Two times in two weeks when I have gone to hook to a trailer I realized that my jaws were already locked. I can't figure out why my jaws would be locked if I am bobtail? I tried searching all over the internet to figure out a cause but haven't been able to find anything.
Anything to be concerned about?
Fifth wheel jaws locking on their own?
Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by Canadianhauler21, Nov 1, 2021.
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For an example, I recently purchased a new top plate from Fleet Pride for $799.99mjd4277 and Canadianhauler21 Thank this. -
Depending on the brand it may be possible for a high pin to close the jaw.
How far did you bobtail?
How smoothe were the roads?
Mechanical things wear out it might be worn enough that a good bit of rough bobtail might bounce it closed.
Looks like a re-build/replacement should be done now.mjd4277, tscottme, spindrift and 1 other person Thank this. -
Out of adjustment most likely. Had one that would do that when I was a newbie the shop fixed it. Didn't bother to pay attention to how because new guy.
Canadianhauler21 Thanks this. -
How far are you bobtailing? I’ve had mine be closed after bobtailing about 90 miles round trip to the shop on fairly rough roads.
Rideandrepair and Canadianhauler21 Thank this. -
Mine does that sometimes, after running over rough ground.
Sometimes happens when I'm about to pull out from under a trailer, drop the air, and it will pop shut enough to snag the kingpin. My cure is a bungie from the handle hooked on the fender to keep it released until I get out from under.Rideandrepair and Canadianhauler21 Thank this. -
I'm driving a 2021 and that's a usual accourance for me, I bobtail home often so I know before hooking I need to pull it open
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Thanks to everyone who replied.Rideandrepair Thanks this. -
I hate those fifth wheels with jaws.
I have one with a triangle shaped bar that goes across to lock the kingpin in. They are for heavier hauling in general. A better fifth wheel.Rideandrepair and wis bang Thank this. -
1972 Chem Leaman got new Macks, first time using Imron paint. ASF 5th wheels, jaw drops down. One driver took a load of cement around 100 miles, unloads part and backs up to reach the other silo. hit the brakes and the trailer slid off...all kinds of nerdy guys with pocket protectors and a guy in coveralls with a big bar spend the afternoon out in the yard with that unit. They were from Mack and blamed the paint...
Speed_Drums and Rideandrepair Thank this.
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