A linkage mechanism for operative association between a fifth wheel of a drive vehcile and at least one pair of steerable rear wheels of a traler unit

摘要

A linkage mechanism for operative association between a fifth wheel of a drive vehicle and at least one pair of steerable rear wheels 16 of a trailer unit 10 is provided. The linkage mechanism permits limited rotary movement of the fifth wheel by the incorporation of compressive components 30, 32 at the connection between a roller cam 24 and a plate 14, when the at least one pair of steerable rear wheels 16 arc in a straight ahead position without steering movement of the at least one pair of steerable rear wheels 16. Retaining means 22, 40, 42, 44 may also be provided for retaining the at least one pair of steerable wheels 16 in the straight ahead position during the limited rotary movement of the fifth wheel.