forgetting to lowering landing gear...

As the Fonz would say, Exacamundo! The key to a secure connection is the condition of the 5th wheel and backing under correctly. Then a quick look to make sure there is no space between the 5th wheel and trailer!

 

The other step that has been left out, but most are probably doing is to ensure the 5th wheel is touching against the trailer plate completely. In fact, when you get under the trailer, you want the truck air bags to push the trailer up a bit so there is a good connection.

Another point is that 5th wheels are not maintenance-free. The manual of your particular 5th wheel will have the instructions to maintaining and even repairing/rebuilding your 5th wheel.

 

Check out posts #56 #58 and #61!

 

What about the last sentence in the same paragraph I wrote?

 

My father taught me what to look for in regard to a 5th wheel. I have discovered if you follow some simple rules there is no need to bend the heck out of those inner locking mechanism parts. I don't ever remember having any 5th wheel failures. Give them a good going over every chance you get and keep that stuff greased. No point in putting 5 pounds of grease on it either.

 

It's all good, I just responded to your comment saying that had been overlooked. I did not overlook it. I might have used a different term, but it has the same meaning.

 

I used to think that way until I almost dropped a trailer while pulling forward. I’d rather check as much as possible than to drop the trailer, damaging the cargo and the trailer. Also, if I remember correctly, looking at the jaws is mentioned in my 5th wheel manual. It takes 10 seconds or less to check this.

 

This is what I started doing years ago after I started using the plastic slip disks on all our stuff. It’s anal ocd I know but it helps with an easier visual. All jaws are yellow and king pins get a coat of orange. Every 4 months the grease gets cleaned off. They get paint and inspection and fresh grease.

 

Yes, sounds great. the only problem is the jaws can "LOOK" to be securely locked, but once you start out it can release. This is why I and a lot of other people preach all the time, INSPECT that sucker bobtail. Make sure there are no bent places. Looking at it from the side or the rear looking up into the locking mechanism is not a 100% sure guarantee. Don't lull yourself into a false sense of security here.