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A better understanding of the plates locking and un-locking operation can be obtained by viewing the working parts from
the underside of the plate (#3601 plate pictured below). The Fifth Wheel Plate {A} can be removed and turned over to
view the workings of the mechanism. When operating the Fifth Wheel Plate manually, please be aware that the Lock
Jaw Assembly has more movement capability when there is not a king pin present to center the assembly. Refer to the
illustrations below for part identification.
1. To open the locking mechanism, lift and pull the Release Handle out until the Lock Catch engages the Lock Jaw
Assembly (see illustrations on the opposite page).
2. As the trailer king pin moves into the plate, it will contact the Lock Lever, forcing the Lock Catch to disengage the Lock
Jaw Assembly, allowing the Lock Bar Spring to close the Lock Jaw Assembly behind the King Pin. The King Pin must
be fully engaged in the plate slot or the Lock Jaw Assembly will not seat properly, and the Handle Catch would not
then engage the inner side wall of the plate. To be certain that the Lock Jaw Assembly has closed fully, attempt to pull
the Release Handle without first lifting it.
NOTE:
Please note that when lifting the handle to clear the side wall of the plate with the handle catch, it will be
necessary to pull with some force to begin the Lock Jaw rotation. Merely lifting the Release Handle will
not cause the Handle to “pop” open and rotate the Lock Jaw to the open position.
3. To discourage theft or pranksters, place a padlock through the obround hole
above
the Release Handle (see
Illustration below; not available for #2900 and #2300 SuperGlide).
FIFTH WHEEL PLATE OPERATION
OPEN -- UNLOCKED POSITION
Lock Jaw Assembly
Handle Catch
CLOSED -- LOCKED POSITION
Lock Catch
Lock Bar
Lock Bar Spring
Lock Lever
