TheaterFire

Drove 30 miles no problem, stopped at a truck stop to use the bathroom for 10 minutes, and making a right hand turn onto the highway ramp my trailer came off the 5th wheel.

Posted by BossHogg1984@reddit | Truckers | View on Reddit | 354 comments

Drove 30 miles no problem, stopped at a truck stop to use the bathroom for 10 minutes, and making a right hand turn onto the highway ramp my trailer came off the 5th wheel.
I did the tug test and checked the lock when I picked it up, could it have gotten messed with while I was inside, or did I miss something?

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354 Comments

ghkilla805@reddit

Im not a trucker, but I’ve seen so many posts on my dash that talk about having to worry about making sure people haven’t unlatched your truck even after gas station stops, is it really something that’s all that common, where there’s all these truckers willing to do what seems like attempted murder on the same level as cutting someone’s brake lines or something?
View on Reddit #51027735

Toybasher@reddit

Not a trucker either. AFAIK it's not super common but it does happen. I think it's just the relative ease and anonymity of doing it. You don't need tools, only takes a good yank, etc. Paranoia and OCD about checking your truck is not a bad thing. I have read you can put tension by using your trailer brakes, driving forward a bit, (similar to a tug test to verify your connection) then setting your truck's parking brake, and this supposedly makes it so you can't pull the handle.
View on Reddit #59408060

SpecialSeparate6028@reddit

Is this a Holland Fifth Wheel? I did that and thankfully I didn't smash anything. I have one truck I drive that has a Holland. And it didn't lock worth a shit without me slamming the bitch in all Winter. That's the only possible explanation I can think of unless you got pulled by a shit bag.
View on Reddit #51003877

_N4AP@reddit

I'm not a fan of the Holland split jaws either. Covered someone's route a few months ago and his truck had one, had to couple three times times to get the thing to lock, not sure if it was just iced up under the plate or what. I do like that they've got the adjustment up front so you can double check with a glance by just making sure the washer is flat against the front of the wheel, but I've never felt 100% comfortable with them not having a solid bar of steel behind the pin.
View on Reddit #51007140

SpecialSeparate6028@reddit

Yeah I'm super paranoid with her because of that. Sadly I'm taking her to another terminal because I hit a deer and destroyed her hood and a bunch of front bodywork.
View on Reddit #51721785

IllAssumption9484@reddit

How hard is it to just look at 5th wheel B4 you climb up in the truck after a stop 🤷🤦🤔
View on Reddit #51405381

12InchPickle@reddit

Make it a habit to always check anytime you leave your truck and trailer unattended. Someone definitely pulled your release.
View on Reddit #50996100

Orlando1701@reddit

Tug test. There’s a reason it’s drilled into us.
View on Reddit #50997476

LonleyWolf420@reddit

Yup I do a tug test before rolling out basically anywhere
View on Reddit #50998430

ShortCurlies@reddit

Tug test isn't enough, you have to physically look at the jaws and the release arm and on Holland fifth wheels there is a bolt that sticks out the front so a third indicator to check.
View on Reddit #51304777

ThePlagueFriend@reddit

Post-tug clarity.
View on Reddit #51277544

CrusaderKhan@reddit

Remember to do a tug test BEFORE you roll up the landing gear lmao and get up under there anyway
View on Reddit #51117364

Hak_Man@reddit

Make sure you do one in your bunk before bedtime too 😉
View on Reddit #51059781

LonleyWolf420@reddit

Every night.. how do you think I sleep w/o doing it?
View on Reddit #51076902

palebd@reddit

Not a problem for us OTR. We're quite accustomed to tugging.
View on Reddit #51039556

felixthecat59@reddit

Hell, or I do a tug testbeven at anyone of our yards.
View on Reddit #51035199

Noturwrstnitemare@reddit

Roll out!! Me and my homies!!
View on Reddit #50999346

Mindes13@reddit

You're supposed to say "TRANSFORM" first
View on Reddit #51030893

Noturwrstnitemare@reddit

No, the song from Ludicrous!
View on Reddit #51032196

Tribalflounder@reddit

With the top down!
View on Reddit #51033828

shadowmib@reddit

I back towards.l the trailer before releasing the trailer brakes so if someone did pull it, that will relatch it
View on Reddit #51024145

turtlepowr89@reddit

There is absolutely no guarantee that this would work. Your best bet is setting the trailer brake, tugging forward and setting the tractor brake, if you’re going to stop anywhere. The tension on the locking mechanism won’t allow for anyone to pull the release handle. But of course you should still always check it before you hit the road again.
View on Reddit #51027783

Jazzlike-Economy-287@reddit

Umm that is using ur noggin ... good habit
View on Reddit #51030772

dorkwingduck@reddit

A tug test means nothing. visually check that it's locked in.
View on Reddit #51036958

Recentlyforty1@reddit

Your right. It could be high hooked and if you go over a bump it will pop off. Got to visually check it.
View on Reddit #51195697

Puzzleheaded-Bag-121@reddit

Or put load on your fifth wheel any time you stop.
View on Reddit #51098380

LucHighwalker@reddit

Yeah, instructors at my school drilled it into us hard and gave us lots of horror stories. Now I always do a tug test before moving. Even if I was in the cab the entire time. Even when I pulled off to go pee and there was no one around for miles. I'm sure it'll save my ass one of these days.
View on Reddit #51056581

thatcluckingdinosaur@reddit

my driving trainer looked like me as i was crazy whenever i did a tug test and said its not necessary. fucking idiots
View on Reddit #51052387

BizSecurity@reddit

I always kind of laugh about this advice because you’d still disconnect a trailer if you just tugged but definitely tests and checks.
View on Reddit #51049367

No-Distribution1672@reddit

I do a tug test twice when coupling and still get under and look. This is a major fear of mine.
View on Reddit #51019714

Metaltom1970@reddit

Yes, I always get under and check the jaws
View on Reddit #51041300

Able2c@reddit

Did you know that in Europe they don't do a tug test and rely on visual check? I got asked not to do the tug test anymore when I started driving in Europe.
View on Reddit #51040540

Slosky22@reddit

The tug test is not a 100 percent reliable test. I’ve seen guys tug trailers and then make a turn slow in the trailer fall off the only correct weighted verifies to visually get under your trailer and look.
View on Reddit #51035080

A1sauce100@reddit

Whats involved in the tug test ?
View on Reddit #51010714

TwinSpinner@reddit

Keep your trailer brakes pulled and locked, put it in great and push the gas a bit like you're trying to set off to fix the trailer a tug. If your trailer is locked in, your tractor won't be going anywhere, since it's hooked to the trailer with locked up tires. If you're _not_ locked in, however, your truck will start rolling forward without the trailer. Put it in reverse, back up until the kingpin makes that satisfying click sound, then get out and _make damn sure_ its locked in this time. _Then,_ let go of all the brakes and continue driving
View on Reddit #51018754

Alive-Worldliness-27@reddit

Yep I set the trailer brakes on any truck stop other than my job’s yards.
View on Reddit #51025912

Orlando1701@reddit

A picture of your mom and some lube. [No, it’s a test to make sure the trailer is fully seated and connected to the tractor.](https://youtu.be/AOpvlCCmccY?si=Qs7RRmxrspSDWVsp)
View on Reddit #51015922

