Release Handle

I have a quick question! Our trailer yard is extremely tight with only a couple of inches in between each trailer, so in order to drop the trailer you have to drop the landing gear first then back into the spot. but my question is once your in your spot and only have to finish going backwards can i pull the release handle then? I usually just duck and waddle my way and pull it but i dont see another guys doing the same thing leading me to believe they pull the release handle before backing it all the way in? is this smart or should I just continue to back it all the way in and just duck under the trailers and pull it? Thanks

If you pull the handle and continue to back, you will most likely lock it back. Get a fifth wheel puller, that will give you extra reach.

Think about this: how do you hook into a trailer in the first place? By backing against the kingpin. So if you release the lockjaws first, then try to push the trailer back in, what might happen in the throat of the fifth wheel?

I have been in tight spaces like you describe, but only to get a trailer. I hooked on and pulled/scraped it out till I could reach the crank to lift the gear up. Sorry, I don't have an easy solution for you.

Exactly. Get a fifth wheel puller. I had the same issue until I got one. What I didn’t realize is you can pull that handle with the puller on an angle. So when your facing towards the trailer just grab on to it and it will pop out. You don’t have to be directly across from it. At least for the fifth wheel I have anyways. Some may be more stubborn than others.

If you pull the handle and continue to back, you will most likely lock it back. Get a fifth wheel puller, that will give you extra reach.

Continue doing it the way you normally would. Its possible the other guys have the 5th wheel release button inside the cab which is why you don't see them climbing down there. All of our trucks that are 2018 or newer are equipped with that function.

Thanks @Big Scott (CFI's biggest fan) @Errol V. @Bird-One @Rob T. Cant believe i never though about triggering the locking jaws doing what i was asking! feel like an idiot now lol... Thanks for the help though really appreciate it!

We have all been there. Just be safe.

Thanks @Big Scott (CFI's biggest fan) @Errol V. @Bird-One @Rob T. Cant believe i never though about triggering the locking jaws doing what i was asking! feel like an idiot now lol... Thanks for the help though really appreciate it!

I have a trick if you can dump the airbags on your tractor.

PackRat Yea I can dump the airbags

Thanks @Big Scott (CFI's biggest fan) @Errol V. @Bird-One @Rob T. Cant believe i never though about triggering the locking jaws doing what i was asking! feel like an idiot now lol... Thanks for the help though really appreciate it!

I have a trick if you can dump the airbags on your tractor.

I know its been awhile but figured id come back for anyone that sees this. You can indeed pull the release when you drop your trailer legs as long as it just a straight back it wont relock, you can then pull air lines and electric and pull off.

Think about this: how do you hook into a trailer in the first place? By backing against the kingpin. So if you release the lockjaws first, then try to push the trailer back in, what might happen in the throat of the fifth wheel?

I have been in tight spaces like you describe, but only to get a trailer. I hooked on and pulled/scraped it out till I could reach the crank to lift the gear up. Sorry, I don't have an easy solution for you.