Tug test is not a check for connection, it is a brake check

Stop, cause 90% of the time if your gonna loose one. Its in that first turn. Check straight on. At a angle is were law of motion takes over.

Its why I prefer Holland. Check jaws on hookup. After that all day, check handle and adjustment rod. Both in, good to go. Did not drop trailer so no concern for a high hook.

 

I unhook from my trailer 5 times a day often. I always visually check before i go. I’ve had 2 times I would have lost my trailer if I wouldn’t have.

 

Yup, I look too everytime. I had one in winter I backed under and didn’t bump it hard enough but heard the handle click. Looked at the jaws and they were open but tight enough for a tug test to fool you. Handle was in also. Dirt, grim, and cold did it. I’m sure dirt and grim can do it at any temperature. Ever since that day I visually check it and back into my trailer firmly not these soft hooks like I see others do cause they don’t like feeling the bump when backing into it.

Had a co worker come from Salt Lake City got about 30 min from Denver the back box came off on the interstate at 65mph. Luckily it was in the dead of the night. Said he checked it. Did a tug test and handle was in.
I figured it was same thing happened to me but he didn’t catch it.

 

Lost count of the times I started to pull forward, then had to set the brakes, take off my seatbelt, just to go check. I never leave without looking. Something I'm paranoid about.

Jack of shame is one thing, but I don't feel like fixing all my trailer connections, and I REALLY don't feel like killing some guy's wife and kids.

 

I get under and look WITH A FLASHLIGHT every single time. My locking jaw has a shiny rub spot on it. If I see that spot......I know I'm good. I see guys back up, hook up the lines, raise the gear and go. They are right there and don't take the extra 5 SECONDS to check the jaws. I don't get it.

 

What is the lesson in this video? The world is full of as holes. Always check your kingpin before you move your truck. I started the habit during my training almost 5 years ago. It is just automatic for me now. Also, When you park, set your trailer brakes, pull forward to put tension on the jaws, then set your tractor brakes.

 

When your greasing the 5th wheel take a putty knife and scrape off the old grease let's you inspect the area better and keeps it cleaner

 

Always do a visual of 5th wheel jaws. Tug test is not correct and certainly not infallible.