5th Wheel release requires manual assistance

you need to ajust fifth wheel, what model is the fifth wheel?

 

Yep, more info is needed. What model do you have? There are all kinds of different 5th wheels and they all lock differently. Like Pablo said, it probably just needs an adjustment. I would have it looked at asap! Better safe than sorry!!!

 

Could just be a broken spring...there are a few in there...one of them holds the "dog" to lock the jaws open. Do you have it flipped over?

 

I had a similar problem with my 5th wheel, but was able to spot the problem very quickly. In my case, the 5th wheel wouldn't lock. It turned out to be a broken spring (they do rust and break over time) - the end where it hooks in a hole. I was able to bend a new hook using some pliers on the spring. When I got it home I bought a replacement for $5 - easy install too.

 

This truck is brand new. Chances are it is just tight and needs an adjustment. He should be going back for warranty. This is a safety critical problem and no dealer should be telling him there is a week waiting time!!!

 

As heavy said, WARRANTY!
Why get greasy and screw with it yourself, and risk breaking something in the meantime????????
It needs looked at ASAP.

Martin

 

Did you set the parking brake before pulling the valve? It won't uncouple unless the brake is set....you should hear it charge up with air and release.... you might have to set the brakes, dolly down, release the tractor brake and back against the trailer, reset the tractor parking brake, and pull the fifth wheel release air valve....it, the fifth wheel release, should "pop" out.

 

If you already know this, I apologize. When you initially stop to drop, set the trailer brakes then "nudge" back a bit more. Idea being to insure no tension on the jaws at all. If that doesn't work, then yeah, something is out of adjustment. Hope this helps.