Tractor will not detach from trailer

Keep pulling the release handle until you strain all the muscles in your shoulder and neck. Thats what I usually do.

 

Yikes!

 

wouldnt stand there and hold the handle while someone else drives off .... bungee works fine or even a rope would be better .... have pulled out as far as I can answer lock a pair of vise grips on handle

 

Look down on your 5th wheel by the skid plate. There should be a bolt sticking out of the side like Frankenstein’s neck. Whack that a few times with a hammer and try again. Works when they are stuck open.

 

Oh good.

That means it's working right.

//snarky.

 

Just because something is longer does not always change the fulcrum point. Plus these are usually crap. I bent mine the first use. I can literally give myself a very uncomfortable reach around with it.

 

The narrow opening leading to the unlocking mechanism is a tease; I can see where I need to go but it is a very tight squeeze. So a long, skinny, (but not too skinny) tool allows me to get the job done with ease. I used to have to grease myself up before I found this wonderful tool. Now, it's all business, no mess.
I have a few extras around the house if you ever need to borrow one:



The extra peg on the end is the one you want. You'll figure out what that extra peg is for with enough practice.

 

I know my company’s 5th wheels have to be pulled up and then out. Try that?