Fuzzy1598@reddit

From your first part I was regretting hitting that link till the video popped up haha
View on Reddit #51019026

Orlando1701@reddit

Nah. Dirty joke than try to honestly answer their question. This is the way.
View on Reddit #51019211

Wicell@reddit

Vigorous pulling of a certain appendage and a syringe full steroids
View on Reddit #51015309

Fuzzy1598@reddit

Also little bit of spit for lubricant.
View on Reddit #51018940

youtheotube2@reddit

Leave the trailer brakes set, landing gear down, and then drive forward. If the kingpin is locked in you’ll either drag the trailer or bog down the truck, but if the kingpin isn’t locked then the trailer will drop back onto the landing gear
View on Reddit #51018834

kannin92@reddit

I tug test, back into it again, tug again then do a figure S as best I can depending on the lot. Can never be sure enough when you haul fuel.
View on Reddit #51015230

Riyeko@reddit

I don't even feel comfortable leaving dock doors or drop yards when I hear the click of the locking jaws, or even when I'm sitting up front and can see everything.
View on Reddit #50997657

mxracer888@reddit

First thing I do before even making any connections at all to the trailer is hear the click of the jaws and immediately tug test before even getting out of the truck
View on Reddit #51007110

A_Dash_of_Time@reddit

Yup. This is the way.
View on Reddit #51015229

antpile11@reddit

OP said they did the tug test.
View on Reddit #50999633

DapperJackal96@reddit

Yeah when they first left, but not after they stopped
View on Reddit #51000160

Ur_Fav_Step-Redditor@reddit

That’s why I tug tf out of it every single time I start driving! Even if I’m just in the bunk
View on Reddit #51002836

DapperJackal96@reddit

Exactly
View on Reddit #51008062

antpile11@reddit

Shit I never learned how to read. You right
View on Reddit #51001349

Defiant_Network_3069@reddit

That's what I do when I leave my rig. Check my 5th wheel and tug teat. Especially at a truck stop. There are some real bitter people out there.
View on Reddit #50997984

TheBuddha777@reddit

I just look at the latch handle. Takes half a second.
View on Reddit #51014059

Puzzleheaded-Bag-121@reddit

Also takes half a second to pre load your fifth wheel locking the handle in place
View on Reddit #51098496

charonco@reddit

I've added both reversing and pulling to my tug test. My company uses manual tandem releases and apparently somebody must have released my tandems one night and the typical tug test appeared fine, but then I got 20 miles down the road and had to go on my brakes and had a tandem slide. My company monitors for tandem slides and I got in trouble. The only thing I can figure out is that the pins hadn't released when I did my tug test.
View on Reddit #51017840

mxracer888@reddit

I also tug teat any time I can
View on Reddit #51007294

TruckerBiscuit@reddit

Bessie gets ornery if you don't.
View on Reddit #51007429

polarjunkie@reddit

Yeah tug test whenever you stop.
View on Reddit #51086560

Rag3QuitnRob3rtGame@reddit

Exactly why I always tug when I lose sight of my trailer. Be it looking at my phone, going for a shit, or taking a nap. If I set my brakes, it's getting a solid tug with me looking in my mirror
View on Reddit #51059627

mxracer888@reddit

Hey OP, this is the answer and out of curiosity... Were you parked on the fuel island for that 10 mins?
View on Reddit #51006964

zenit31@reddit

If it's directly at the pump then that's wrong but there's nothing wrong with pulling forward and going inside quickly. Either way does him being parked there justify someone possibly ruining his life/career? No. Deal with it and move to a different pump if you can.
View on Reddit #51054095

mxracer888@reddit

Ya, I should clarify...I don't condone the act by any means. But I know I've seen plenty of people on social media say "just release their kingpin" when there's a post complaining about people parking on the fuel island
View on Reddit #51055473

PShubbs91@reddit

Yesterday in Laredo, TX I almost dropped a trailer at my company's terminal. I hooked to it, hooked up my lines, raised the landing gear, even checked the 5th wheel. Pulled forward a couple inches and felt the truck slipping out from under the trailer. Think god I caught it before I dropped it. I think what happened is when I looked at the kingpin, I saw the ring the locking jaw goes around and thought I was looking at the locking jaw.
View on Reddit #51031149

UhOhAllWillyNilly@reddit

That’s why you gotta use a light to make sure.
View on Reddit #51036112

PShubbs91@reddit

Yeah for sure. I usually do but it was 100° out and I was being lazy about it because I just wanted to get in the truck and stay in it with the AC cranked up.
View on Reddit #51037680

ID_Poobaru@reddit

The amount of people that don’t tug test in the Amazon yards is nuts
View on Reddit #51033481

Frenchie1001@reddit

That is absolutely cooked that happens
View on Reddit #51027009

denonemc@reddit

A few comments down someone said to lock trailer brakes tugtest then truck brakes to have pressure on jaws. Other than that is there a fifthwheel release lock that exists like a steering wheel lock type product?
View on Reddit #51025980

FlyNuff@reddit

I hate humanity
View on Reddit #51019544

xxenoscionxx@reddit

I always backup against the pin then set my brake . Such a petty shitty move to put lives and jobs at risk doing that.
View on Reddit #51018667

CrustyJameson@reddit

I agree. Ppl are assholes to do such things.
View on Reddit #51018517

daixso@reddit

Anytime my pin side of my truck is out of sight I tug test I've also started checking my sliding tandems someone pulled my tandems when I was inside a truck stop I hit the brakes on the interstate hold a boom pulled over and saw my tandems were all the way back
View on Reddit #51001588

cCueBasE@reddit

I think most trailers it this point lock the pins as so as you press the trailer supply so that can’t happen.
View on Reddit #51013424

daixso@reddit

My company still orders manual pull handles but yeah the ones that have the air slide if you don’t set the trailer brakes they can’t pop the pins in
View on Reddit #51013862

cCueBasE@reddit

Wow I haven’t seen a manual release tandem in over 10 years.
View on Reddit #51015049

daixso@reddit

My company pinches pennies in weird places
View on Reddit #51018084

GoosieRS@reddit

Dude got kicked out our yard cause he pulled a yard dogs pin out while he was opening the doors. ( he was using one of our normal volvo to shunt with cause his normal truck was in garage ). a other guy noticed from a far and ran to the yard dog to twll him saving him an accident Idk why people do that
View on Reddit #51007104

SOROKAMOKA@reddit

Especially if you work for a big box company, since the chances of a disgruntled former employee are higher
View on Reddit #51005330

SmoothBoreMoose50@reddit

Someone pulled your pin while you were in the shitter. Did you park on the pull up line at the fuel island?
View on Reddit #51196201

Im_GumbyDammit@reddit

Don’t trust anyone. Always cover you ass. Just as you lock your doors when you go in a truck stop, inspect your equipment after you come out. Because infortunately there are a lot of unhappy fuckers out there who will fuck you over because they suck.
View on Reddit #51195985

J-Rag-@reddit

Whenever you leave the truck unattended, always visually check the lock jaws before driving again.
View on Reddit #51184142

