Patent ID: 6726179
Filing Date: 2004-04-27
Classification: B62D,Y10S

Abstract:
Hitch release means for releasing an overridden trailer king pin from a trapped position in front of a rearwardly inclined hitch plate on a truck tractor, wherein the hitch plate is positioned adjacent to a fixed position vehicle frame rail, the hitch release means comprising an elongated beam having a ramped front end that tapers to a narrow front edge, the front edge fitting under a downwardly inclined portion of the hitch plate between the vehicle frame rail and the hitch plate, the beam having sufficient height at a rear portion thereof that the beam holds the hitch plate in a generally horizontal position, where the king pin is released, when the front edge of the beam is wedged under the hitch plate and moved inwardly to an inserted position, the beam having a recess in a lower portion thereof that fits over the frame rail and holds the beam in place when the beam is in said inserted position.