Troubleshooting Jaws Not Unlocking on B&W Companion Slider Gooseneck-to-5th-Wheel Trailer Hitch

Question:

I put the jacks down on my 5th wheel and raised it until the hitch had a little daylight between the two. I went to release the jaws and the handle had no pressure on it. With the handle open the jaws were still closed. I tried lowering the camper until the daylight was gone. Then I tried holding the camper brakes and backed up to release the pressure, the handle still had no pressure on it. With the handle not, I didn’t know if I could pull it back to the place I bought it from. I’ve only owned the companion system since January 2021. Any help would be great. Thanks

asked by: Scott M

Expert Reply:

I spoke with my contact at B&W and it sounds like you have a bind. If you have a lube plate that is thick on your kingpin, or maybe too high holding pressure on the jaws, your jaws may not physically open even though the handle is in the open position. The only thing keeping the jaws closed in this case would be the binding pressure. As long as you pin the hitch open in the back, the handle will be held in the open/unlocked position. This will allow you to drive out from under the 5th wheel. If you find that this does not work, feel free to reach out and I will attempt to help you troubleshoot further.

expert reply by: Robin H