Away-Reaction6061@reddit

Somebody definitely got your pin pulled. Trick for this to not happen again. Pull your trailer breaks, then tug against it in low gear and while doing a slight tug pull the truck breaks. It makes it near impossible to pull the pin.
View on Reddit #51173346

Spiritual_Sherbet_48@reddit

You’ll have that on them bigger jobs
View on Reddit #51170231

VenomousP0ison@reddit

Always check your 5th wheel every time you stop especially at a truck stop I’m a first year and I never leave without checking I don’t trust other assholes in this industry only myself
View on Reddit #51151135

BigRubio@reddit

The kingpin puller strikes again.
View on Reddit #51150291

Substantial_Steak704@reddit

Someone played a bad joke on you. Doing your 360 could have saved you from that
View on Reddit #51146478

Substantial_Steak704@reddit

Someone played a bad joke on you. Doing your 360 could have saved you from that
View on Reddit #51146474

forgotmyreddit1991@reddit

That’s why you should never pull someone’s release. It puts everyone’s life in danger. If you’re just needing to “make a point” put a quarter on the trailer break glad hand. That’ll teach em !! Also if you’re mad enough to mess with someone’s equipment, it’s time to park the truck and find another career. Stay patient and positive.
View on Reddit #51113557

dhabs@reddit

Amen
View on Reddit #51144149

Then_Examination_393@reddit

I’m wondering if he pulled straight to the pump and blocked it at the truck stop. There aren’t any random people just pulling 5th wheels. I’ve been driving since 2016 and it’s never happened to me. But I’m courteous and don’t block pumps or start any other kind of shit at a truck stop. There is more to this story than is being told.
View on Reddit #51141336

Kenny6578@reddit

Did you piss someone off? Maybe someone has been playing stupid games and pulled your 5th wheel lever?
View on Reddit #50996467

Artistic_Alfalfa_860@reddit

Exactly what I was thinking. Chances are, OP might be a moth breather and somewhat oblivious to the world around him. I have regular fantasy of pulling someone's release.
View on Reddit #50997831

OsBaculum@reddit

>I have regular fantasy of pulling someone's release. That makes you the moth breather (sic) the only ones you'll actually hurt doing that are uninvolved drivers nearby.
View on Reddit #51004963

Aromatic-Scratch3481@reddit

Moth breather?
View on Reddit #51059789

OsBaculum@reddit

That's what the deleted comment I replied to said. That's why I put (sic) after it.
View on Reddit #51140845

NEXLogistixAutoTrans@reddit

I’m sure they meant mouth breather.
View on Reddit #51063331

Erafir@reddit

Chances are you are fucking crazy and expect the world to bend to you. You are not the main character it's not your responsibility to correct other people. It's your responsibility to keep yourself in check.
View on Reddit #51035770

Meatz916@reddit

Why don't you just confront the person? Handle your problems with your target without endangering everyone else.
View on Reddit #51022919

YippyKayYay@reddit

You have regular fantasies of harming people? Why dude Seek help, there’s enough shit out there already, don’t make more of a mess
View on Reddit #51021446

Azzacura@reddit

I've seen the aftermath of a 7-car pileup caused by a trailer being dropped while coming out of a tunnel. The driver took his own life, and the investigation later determined there was a very big chance that someone else pulled his release. Do you really want to be responsible for ruining people's lives, and maybe even ending lives, just to prove to the world that your dick really is so small you can't even slam it between a door?
View on Reddit #51019828

cyrax99@reddit

That's a great way to kill innocent people, if that was your goal.
View on Reddit #51014836

mooretec@reddit

willing to bet the ten minutes was in a fuel lane. I've seen people do that to other drivers. . . it's become a habit that I ALWAYS check Blue, Red, Green, Kingpin release, then unlock my door and climb in.
View on Reddit #51136147

Sinceapril88@reddit

I seen someone do this as I was exiting a parking lot they came in and the truck went one way and the trailer just kept going the other way it's pretty scary to see the whole trailer come apart thankfully no one was hurt
View on Reddit #51135928

sMacPL@reddit

Make it impossible for them to pull it by enabling your trailer brakes only, pull up like a tug test then set your truck brakes. They won't be able to pull anything since the kingpin is butted right up to the lock
View on Reddit #50999741

Late-Recognition5587@reddit

I do this regularly. Best option.
View on Reddit #51134778

Ok_Judgment3871@reddit

Well that and i know in newer trucks like one in the picture, you cant pull the pin if air is still supplied to the trailer. At least on the 2018 lt and 22 579 i drove thats how it worked, how i kept some peace of mind going into the store.
View on Reddit #51129311

PnuttButtaGuts@reddit

Or just pull your own 5th wheel handle whenever you stop. They can’t pull your handle if you do it yourself.
View on Reddit #51050725

BossHogg1984@reddit (OP)

I’m just gonna duct tape mouse traps to it from now on
View on Reddit #51052088

Desurfaced@reddit

Razor blades lol
View on Reddit #51125651

Cotton_EJ@reddit

I always, always tug test if I've parked my truck where someone can have tampered with it. It's quick and can save a ton of money!
View on Reddit #51111198

Dismal-Exit6940@reddit

Came to say this. Lifesaving tip right here.
View on Reddit #51016511

whytawhy@reddit

Sucks that people suck so much.
View on Reddit #51039547

randomlemon9192@reddit

I can’t think of a reason someone would do this other than malice. Am I missing a motive?
View on Reddit #51051646

RumbleDumblee@reddit

A lot of the time it’s other truckers that are mad at you for one reason or another. I know the biggest reason is people are mad you took time at the fuel island
View on Reddit #51090863

DumatRising@reddit

Same reason people troll in video games, or said horrendous shit in old internet chat rooms. Cause they can, and they don't care how it effects other people.
View on Reddit #51074337

ModeEnvironmentalNod@reddit

I rode with my friend a couple of times. He was paranoid about this because it happened to his partner one time, but luckily the guy got caught in the act. Some people aren't people, they're just scum.
View on Reddit #51053762

avm95@reddit

That's a great tip just tried it but what do you mean by butted right up the lock ?
View on Reddit #51020068

FartyOldeBob@reddit

He means set your trailer brakes, then put the tractor in gear and pull forward (until the tractor stops moving) then set your tractor brakes. By doing this the kingpin is up against the locking jaws of the fifth wheel and is (almost) impossible to release by hand. If your fifth wheel is difficult to release, you would do the opposite (when dropping your trailer).
View on Reddit #51086939

Pushfastr@reddit

Tension. More than any person could pull by hand
View on Reddit #51027905

Eternal_Moose@reddit

I park like this everywhere I stop. Even my gated terminal. It's become just another routine at this point.
View on Reddit #51087124

Early-Zebra6540@reddit

Great idea!!
View on Reddit #51072677

Bigbaghead_223@reddit

A fact that other truck drivers would do this is crazy. You not only putting the driver at risk but making the roads unsafe for fellow travelers
View on Reddit #51064551

TruckinTuba@reddit

Trailer brakes are not for parking
View on Reddit #51014661

sMacPL@reddit

Yes I know, setting trailer brakes in winter is a no no. But in the case of op 10 min would not have froze them. If your parking for the night I still do this procedure but then release trailer brakes
View on Reddit #51060475

