Abstract A cover plate adapted to fit over the upper surface of a fifth wheel and substantially conform to the shape of the fifth wheel. Interposed between the upper surface of the fifth wheel and the lower surface of the cover plate is a low friction material. The cover plate and low friction material are allowed to rotate about the king pin center through an angle of approximately 5* each side of center. When turns are negotiated which require greater than 5* of rotation the trailer pivoting continues between the upper surface of the cover plate and the trailer bed plate; minimal or no lubrication is required between this interface. A pivot center is provided to attach the cover plate to the fifth wheel and hold it secure when a trailer is not attached.
In combination, a fifth wheel for a trailer truck having a fifth wheel plate, a liner of low friction material riding on the fifth wheel plate, and a cover plate assembled over said liner, said cover plate being pivotally mounted on said fifth wheel plate.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
45 words
In combination, a fifth wheel for a trailer truck having a fifth wheel plate, a liner of low friction material riding on the fifth wheel plate, and a cover plate assembled over said liner, said cover plate being pivotally mounted on said fifth wheel plate.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
23 words
The combination according to claim 1 wherein stop means are provided limiting the rotational movement of said pivotally mounted liner and cover plate.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
26 words
The combination according to claim 2 wherein said stops are positioned to limit the rotational movement of said cover plate to about 5* from centered position.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
89 words
In combination: a fifth wheel for a trailer truck including a fifth wheel plate having a flat load bearing surface and rearwardly extending fingers together defining a forwardly converging tapered guideway connecting into a king pin receiver; a liner of low friction material pivotally riding on said load bearing surface; a cover plate assembled on said liner substantially conforming to the shape of said fifth wheel plate and including rearwardly extending finger portions; and stop means operatively associated with one of said plates limiting the relative rotatIonal movement thereof.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
89 words
In combination: a fifth wheel for a trailer truck including a fifth wheel plate having a flat load bearing surface and rearwardly extending fingers together defining a forwardly converging tapered guideway connecting into a king pin receiver; a liner of low friction material pivotally riding on said load bearing surface; a cover plate assembled on said liner substantially conforming to the shape of said fifth wheel plate and including rearwardly extending finger portions; and stop means operatively associated with one of said plates limiting the relative rotatIonal movement thereof.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
35 words
The combination according to claim 4 wherein said stop means comprise downwardly extending flanges on at least the finger portions of said cover plate positioned to stop against the fingers of said fifth wheel plate.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
26 words
The combination according to claim 5 wherein said finger portions are positioned to limit the rotational movement of said cover to about 5* from centered position.