Patent ID: 8286986
Filing Date: 2012-10-16
Classification: B60D

Abstract:
1. A gooseneck coupler comprising: an outer tube telescopically moveable relative to an inner tube along an axis, wherein said inner tube is secured to a base member; a locking member pivotally secured to said base member, wherein at least one of said locking member and said base member include a first locking pin aperture; a locking assembly comprising a handle and a locking pin, wherein said locking assembly is located adjacent said inner tube and said locking pin is insertable into said first locking pin aperture; a support bracket assembly secured to said inner tube, wherein said support bracket assembly includes a stop limiting telescopic movement between said inner and outer tubes and a spacer that laterally spaces said locking pin from said inner tube; and wherein said stop prevents said outer tube from telescopingly moving along said axis below said stop during a dynamic collapse of said outer tube relative to said inner tube.