TruckinTuba@reddit

I've had brakes freeze in 10 mins 😂 plus I don't like waiting 5 mins for trailer suspension every time I stop
View on Reddit #51060798

StandForAChange@reddit

Did you read his whole comment or just the 1st sentence? Damn
View on Reddit #51016499

FrostbyteCoffee@reddit

Not even the full first sentence either, just the beginning of it lol
View on Reddit #51017346

TruckinTuba@reddit

I read the whole comment, so many drivers set their trailer brakes (in addition to tractor brakes) which you are not supposed to do. For many reasons, one of which ive experienced a lot is brakes freezing in winter
View on Reddit #51023885

FrostbyteCoffee@reddit

Ahh, so what you’re saying is you only set tractor brakes but keep air supplied to the trailer brakes when parking?
View on Reddit #51049674

TruckinTuba@reddit

Yes, as you're supposed to
View on Reddit #51049944

FrostbyteCoffee@reddit

Ah, gotcha. Makes sense! As a yard jockey, we do things a little differently, so I wasn’t sure
View on Reddit #51050290

TruckinTuba@reddit

That makes sense, in AK, we also wait 10-15 mins after parking before dropping our trailers to keep brakes from freezing
View on Reddit #51050988

xLost_Illusionsx@reddit

I do this and check my release arm. I'm a local driver but it can happen to anyone. I'd rather be safe than sorry
View on Reddit #51058065

colusaboy@reddit

Came here to make sure this is posted. This + Tug test, either one works and if you forget one... the other will cover you. Dude lived my nightmare. I was always terrified I'd lose my trailer like that.
View on Reddit #51036244

TimT40k@reddit

It’s not the worse I’ve seen in person. The landing gear doesn’t appear to be inside the trailer lol
View on Reddit #51047527

Mcgill1cutty@reddit

Also, whenever you leave your truck, even for a minute. Throw it in reverse and keep the trailer brakes on. Back up against the kingpin, will reset the latch if anyone did pull it.
View on Reddit #51044455

ram2016eric@reddit

I actually learned this by accident lol
View on Reddit #51042379

Sweet-Rain8976@reddit

lol that’s what you think
View on Reddit #51039989

Pickoneforeme@reddit

Yep!
View on Reddit #51008718

avm95@reddit

That's a great tip just tried it but what do you mean by butted right up the lock ?
View on Reddit #51020060

RebelTvshka@reddit

Meanin, it's pulling against the locking arm. Preventing it from releasing without immense force.
View on Reddit #51024512

avm95@reddit

That's a great tip just tried it but what do you mean by butted right up the lock ?
View on Reddit #51020053

TwoPsychological7097@reddit

Looks like someone didn’t like the way you pulled up and pulled a trick rooski on you
View on Reddit #51131662

Stunning_East_2275@reddit

😭😭😭😂😂🤣🤣
View on Reddit #51131416

DoctorKoolAid1981@reddit

Always put eyes on your fifth wheel, anytime you leave your truck, and when you return to it, before you start rolling.
View on Reddit #51123314

XiangJiang@reddit

Can’t this just be avoided by doing a tug test each time before you drive?
View on Reddit #51115067

Cheekoteh@reddit

Always always use flashlight to check that the king pin is secured “correctly” behind the fifth wheel latch and it is in the grove of the pin not over or under it. If it is not, the tub test will not let you know there is something is wrong until it is. check air hoses are connected and not reversed, the release handle is not pulled. Make sure fifth wheel is always greased and not dry. Tug test both trailer and tractor.
View on Reddit #51114430

Wild_Resource_7622@reddit

Tug test before you leave ALWAYS 🙄🙄🙄🙄
View on Reddit #51110497

Immediate_Ladder2188@reddit

This is my worst nightmare. Hopefully you have the ability to drop your rear end. It’ll make this much easier
View on Reddit #51109538

Fit-Hearing2669@reddit

You can say ok dad at the end I can already hear it.. Not saying you didn’t do this it’s just good habit. Always walk around the truck every stop before you hop back in to drive again. Ck things out like the obvious like tires and leaks where fluid goes, lift-gate is secure I’m sure you know all that and already heard that part from from 100s of people. Make sure nobody has pulled your release while you were away. But importantly I always like to keep an eye on the king pin going under the trailer to have a peak at the pin and lock bar w flashlight. Seen a bar not go all the way across before and have a gap before leaving a DC. Trailer pulled fine from the yard /warehouse over to the boys in trailer maintenance facility there were like shrugging their shoulders.Was like hey this needs to be figured out or I’m going to get an offload from the warehouse into a different trailer bc I’m not pulling this down the road. It may might just be grease build up that causes this on the 5th wheel but knew it didn’t look right. Anyway stuff like your pic can give me nightmares as I’m sure it does a lot of OTR drivers. Now someone can say thanks dad lol
View on Reddit #51109300

Chaddie_D@reddit

Somebody probably pulled the pin, most likely because you parked where you shouldn't have.
View on Reddit #51105546

BossHogg1984@reddit (OP)

You mean in the parking lot?
View on Reddit #51105616

Chaddie_D@reddit

Maybe. People are dicks. If you weren't in a spot, blocking a lane, blocking the fuel island, blocking the cat scale, etc, someone might just get you. Somebody also might just have something against Dollar General, couldn't really tell you.
View on Reddit #51108443

TonytheTrucker@reddit

You pissed someone off
View on Reddit #51104574

K_WOLF84@reddit

Probably some one opened it, it's something you need to look for every time you go away from the truck, just take a look around. Stay safe 💪🏻🇵🇹
View on Reddit #51070777

Kahlas@reddit

Aslo smart to check your glad hands and 7 way each time you stop also.
View on Reddit #51101920

Kahlas@reddit

Tug test tell you absolutely nothing. It's fine to use as a test on if you're not hooked before you get out and check your 5th wheel jaws. I'm a fleet diesel tech and more than once I've spotted a driver who was high hooked at the fuel island. They always insisted they did their tug test and it was fine. Which is true. You can high hook and tug on it on the flat all day and not come unhooked. Get out with a flashlight and check the jaws from directly behind the truck under the trailer. In this case though my guess is you parked someplace that annoyed another driver and they pulled your 5th wheel release. Which is why when I used to drive semis part of my post brief stop checks was to look at my gland hands and 7 way connection and look at my 5th wheel release handle before getting back in the cab. Just make it a habit and you will do it without even thinking about it and it only takes 2-3 seconds.
View on Reddit #51101534

RedSkyInvestments@reddit

Just asking did you take your pee break at the fuel island
View on Reddit #51096508

Firm-Smell8238@reddit

Trailer says AYYYYYY as in wtf going on😂😂
View on Reddit #51090679

West-Raccoon-2043@reddit

Somebody pulled your fifth wheel
View on Reddit #51090054

aMentalGymnast@reddit

Someone had a little too much fireball.
View on Reddit #51089807

chevx@reddit

Fammnn someone did the ole pull and dip on you were you blocking a fuel station
View on Reddit #51082569

