Patent ID: 6957823
Filing Date: 2005-10-25
Classification: B62D

Abstract:
1. A hitch assembly for coupling a trailer to a tow vehicle: said hitch assembly comprising: (a) a frame for being attached to the tow vehicle, said frame having a fore end and an aft end; (b) a cradle assembly pivotally attached to said frame for pivotal fore and aft movement between a fore position and an aft position; (c) a hitch receiver mounted to said cradle assembly for being attached to the trailer; (d) fore spring means mounted to said cradle assembly and said fore end of said frame for controlling fore and aft movement of said cradle assembly; said fore spring means including a leaf spring having a first end, a second end, and a midportion; said midportion of said leaf spring being attached to said frame; (e) aft spring means mounted to said cradle assembly and said aft end of said frame for dampening fore and aft movement of said cradle assembly; (f) a first control rod construct attaching said first end of said leaf spring to said cradle assembly; and (g) a second control rod construct attaching said second end of said leaf spring to said cradle assembly.