Do *you* check your fifth wheel pin before pulling out?
Discussion in 'Road Stories' started by Countess, Nov 19, 2011.
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OF COURSE! Don't you???? I just imagine the trailer falling in the middle of the road as I drive, or somewhere as I pull out... ALWAYS CHECK. And after I hook up, I do a tug test twice. Twice... And I go under trailer and visually make sure locking jaws are around king pin. Be safe.
JustSonny and Southpaw7391 Thank this. -
Rocks Thanks this.
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Everytime, Tug Test
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I was dropping in Valdasta Ga a few months ago, and ran into a situation. After backing into the parking spot, I got out, pulled the pin, undid the hoses, and lowered the landing gear. Had about 33k in the box. I start to pull out, and something didn't feel right. As soon as I stop, the trailer falls off the fifth wheel, and onto the back of the frame.
When I lowered the landing gear, the passenger side didn't lower. Luckily my frame caught it, or else it would have rolled over onto the trailer in the next spot. Had the driver side landing gear been down anymore, I believe the trailer would have rolled. With the help of another driver was able to raise the driver side leg, fix the landing gear, and lower both sides together enough to get out from under the trailer. I got lucky, and learned a valuable lesson. Accidents like this, and others seem to happen when you're in a hurry. It pays to take your time, and be thorough.Last edited: Feb 20, 2012
JustSonny Thanks this. -
Picked up too many reefers and dry boxes that fell off the truck to not check my own. Pulling RGN and having ramps on my truck does come in handy. If I can pick up my RGN off the ground with 50-60k lbs on it, I can guarantee picking up any box trailer out here as a rule.
Mind, I have had a few funny looks when I drop or pick up my trailer, as I pull the kingpin out of the neck when I leave it anywhere
Martin -
I always get out and look to see if the king pin is in front of the lock. Never trust a tug test alone.......EVER!
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I dropped a flatbed with a 52k pound coil on it...in Alabama...in July...what do you think?
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No chances, no failures. Great advice!
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