B4ummm@reddit

No offense because I’m guilty of it too, but did you physically LQQK at the underside of the fifth wheel to make SURE it was securely locked around the kingpin? I hooked one once and pull tested it and it didn’t move so I assumed it was locked and didn’t check it. As I slowly pulled out later the trailer then came loose. I stopped prior to it coming clean off and was able to rehook. 🤦‍♂️ After that near miss I now always EVERY hook physically LQQK and see if the kingpin is locked in. Great idea the other driver said about pulling tight against the kingpin at stops to keep anyone from pulling it out. EVERY day is a learning day.
View on Reddit #51082346

SidheDreaming@reddit

Okay, honest question as a newish driver. I was told to never trust a tug test and always look. Am I doing it wrong? I, also, always look anytime I'm away from my truck. I check when I go into receiving, rest room, even dispatch at my yard.
View on Reddit #51075835

SuperTruckerTom@reddit

Use a flashlight and look. Wear something to protect your head. Or squat really.low. I turn the tractor at an angle to make viewing the kingpin easier. Never raise your legs all the way up until visually verified the kingpin lock.
View on Reddit #51077152

Ahsogood@reddit

People are jerks out there and intentionally will do this as pranks
View on Reddit #51075806

Early-Zebra6540@reddit

Crazy man. Hate that this happened to you. But it'll make you more vigilant in the future! 
View on Reddit #51072671

holynightstand@reddit

Keep your window open when hooking up and listen for the “click”
View on Reddit #51072055

J0ker2009401@reddit

Always check it before pulling away
View on Reddit #51071283

CapitanPino@reddit

Yep. I tug and visually inspect even if im just going in for a piss and a drink after fueling. Never know who you pissed off out there or if they just want to have revenge on their old company etc. Might even think youre someone else.
View on Reddit #51069917

crayon_snacck@reddit

I remember my first day on the job
View on Reddit #51068914

Some-Bag-1028@reddit

Proper pre trip includes inspection of 5th wheel. I’m betting you’ll be doing better from now on👍
View on Reddit #51068473

Pengfaka21cm@reddit

Who would pull the release though, it’s probably dumb but I don’t find the logic in almost killing people.
View on Reddit #51068044

325trucking@reddit

I always set the trailer brake, pull forward and lean on the kingpin, then set the tractor brake
View on Reddit #51065081

PutridContribution41@reddit

That's because you were taking a bathroom brake for 30 minutes in the fuel island.
View on Reddit #51064318

fnPSychotiq@reddit

people at truckstops will pull your pin if you ain't careful.
View on Reddit #51062987

Outlandah_@reddit

Tug test. Tug test it again. Double, triple fucking check, visually with a flashlight, that the locking jaws are secure around the kingpin with no play. There should be no space between the apron and the skid plate. The manual pull pin should be in the locked position with a safety catch over it, you will notice the bar is ALL the way in and it will show no gaps. When you do so, make sure the truck is therefore slightly back than forward so the kingpin is not resting directly against the locking jaws. One way to make sure you’re always in and in for good, is that you firmly but smoothly back into the trailer’s kingpin so that it actually comes forward when you lock in. Not gingerly, not softly, and don’t try to drive backward through it either, because then you could screw up your 5th wheel. I am not saying this is your fault, I am just saying from my own experience, with some shitty trailers and sometimes mechanical stuff on my Volvo, you have to do everything right and then some. Just to make sure. Sometimes in the motions of things we might tend to forget every single detail. Run it like a checklist in your head. It’s okay, a mistake can happen and we learn. Most likely someone screwed with your truck, but just do the things like I said, it really does work to go over everything twice. When you walk away, don’t let your truck idle, take your keys with you and make sure to set your truck so it can’t be effed with.
View on Reddit #51062773

Outlandah_@reddit

Oh also I don’t mean to lecture. This is just what I myself had to learn after I also “double checked, swore up and down” and lo and behold, the trailer slid off halfway up the yard from my turnout 200 feet it seemed like it was following, and yet, it didn’t. I made sure to catch it on the wheels and simply fix the problem. I was pissed, but, I learned.
View on Reddit #51062825

confusedbystupidity@reddit

This is why I ALWAYS tug test when I leave the truck... ass holes are everywhere, and if they gotta bad day or don't like how you look, your a target
View on Reddit #51005171

olenamerikkalainen@reddit

Set your trailer brakes first, tug a bit and set your truck brakes. Ain’t no way in hell to pull the fifth wheel
View on Reddit #51007929

confusedbystupidity@reddit

True, but sometimes number 2 doesn't want you to wait to be secured unless you wanna secured the load in your underwear 🤣
View on Reddit #51061497

dominus_voluptatis@reddit

Were you sitting at a pump on the fuel island, instead of pulling forward or pulling into a parking spot? I've seen it happen to a guy in the middle of nowhere Kansas. The driver pulled into the fuel pump and took a 30 minute break in the store. Took another 15 minutes washing his truck with the squeegee. When he left the parking lot to get on the highway, the trailer fell off. Landing gear collapsed and the trailer broke in half. Parking spots were empty. Fuel island was busy. Luckily the cameras caught the driver who did it, however, he was already gone before the guy came out.
View on Reddit #51060478

Mattfoomoomoo@reddit

Eep
View on Reddit #51058640

NJNeal17@reddit

Every time that I lost a trailer, it was bc I didn't tug test and just tried to get on the road. Every. Single. Time.
View on Reddit #51058318

No_Program3588@reddit

I know it could happen anywhere at anytime but which stop did this happen at, maybe keep a closer eye on this area for suspicious activity for other drivers
View on Reddit #51056998

BossHogg1984@reddit (OP)

The Pilot in Chesterfield Indiana
View on Reddit #51057125

OTR_Flip@reddit

I hate that this happened to you. Glad you’re safe and the trailer didn’t hurt anyone else.
View on Reddit #51056183

Beginning-World-1235@reddit

Yeah I have gotten in the habit of always checking when I leave the truck. You never know who you pissed off on the road that is at that truck stop.
View on Reddit #50996910

LastMongoose7448@reddit

If you drive for a mega, you can’t slack on this habit. There’s so many disgruntled ex-employees out there. There was an ex-Swift driver setting trailers on fire there for a year or so. You never know…
View on Reddit #50997372

zenit31@reddit

I'm with swift and I check anytime I go to drive. I could walk away for 5 minutes and I'll still check. I'm paranoid about someone doing that stupid shit. I have a wife and kid to feed, can't afford something like that happening.
View on Reddit #51053769

LastMongoose7448@reddit

I haven’t been there in a few years, but I was when that guy was burning trailers while drivers were in the sleeper. I ran an overnight from LA to Phoenix and would always take a nap at Desert Center, and I was paranoid about getting hit by him. Every little noise would jolt me awake,
View on Reddit #51055709

Northcanadian@reddit

I still find many fresh nails in our shared yard. Had to fix my own car tires.
View on Reddit #51011001

ModeEnvironmentalNod@reddit

Not in trucking, but I had a neighbor do this to my driveway. I got so lucky that I didn't pick any up with my sports car, because I have to replace the tires as a set. I couldn't prove it, so I left a security camera prominently aimed at the driveway to deter any more vandalism.
View on Reddit #51054016

