Method and apparatus for connecting a towed vehicle to a towing vehicle

摘要

An apparatus (110) is provided for connecting a towed vehicle (111) to a towing vehicle that includes a support structure (216) with a self-steer axle system (290) connected to the support structure. The self-steer axle system has a reversible axle caster angle changing mechanism. A fifth wheel receiver (120) for connecting the support structure to a towed vehicle is mounted on the support structure. Additionally a locking mechanism (125) that is operable to prevent rotation of the trailer with respect to the support structure is provided. A method for connecting a towed vehicle (111) to a towing vehicle to allow backing up of the towed vehicle is disclosed. The method includes the step (820) of attaching a towed vehicle to a fifth wheel receiver of a dolly having a self-steering axle system with reversible caster angle. Another step (810) of the method includes attaching the dolly to a towing vehicle. Yet another step (830) of the method includes preventing rotation of the trailer with respect to the dolly. Another step (840) includes selectively reversing the caster angle of the self-steer axle system to back up the towed vehicle.