Dennis Ray Zimmerman

US Patent:

6951332, Oct 4, 2005

Filed:

Jul 30, 2003

Appl. No.:

10/629752

Inventors:

Dennis R. Zimmerman - American Falls ID, US

International Classification:

B66F003/00

US Classification:

254131

Abstract:

A second class lever device provides additional mechanical advantage to pull the release handle in the fifth wheel hitch of a truck tractor and semi trailer combination. Such release handles can bind and become difficult to release due to misalignment between tractor and trailer, corrosion or lack of lubrication, etc. The present release lever includes an elongate fulcrum bar to bridge the gap between the tractor tires and the overlying side of the trailer, with a lever arm extending therefrom. A tension member extends from the lever arm, between the handle end and fulcrum end thereof. The lever arm telescopes for storage, with the fulcrum bar pivoting and sliding in its lever arm attachment to further facilitate compact storage. The tension member preferably comprises a chain, with a release handle engaging hook adjustably installed on the chain to adjust the effective length thereof as required.