TruckerBiscuit@reddit

I remember that shit!
View on Reddit #51007520

CaptainReptile99@reddit

With the way my company's rules are, had this happened to me, it'd be an immediate termination. I'm learning from your mistake 😅 I give people too much credit to not be asshats and mess with my truck while I'm away from it, but I still ALWAYS do a walk around, check my airlines, glad hands, tires, and 5th Wheel.
View on Reddit #51054926

BigMChad1@reddit

Tug test after EVERY STOP !!
View on Reddit #51054723

wiebols@reddit

Had a old international at that time I slip seated. Fifth wheel needed to be rebuilt but boss put it off. Other driver took a load 15 miles first right turn trailer went straight.
View on Reddit #51054358

Drakomis@reddit

ALWAYS. CHECK. YOUR. FIFTH. WHEEL. AT. EACH. STOP. AND. EVERY. INSPECTION. Jeeze, never believe for once the value of humanity for your fellow trucker. One driver could be having a bad day, never even harm a fly in their life, and they see you and snap and pull your fifth wheel.
View on Reddit #51053760

zenit31@reddit

First thing I always do is to check to see if handle is locked and jaw is in right position. I'm paranoid about that especially cause I'm with swift and people hate us.
View on Reddit #51053491

bloodsoed@reddit

If someone pulled your pin on the fifth wheel. The trailer would’ve most likely hit the frame first. I would guess you high hooked the trailer and didn’t get underneath to visually inspect the jaws. Then when you pulled out making that turn the trailer slid up and forward
View on Reddit #50996096

Virtchoo@reddit

I came to say this. It actually looks like the jaws are still locked, and you can see where the pin scratched the side of the fifth wheel and took some of the grease off. Gotta make sure there’s no light.
View on Reddit #51023810

bloodsoed@reddit

That is not grease. That is the teflon plate that is on the fifth wheel.
View on Reddit #51053231

LastMongoose7448@reddit

That’s what I thought too, although getting that far high-hooked would be quite the feat.
View on Reddit #50997252

bloodsoed@reddit

It happens more often than you think. Had a coworker do the exact same thing a few months back. Went about 15 miles up a two lane from the shipper. Started to slow down to make the left turn to get back onto the interstate and the trailer slid right off and went partially into his sleeper.
View on Reddit #50997478

robs104@reddit

Well that sounds absolutely horrific. Like final destination type stuff.
View on Reddit #51002580

Ornery_Ads@reddit

There's no marring on the fifth wheel. I'd say the apron was firmly on the plate, slid back, then on a turn slid to one side. As the truck slowed down. The trailer didnt...and voila
View on Reddit #51000799

Spitfire954@reddit

I’ve gone to break a set of triples a driver dropped in our yard and one of the dolly’s jaws were not locked at all. Trailer with 2 pallets in the nose rolled in from out of state held on by hopes and dreams. The driver was still at the terminal so I had him look at it and he thought I was messing with him at first, then he got a little freaked out.
View on Reddit #51000219

Unfair_Fisherman_605@reddit

I tugged test every time I left my truck unattended. Just because I was paranoid about this happening.
View on Reddit #51053050

BoneZone05@reddit

People are such dangerous assholes! I’m glad no one was hurt, damn that really sucks.
View on Reddit #51052638

BitEnvironmental4872@reddit

People really pull 5th wheels like that?
View on Reddit #51050119

Regular-Rub-1977@reddit

What DC are you out of? Regardless just be careful what you post man cooperate definitely has people in this sub
View on Reddit #50999973

BossHogg1984@reddit (OP)

Marion
View on Reddit #51005388

Regular-Rub-1977@reddit

Atleast it’s dry lol but regardless people are ruthless check your locking jaws and your release arm every time you get ready to start driving again man wether that’s at a store where maybe someone wants to cause trouble or they’re pissed from you taking up room in the parking lot, someone in the DC lot, or some asshole at the gas station regardless always check it and I hope dg doesn’t do you dirty for this
View on Reddit #51009095

BossHogg1984@reddit (OP)

New problem, cops gave me all the paperwork after the trailer got taken by another truck from Werner
View on Reddit #51018622

Virtchoo@reddit

Trailer registration paperwork is a phone call and an email away. That’s not a problem. I always checked mine and if it was missing it was a 2 minute fix.
View on Reddit #51024181

BossHogg1984@reddit (OP)

Also, do I need to tell future employers about this?
View on Reddit #51048549

410FA@reddit

Did you bathroom in the fuel island 👀
View on Reddit #51047221

BossHogg1984@reddit (OP)

Shoulda just went between the truck and trailer
View on Reddit #51048385

craneguy_86@reddit

Straight sabotage!! Stay vigilant, people are assholes!! Like everyone else is saying, Always do a tug test ANYTIME you stop; and always keep pressure on that fifth wheel!!
View on Reddit #51048243

zhelfrich@reddit

Trust no one I check and tug every time I stop in rest area or truck stop even if handle doesn’t look out. It’s worth peace of mind for 30 seconds
View on Reddit #51047917

Radiant-Cat-7164@reddit

Someone pulled your pin
View on Reddit #51046427

howla456@reddit

Looks like the jaws are open. Did some prick pull the handle while you were out?
View on Reddit #51045438

disturbed157@reddit

I did a tug test last winter and it was fine, spin 180° around in our parking lot, hit a bump coming out of the lot and dismounted the trailer. The 5th wheel needed rebuilt, they said a spring had stretched out and just let loose then. Scary thing is I was pulling a loaded trailer 2 hours before that.
View on Reddit #51045239

elernius@reddit

About 20 years ago, I stopped at a little place in Kentucky to get some coffee. I was out of the truck for no more than 5 minutes so I just hopped right back in and hit the road. A little while later, I was taking an off ramp off the loop around Cincinnati. It had just started raining and as I went into the curve, my drives locked up and the cab started sliding sideways. I let off the brake and rode it out and it was just sheer luck that I didn't slide off a very steep embankment. At the end of the ramp I pulled over on the shoulder. Apparently when I had stopped earlier, someone had crimped my trailer service line and jammed it into the handle of a load lock I had behind the cab stashed horizontally between the fairings. To this day, anytime I'm out of visual sight of my truck, even if I'm just in the sleeper, I do a quick 30 second walkaround of my truck and check airlines, kingpin, tandem pins, and the back doors. Always. No exceptions. There are a lot of awful people out here.
View on Reddit #51043406

ReceptionMuch3790@reddit

Did someone pull your pin?
View on Reddit #51043245

vadroko@reddit

One morning I picked up a trailer and did my check, locking jaw looked good from underneath, and it pulled in the tug test, so I took off. It felt kinda loose, like the fifth wheel was unadjusted, a little bang as I pulled forward each time, but I only thought that's gonna be annoying as I drive. I pulled out of the facility, took a right, got to a light, took another right onto a main road, and just as I'm speeding up there's a big clunk and the damn trailer falls off with a jolt. I must've been going 15 miles an hour at that point but it scared the crap out of me. It so happened that a cop was a few cars behind me and he saw what happened and turned on his lights to block traffic as I cranked the trailer in low gear all the way up for like fifteen minutes and reattached. What I'm trying to say is if your kingpin ever feels 'loose' even though all the other checks look good, check again.
View on Reddit #51042652

