Which statement about coupling safety is true?

Which statement about coupling safety is true?

• A. The fifth wheel jaws should be in the locked position before coupling
• B. The fifth wheel should be higher than the semi-trailer before making the connection
• C. Chocks are not required during coupling
• D. The tractor should be in reverse gear during coupling

Answer: (A)

The safety goal in coupling is to secure the kingpin with the fifth wheel jaws before you back under the trailer. When the jaws are locked, the kingpin is held firmly in place, so the connection cannot slip out as you seat the trailer or begin to move. This precludes a dangerous decoupling that could occur if the kingpin were to slip or the jaws weren’t engaged. The correct approach is to visually confirm the locking mechanism is fully engaged and, if possible, gently pull the tractor forward to ensure the connection stays tight. To support this secure hookup, keep the fifth wheel height appropriate so the kingpin sits cleanly in the throat, preventing misalignment. Chock the trailer wheels to prevent any movement during the coupling process, and set the tractor’s parking brake. Do not attempt to couple with the tractor in reverse; neutrality or park is the safer position while making the connection.

The safety goal in coupling is to secure the kingpin with the fifth wheel jaws before you back under the trailer. When the jaws are locked, the kingpin is held firmly in place, so the connection cannot slip out as you seat the trailer or begin to move. This precludes a dangerous decoupling that could occur if the kingpin were to slip or the jaws weren’t engaged. The correct approach is to visually confirm the locking mechanism is fully engaged and, if possible, gently pull the tractor forward to ensure the connection stays tight.

To support this secure hookup, keep the fifth wheel height appropriate so the kingpin sits cleanly in the throat, preventing misalignment. Chock the trailer wheels to prevent any movement during the coupling process, and set the tractor’s parking brake. Do not attempt to couple with the tractor in reverse; neutrality or park is the safer position while making the connection.