Coupling System

Question 1

Air & Electric Connectors

Answer 1

Listen for leaks. Check that air hoses and electrical lines are not cut, chaffed, spliced, or worn (steel braid should not be shown)
Make sure lines are not tangled, pinched or dragging against tractor parts. Air connectors are sealed and in good condition. Trailer plug is FIRMLY SEATED AND LOCKED IN PLACE.

Question 2

Glad hands

Answer 2

Are locked in place, free of damage or air leaks

Question 3

Mounting bolts

Answer 3

Look for loose or missing brackets, clamps, bolts, or nuts. Both the fifth wheel and the slide mounting must be solidly attached. Check for loose or missing mounting bolts, broken welds and make sure they are solidly attached in place

Question 4

Platform

Answer 4

Check for cracks or breaks in the platform structure which supports the fifth wheel skid plate

Question 5

Locking Jaws (LOOK and SHOW)

Answer 5

fifth wheel gap and check the locking jaws are fully closed around the kingpin. Locking mechanism is securely locked

Question 6

Release arm (fifth wheel)

Answer 6

If equipped- make sure the release arm is in the engaged position and safety latch is in place

Question 7

Fifth wheel skid plate

Answer 7

Check for proper lubrication and that the 5th wheel skid plate is securely mounted to the platform and that the bolts and pins are secure and not missing.

Question 8

Kingpin

Answer 8

Locking jaws holds kingpin in place and the kingpin is not bent or damaged

Check for kingpin lock.

Question 9

Apron

Answer 9

Visible part of the apron is not bent, cracked, or broken

Question 10

Gap

Answer 10

Check that the trailer is lying flat on the fifth wheel skid with no visible gap

Question 11

Sliding 5th wheel locking pins

Answer 11

Loose or missing pins in the slide mechanism of the 5th wheel. If air powered, check for leaks
Make sure locking pins are fully engaged.
Check that the 5th wheel is positioned properly so that the tractor frame will clear the landing gear during turns.