ScaryfatkidGT@reddit

Someone pulled ur handle
View on Reddit #51042450

Puzzled-Space-1183@reddit

I always visually check that it’s locked. Tug test is not fool proof.
View on Reddit #51042223

Existing_Meeting_318@reddit

Someone pulled it while you were on the John. You need to make sure it’s secure before you pull away every single time!!!
View on Reddit #51041530

Nautilee@reddit

This is my worst fear, I’ve developed a serious anxiety and some ocd about it. I check my lever, locking pin, no gap between trailer and 5th wheel, do my tug tests multiple times. And even though I’ve seen 4 different buff ass guys try to pull my release (my button constantly doesn’t work correctly, company doesn’t care.) I still have to do this at least 3-5 times before I move at all, and I still can’t look at my trailer head when turning or my heart starts pounding extremely hard cause I think the trailer’s detached. I can’t watch my trailer wheels if I know it’s going up on a curb cause I’ll have an anxiety attack thinking it’s going to flip over. I watch it make contact on the super tight curbs just to make sure no one/thing is there then I just look forward. Side slopes cause me so much anxiety cause I feel like I’m going off the road. The most recent development of my anxiety has been my tandem locks, not remember if I did indeed see that the pins were through the holes, and even when I do I fact know that I did see them all the way out, stressing on if they’ll fail and my axels will fly off. When I drove for the military I never had these fears, something about this damn company maybe? I hope this shit gets better, if not I’m going to have to find another career path again. 😅
View on Reddit #51040816

SaltAndBitter@reddit

Update your resume, OP. DG doesn't care about the cause, they just care that it happened... you're gonna get canned
View on Reddit #51007468

BossHogg1984@reddit (OP)

I work for Werner on the DG account, not sure if that’s better or worse
View on Reddit #51007925

SaltAndBitter@reddit

Only marginally better. You might still have your job, but you likely won't be on the DG account anymore
View on Reddit #51023778

BossHogg1984@reddit (OP)

Yea, I’ve kinda decided even if I’m not fired I’m done with Werner after this week. DG pay ain’t it.
View on Reddit #51040740

ar10shooterinnc@reddit

Does anyone actually do a visual check anymore? It's the only way to be 100% sure.
View on Reddit #51030434

BossHogg1984@reddit (OP)

I think I have bad habits from military tractor trailers when it comes to what I check
View on Reddit #51040325

Alarming_Star_6549@reddit

Jb hunt?
View on Reddit #51034966

BossHogg1984@reddit (OP)

Werner
View on Reddit #51040249

PFM66@reddit

Lesson learned - always check after the truck is unattended.
View on Reddit #51040000

tidyshark12@reddit

I always reverse a bit and pull the Johnny bar. Ensures the fifth wheel is locked in case any ne'er do wells pull it thinking they're slick.
View on Reddit #51039070

Searhemi@reddit

When I get out of my truck and don’t have an eye on it, I do a quick walk around, look at the king pin, do a quick tug test, literally takes less than 5 minutes. Make it a habit.
View on Reddit #51039025

Bagzthehoney@reddit

Always would tug test when I was owner opp just to make sure I was safe
View on Reddit #51038111

Bbqandjams75@reddit

Did you park in the fuel lane? If so they would have it recorded
View on Reddit #51037146

felixthecat59@reddit

Somebody pulled the release. The fact that you did not perform a tug is your fault. Always do a push test and a tug test before leaving will make your life a whole lot better.
View on Reddit #51035075

Slosky22@reddit

This is why we always do visual checks and like the person said anytime you get out of your truck go to the bathroom basically when it’s not moving anytime you get back to your truck you want to stick your head underneath with the flashlight and make sure that it’s properly secured
View on Reddit #51035015

TuckinCL9@reddit

Did you park at a fuel pump to go the bathroom? Are you wearing flip flops?
View on Reddit #50996000

chayosman@reddit

🤣🤣
View on Reddit #51034699

BossHogg1984@reddit (OP)

I used a parking space like a good noodle, and I even have winter boots cause it was that or slip on shoes
View on Reddit #51005093

TuckinCL9@reddit

Proud of you OP! My guess is equipment failure or someone was just really out to wreck days. Does the place you stopped at have cameras that had your rig in view?
View on Reddit #51006784

Main_Section_1641@reddit

This is exactly what I’m thinking too Hahaha
View on Reddit #50998784

HnytrshBdgrpndA@reddit

When I park I lock the trailer brakes, put truck in gear and put tension on the jaws then release the truck brakes so people can't pull , I've seen people do this in person and let them know.
View on Reddit #51034349

Own-Load-7041@reddit

Glad hands have their limit
View on Reddit #51031639

Arthur_Digby_Sellers@reddit

Speculation on my part, but maybe since Jeff Bezos has recently become aligned with Trump that this is the reason for this incident?
View on Reddit #51022479

Wide-Engineering-396@reddit

Are some democrat pulled his pin?
View on Reddit #51031196

karrimycele@reddit

Yep, you gotta be careful leaving truck stops. Some assholes find it amusing to pull someone else’s fifth wheel. You can also put tension on it so they can’t pull it.
View on Reddit #51030261

fishnwiz@reddit

I alway set trailer brake and pull forward then set tractor. Almost impossible to release brake but tug before taking off
View on Reddit #51030199

yes-disappointment@reddit

pull trailer brake pull slightly forward pull tractor brake. noone can unlock that fifth wheel.
View on Reddit #51028156

markwmke@reddit

Check the cameras. That's wreckless endangerment and a felony in most states
View on Reddit #51027244

dcmontage@reddit

Either someone pulled your pin while you were in the bathroom or you didn't actually look to make sure your Jaws jocked around the kingpin.
View on Reddit #51026963

achaps81@reddit

Lock your trailer brakes, leave the tractor brakes unlocked. Put it in drive, tug a bit on the trailer. When you feel like you are almost dragging the trailer, pop your tractor brakes, take it out of gear. Even sweet 7 pound 8 ounce baby Jesus won't be able to pull your pin. Enjoy your break with peace of mind nobody is going to fuck you that day. Until we meet again : Skeletor gif...
View on Reddit #51025355

heroxoot@reddit

Always check that pin. People are dickheads out there. And many have a vendetta about certain companies.
View on Reddit #51025057

Mediocre_Ice_8846@reddit

Anytime that my truck is out of sight, at a truck stop or shipper, I always check the fifth wheel before I get back in. There are just too many stories like this floating around.
View on Reddit #51022991

DrRab121@reddit

I seen this getting on 69s at the 234
View on Reddit #51022423

Outside_Squirrel_839@reddit

Always back up tight on pin when u park somewhere so nobody can mess u up. Always tug test before u move there a lot of disgruntled ex employees that don’t care if you fail
View on Reddit #51022373

TemporaryOk9310@reddit

I do soda delivery. I teach every new guy to check your 5th wheel every time youre delivering in a place with truckers
View on Reddit #51021830

