Patent ID: 6161402
Filing Date: 2000-12-19
Classification: B62D,Y10T

Abstract:
A locking apparatus for locking a fifth wheel truck trailer type king pin extending down from the underside surface of the trailer, the king pin having an outer surface that includes a first section of a first larger diameter, a second section of a larger diameter and an annular recess extending circumferentially about the king pin between said first and second sections wherein said locking apparatus comprises:a) a locking housing that envelops the king pin with a housing envelope during use, said housing having a top surface, a bottom surface, and a sidewall that define said envelope, and a central, generally vertical socket that receives the king pin during use, said socket closely conforming to the outer surface of the king pin;b) a lateral passageway that extends through said housing and contained entirely within said housing envelope, said lateral passageway being open ended to communicate with said housing sidewall at spaced apart sidewall openings;c) wherein said lateral passageway communicates with the annular recess when said housing is assembled upon the king pin; andd) a removable locking member that occupies the lateral passageway and is contained within said envelope when said locking member is in the locking position, the locking member having first and second enlarged end portions that are positioned respectively at the spaced apart sidewall openings, and that substantially fill said passageway at both ends of the passageway, and when said locking member is in the locking position, said locking member including a central portion that removably connects the enlarged end portions and occupies a portion of the annular recess of the king pin.