CUSHIONED RETRACTABLE HITCH FOR RAILWAY CARS

摘要

A trailer hitch (1) for use on a railcar (C) is movable between an erect position and a retracted position. A first strut (9) has its lower end pivotally mounted to the railcar. A second strut (25) has its lower end movable in a horizontal direction relative to the railcar. A hitch head (3) is carried on the upper ends of the struts for engaging a trailer loaded on the railcar to hold it in place. A cushioning unit (49) is carried by the second strut to cushion the trailer from impacts. A latching mechanism (57) automatically latches the hitch in its erect position and maintains it there. The latching mechanism also allows for a safe release of the hitch so it can be retracted.