Electronically controlled fluid release fifth wheel mechanism.

摘要

A controlled fluid release fifth wheel apparatus having a first control (86) in the tractor cab (74) and a second control (110) outside the cab, in series with each other, and functionally located in series between a power source (104) and a power actuator (60) at the fifth wheel hitch. Both the inside and outside controls must be properly actuated in series for the power actuator to operate to release the hitch. A timer (94) is actuated by the first control to set a short time period during which the second control can be actuated. A trailer brake line air pressure sensor (98) in series with the first and second controls prevents operation of the actuator until the trailer brake line is unpressurised such that the brakes on the trailer are locked. <IMAGE>