Troubleshooting Difficult to Release Fifth Wheel Jaws

Question:

Hello, I have been working on my truck and can not figure out why I can not get the locking jaws on the 5th wheel to release. Can it be the lack of air pressure, since I have an air leak? What are your thoughts on what I can do? Thanks.

asked by: Norris M

Expert Reply:

Typically fifth wheel jaws won't release if there is a lot of horizontal force pulling the king pin out of the hitch head or in any other way bound up. Since you said air pressure I am assuming you have an air ride pin box that has deflated due to a leak. If the pin box is now all the way deflated and at a different angle that could potentially cause the jaws to be stubborn. I'd try inflating the bag as much as you can and then trying to release the jaws. It would be wise to fix the leak before towing again too.

expert reply by: Jameson C