What does coupling mean in trucking?

The primary function of the coupling system in a tractor-trailer is to connect the tractor to the trailer, the power to the payload. The two key components in the coupling system are the fifth wheel and the trailer kingpin.

When inspecting the coupling check that the safety latch is?

Check that locking lever is in the “lock” position. Check that safety latch is in position over locking lever. (On some fifth wheels, the latch must be put in place by hand.) If the coupling is not right, do not drive the coupled unit; get it repaired.

What are the steps for coupling a trailer?

Coupling Tractor Semi-Trailers

1. STEP 1: Inspect Fifth Wheel. Check for damaged/missing parts.
2. STEP 2: Inspect Area and Chock Wheels.
3. STEP 3: Position Tractor.
4. STEP 4: Back Slowly.
5. STEP 5: Secure Tractor.
6. STEP 6: Check Trailer Height.
7. STEP 7: Connect Air Lines to Trailer.
8. STEP 8: Supply Air to Trailer.

When should your lorry coupling system be checked and lubricated?

Explanation: Fifth-wheel couplings need regular inspection and lubrication. This should be carried out either every 6000 miles (10 000 km) or monthly – whichever is the sooner.

What does Black stand for when coupling a trailer?

You may find it useful to memorise an acronym in order to remember the safe order. One such example is P-BLACK for uncoupling (remove number Plate and then engage parking Brake, lower Legs, disconnect Airlines, remove Clip and release Kingpin handle. You then use the reverse for coupling.

When checking the coupling system do you need?

The first 6 steps for coupling are these:

1. Inspect fifth-wheel. Check for damaged/missing parts.
2. Inspect area and chock wheels. Area around vehicle clear.
3. Position tractor.
4. Back slowly.
5. Secure tractor.
6. Check trailer height.
7. Connect air lines to trailer.
8. Supply air to the trailer.

How do you check to make sure trailer height is correct before coupling?

How do you check to make sure trailer height is correct before coupling? It must be slightly lower than the center of the fifth wheel, so trailer is raised slightly when dolly is pushed under.

What do you look for when checking the coupling system?

Coupling

• Inspect fifth-wheel. Check for damaged/missing parts.
• Inspect area and chock wheels. Area around vehicle clear.
• Position tractor. Put the tractor directly in front of trailer.
• Back slowly.
• Secure tractor.
• Check trailer height.
• Connect air lines to trailer.
• Supply air to the trailer.

What do you check when making a visual check of coupling?

Explanation When performing a visual check of coupling devices, you should make sure there is no space between the upper and lower fifth wheel. Ensure that the locking jaws are securely closed around the kingpin.

When should your lorry coupling system fifth wheel be checked and lubricated Click here to listen to the voice over of this text?

You should make a point of checking them when you stop for a break. The fifth wheel requires regular lubrication and inspection. This should be carried out either monthly or every 10,000 km whichever comes first.