CURTMFG.COM
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PRODUCT SUPPORT: 877.287.8634
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16315-INS-RA
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03/31/2021
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ECN8138
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PAGE 4
COUPLING & LOCKING
Preparing the vehicle and trailer to couple
It is advised to perform trailer connections to the 5th wheel
on a firm and level surface. Multiple wheel chocks should
be used in front of and behind the trailer tires. Do not substitute
objects such as, but not limited to: stones, wood blocks, etc.
Open or remove the tailgate as required to safely back the
tow vehicle under the trailer and center the trailer kingpin with
the opening on the hitch head. Do not engage the kingpin into
5th wheel at this time. Stop the tow vehicle when the trailer's
skid plate is approximately 4" from the 5th wheel's skid plate.
Set automatic transmissions to park and activate
the emergency brake. Set manual transmissions
to neutral and activate the emergency brake.
Adjust the front trailer lifting jacks so the trailer's kingpin
skid plate is approximately 1/2" below the top surface of
the 5th wheel's skid plate lead-in ramp. See the diagram
below for proper height setup prior to coupling.
Note:
Trailer height setup is critical to allow the 5th wheel
jaws to engage the kingpin and lock properly. Never attempt
to lower the trailer's kingpin into the 5th wheel.
4"
1/2"
Locked Handle
GREEN indicator (circle)
Unlocked Handle
RED indicator (octagon)
Coupled Handle
YELLOW indicator (triangle)
Preparing the 5th wheel to couple
If the yellow indicator is visible, visually check that the jaws are open
as illustrated in the 'COUPLED HANDLE' diagram above. If the jaw's
are open and the handle is in the unlocked position, the 5th wheel is
ready to couple. Skip to the 'Coupling' section on next page.
If the green indicator is visible and the jaw's are closed, they must be
unlocked prior to use. The 'LOCKED HANDLE' diagram illustrates the
jaws and handle in the closed and locked position.
Remove the safety latch pin from the 5th wheel's handle. Open the
jaws by pulling handle out about 1/2" and then swinging it back
toward the front of the tow vehicle. The handle will latch in the
unlocked position and the yellow indicator will be visible from the tow
vehicle cab.
If the 5th wheel handle will not latch in the unlocked position, or the
red indicator is visible, go to the troubleshooting section to resolve the
issue before attempting to couple your trailer.
WARNING
Attempting to couple your 5th wheel in any configuration other then
the yellow couple position may result in damage to you trailer or 5th
wheel. Always ensure the jaws are open and unobstructed prior to
coupling to your trailer's kingpin.