 50 retail outlets across the U.S. and Canada—including soon at major national truck stops—Gear Head Lube is increasing access to sustainable soy-based lubricants.
Globally, the company has launched Gear Head Europe and Gear Head Lube Brazil to serve European and South American markets. Testing is also underway in Australia and Japan, where the demand for cleaner, environmentally responsible fifth-wheel lubricants is on the rise. International groups like Huzells – Sweden, a leading supplier in the Swedish heavy vehicle aftermarket, are recognizing the performance and sustainability advantages of soy-based lubricants.
Unlike petroleum-based greases, which can stiffen in cold conditions or create a mess during application, Gear Head Lube’s patented fifth-wheel grease pads deliver consistent performance with a cleaner application. The pads are infused with non-toxic penetrants and lubricants that outperform petroleum products—and they meet the needs of today’s fleets striving to meet ESG goals.
Easy application, no mess, and improved safety make Gear Head’s pads a clear winner. They save time, money, and the environment—delivering high-value performance while supporting U.S. soybean farmers.
Photo by Joclyn Kuboushek | Iowa Soybean Association
Customer testimonials highlight the global impact:
“With a fleet around 70 trucks, we are always looking for smarter and more sustainable maintenance solutions. With Gear Head Lube Pads, we have reduced both environmental impact and the unnecessary mess from traditional grease. Our drivers understand how crucial a well-lubricated fifth wheel is, especially when facing the challenging driving conditions of Norwegian winter roads, and therefore appreciate the easy application. An excellent product for both the work environment and operational economy!”
— Tipp Transport AS
“When it comes to Gear Head Lube Pads, we can only say one thing – it’s smooth and no mess! Simple, clean, and exactly what we need to keep the fifth wheel in condition without unnecessary hassle.”
— C. Strids Transport AB
Farmers like Todd Hanten, who grows soybeans on 3,800 acres near Goodwin, S.D., are using the product themselves. “You just put two pads on the fifth-wheel plate and they disperse smoothly and evenly,” says Hanten, who also serves as a United Soybean Board Director.
“We are extremely pleased to see the overwhelming interest in our products, not only domestically but abroad,” said Todd Whiting, Director of Product Development. “Once our fifth-wheel grease pads are tested and adopted, fleets and owner/operators see tremendous value. And we’re proud that this innovation continues to support U.S. soybean farmers.”
With a patented design, reliable performance, non-toxic ingredients, and sustainable roots, Gear Head Lube’s soy-based grease pads are driving change—mile after mile, country after country. Whether it’s an 18-wheeler hauling livestock through Iowa or freight moving down a highway in Europe, Gear Head Lube is proving that U.S. soy can go the distance.
Gear Head Lube website: https://gearheadlube.com/
Gear Head Lube offers lubricants for all sorts of applications | Photo by Joclyn Kuboushek | Iowa Soybean Association