4-4
TOPAZ
4.1.2 HOOKING UP/UNHOOKING
FIFTH WHEEL TRAILER
Follow this procedure when hooking the
fifth wheel trailer to the tow vehicle:
1. Check Tow Vehicle:
Check that the fifth wheel anchor is
in good condition without any bent,
cracked or broken components. Be
sure the anchor assembly fasteners
are tightened to their specified
torque. Clean wear plate if it is
covered with grit and apply a fresh
coat of grease. Be sure it can pivot
freely and the kingpin lock opens
and closes freely. Correct deficien-
cies if any are found before attach-
ing trailer.
2. Check Trailer:
Check that the fifth wheel hitch is in
good condition without any bent,
cracked or broken components.
Check that the kingpin and anchor
plate is not bent, cracked, chipped
or broken. Correct deficiencies if
any are found before attaching
trailer.
3. Review and follow the hitch manu-
facturers instructions.
4. Clear the area of bystanders espe-
cially small children.
5. Lower the rear tailgate of the tow
vehicle.
6. Slowly and carefully back the tow
vehicle up to the trailer. Stop as the
hitch nears the kingpin.
Fig. 4-4 FIFTH WHEEL ASSEMBLY
Fig. 4-5 HITCH ASSEMBLY
7. Use the trailer landing gear to raise or lower the
hitch as required for the kingpin position to
match the height of the fifth wheel lock assem-
bly.
8. Back the tow vehicle under the hitch until the
lock closes securely around the kingpin. Stop,
get out and close the kingpin lock.
9. Secure the lock with a mechanical retainer.
10. Raise landing gear and/or trailer stabilizer jacks
to transfer the hitch weight to the tow vehicle.
11. Check that the trailer and tow vehicle frames
are level. If the trailer frame is not level, adjust
the receiver and trailer pin box so the frame is
level.
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