B&W Patriot 5th Wheel Hitch Jaws Will Not Disengage From King Pin  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Hey Donna, thanks for reaching out. What you’re describing sounds like the jaws are still bound against the king pin, not necessarily a broken release handle. On the B&W Patriot 18K, moving the handle to the open position removes the cam that locks the jaws together, but the jaws don’t necessarily spring open on their own. B&W specifically notes that pressure on the jaws can keep them looking closed even with the handle released.

I’d chock the trailer wheels, lower the landing gear, and raise the trailer just enough to take the pin weight off the hitch without lifting the truck excessively. Put the Patriot handle fully into the open position and pin it open, then pull the truck forward slowly. The jaws are designed to open as the king pin pulls out once the pressure is relieved. If it still refuses to release, stop there and inspect the jaw/cam mechanism for debris, lack of lubrication, or damage.

One other thing I'd check is whether the trailer and truck are sitting at an angle or under fore/aft pressure. A little tension from the trailer pushing or pulling against the truck can put a surprising amount of bind on that king pin.

What 5th wheel do you have?

expert reply by: Jesse M

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