What should you do if the locking jaws do not close after backing under?

• A.Force the release handle with a hammer and drive
• B.Back harder next time to slam it shut
• C.Pull clear safely, inspect the jaws, kingpin, and height, and correct the cause before trying again
• D.Tow the trailer with safety chains only

Why

Jaws that will not close are reporting a problem such as dirt, damage, wrong height, or a bent kingpin. Forcing or slamming the connection risks a false lock that can fail on the road.

Manual topic: Combination Vehicles - Coupling · From the Combination Vehicles practice bank (CV-032).

Practice this subject as a full test

More Fifth Wheel & Coupling Steps questions

• Before backing under a trailer, what should you first check about the trailer's height?
• What is the correct way to approach a trailer when starting to couple?
• Just before the fifth wheel contacts the trailer apron, what should you do?
• Why should you back very slowly for the last part of coupling?
• When you first back under and hear the fifth wheel lock, what is the next safety check?