King Pin Won't Latch

What are some tips and tricks this winter to deal with stubborn locking jaws?

Earlier today, I was trying to hook to a trailer, and for the life of me I could not get the jaws to lock all the way in. I kept getting that 2" shiny patch showing that it wasn't really latched. It was pretty irritating, but at least it was a good reminder to never trust a tug test alone. Always visually check your connection as well. I did the tug test when I backed up and everything seemed fine, but it was not on closer inspection.

It probably needs greased or adjusted, possibly both. If you have a grease gun, lube the jaw area, back under and release a trailer a few times to work it in. Depending in where you are and the temps, grease will stiffen up and almost fight against something like those locking jaws and keep them from closing properly.

What are some tips and tricks this winter to deal with stubborn locking jaws?

Earlier today, I was trying to hook to a trailer, and for the life of me I could not get the jaws to lock all the way in. I kept getting that 2" shiny patch showing that it wasn't really latched. It was pretty irritating, but at least it was a good reminder to never trust a tug test alone. Always visually check your connection as well. I did the tug test when I backed up and everything seemed fine, but it was not on closer inspection.

I have found this to happen quite often. First Robert is right could be out if adjustment, I have also found sometimes it's just the king pin and hitting it at a slight angle Will fix the problem it might just been worn or set a little funny. A 3 pound sledgehammer can work to persuade it that it wants to lock if it's just a grease problem.

One additional thought, check the height of your trailer, might be a bit too high.