Sufficient_Tooth_949@reddit

Make this standard procedure every time you stop Come to your stop Set trailer brakes Push the throttle and put some pressure with the tractor Then set your tractor brakes while holding that tug pressure Now they physically can't pull the release arm because you set all that pressure on it
View on Reddit #51002966

SkinnyG80@reddit

I usually jam up the 5th wheel, I have pulled the trailer 10ft, fuck it, try pulling that 5th wheel lol
View on Reddit #51005977

SkinnyG80@reddit

Like seriously, set your trailer breaks, pull forward and it binds up the 5th wheel, btw sometimes you have to do this in reverse if your 5th wheel gets binded up, but 100% ALWAYS check your 5th wheel, get up under there, keep a little flashlight in your pocket, I have set trailer brakes and pulled a trailer 10ft before, better do it now than it falls off on the interstate doing 70mph and now your ass is in prison for 100 years
View on Reddit #51021423

themtoesdontmatch@reddit

These drivers are assholes, because why did they pull your release? This only creates more traffic. I had someone unplug y electrical line once and I didn’t realize it until i needed to get into the other lane.
View on Reddit #51020507

fartspatula@reddit

Screw the tug test, crawl under the trailer and put eyes on the kingpin and locking jaw. That’s the only way to be 100% sure it’s latched. Then check the release handle any time you leave the truck. The tug test is fools gold in my opinion, just cause you get some resistance doesn’t mean the locking jaw is correctly and completely latched onto the neck of the kingpin.
View on Reddit #51019301

TemperatureReal975@reddit

where did you park?
View on Reddit #51015791

BossHogg1984@reddit (OP)

Parking lot at a Pilot, maybe someone had reserved when they found it
View on Reddit #51018919

Plastic_Tourist9820@reddit

If you could see if there were cameras around it would be cool to have video of the asshat that did this to you.
View on Reddit #51018536

saykylenotcow@reddit

Hell, I had someone disconnect my red air line at my company’s terminal while I was home for a night. Having the 5th wheel release pulled while at a fuel island wouldn’t shock me at all. Personally I think it’s fucked up and if someone pulls an air line or kingpin release they should be prosecuted, can seriously hurt or kill someone if it’s not caught. I get it’s on us to pretrip, but fucking a man, don’t mess with something that could hurt an innocent person.
View on Reddit #51018451

BigBishopU@reddit

Someone pulled your pin ask for video footage
View on Reddit #51018009

DependentPlace5534@reddit

SSSSOOOOOOO WHO RELEASED YOUR 5th wheel
View on Reddit #51017681

tim1270@reddit

This is why I tug test every time I get back into my truck
View on Reddit #51017095

backbiter0723@reddit

My trucking school made it habit to tug test and visually check your locking jaws every time you go to leave after picking up a trailer or leaving the truck unattended.
View on Reddit #51016222

tigger_angel@reddit

Sounds like someone pulled your pin
View on Reddit #51015859

Fit_Hospital2423@reddit

Know another guy hooked up, never got under it to look to see for sure that the king pin was locked properly and pulled it about 10 miles and then when it got into a hard uphill, that’s when his trailer fell off.
View on Reddit #51014848

Fit_Hospital2423@reddit

I know a guy that did a tug test and then pulled it 100 miles. He never got in under it to see that the kingpin was sitting up on top of the jaws until he hit a big bump going onto an overpass and that’s when the trailer fell off.
View on Reddit #51014707

HereComeTheFlutePart@reddit

How are all the top posts saying someone pulled his pin...which never happens. I've heard of 50+ miles before the trailer uncoupling.... the fifth wheel wasn't fully coupled. What are we doing here.
View on Reddit #51014655

RevBair@reddit

I would have the fifth wheel inspected. I have seen twice where the the 5th wheel malfunctioned due to internal issues.
View on Reddit #51014123

BossHogg1984@reddit (OP)

Getting sent to the terminal to have it looked at
View on Reddit #51014346

StangOverload@reddit

Someone pulled your shit
View on Reddit #51013836

Whitehoneybun666@reddit

I see to many of these post and as a new driver I always tug test or at least look before moving
View on Reddit #51013696

ju5tjame5@reddit

Somebody pulled your pin because his wife beats him, and he had to take it out on someone.
View on Reddit #51013622

6834lyndon@reddit

I imagine someone pulled the pin , that’s why I always check before I go
View on Reddit #51013593

Traditional_Deer5569@reddit

Always check visually & tug test !!! Lot of assholes out here
View on Reddit #51012724

InvestigatorBroad114@reddit

Tug and visual inspection of the fifth wheel anytime you leave your truck
View on Reddit #51012697

Vegasboy52@reddit

Someone pulled it
View on Reddit #51012410

keytiri@reddit

Someone for funsies or with a grudge probably pulled your release; always check when you’ve left it unattended, but applying pressure makes it damn near impossible as well. Set trailer breaks and pull against it (forward) with tractor while setting tractor breaks, still I’d double check to be safe as well.
View on Reddit #51012276

Derwulfmann@reddit

I watched a fight almost break out at a Rest area in Illinois. Some guy got caught pulling the 5th wheel release. Too be fair I'd probably wanna fight the guy too.
View on Reddit #51011771

lestsgoritenoww@reddit

Did you save it or had to call a tow and lost your job?
View on Reddit #51008564

BossHogg1984@reddit (OP)

Probably getting dropped off the dollar general account, supposed go to a Werner terminal and probably gonna get fired
View on Reddit #51008799

Kathykat5959@reddit

You’ll get another job. Keep a flashlight handy and always duck under trailer and make sure pin is locked and glad hands are on. People do all kinds of things. Sorry this happened to you.
View on Reddit #51009545

BossHogg1984@reddit (OP)

Yea, I was eyeballing another company to go work for already, hopefully they’ll still take me now
View on Reddit #51011696

lestsgoritenoww@reddit

Dang sorry to hear that how much exp you got?
View on Reddit #51009127

BossHogg1984@reddit (OP)

Besides military this was halfway through my 2nd month
View on Reddit #51011115

MURDERBOYZZ9090@reddit

There is always that one person who likes to fuck up a person's day for absolutely no reason. TUG TEST TUG TEST TUG TEST! I learned the hard way as well. Some asshole pulled my 5th wheel and luckily just dropped my trailer straight into the black top as I pulled out. Was 79800 so THE TRAILER sunk right into that blacktop like cheese. Had to get a tow truck. Cost me over $400. After that, I have never left a parking spot without doing a TUG TEST.
View on Reddit #51011515

trucker3076@reddit

Someone definitely not happy with you or Dollar General
View on Reddit #51009501

BossHogg1984@reddit (OP)

Also driving a Werner truck
View on Reddit #51011042

I_Love_Blue_Doritos@reddit

So what did we learn today class?
View on Reddit #51010539

BossHogg1984@reddit (OP)

Put mouse traps on the 5th wheel pin?….. I mean check!!!!
View on Reddit #51010990

Hairymike6340@reddit

Did you physically look when you came out.
View on Reddit #51010768

reapershadow_@reddit

Always check I’ve back under my trailer heard the click and did a tug test just to go look and see it the locking jaw only half closed
View on Reddit #51010399

Virel_360@reddit

Anytime you are away from your truck and come back. You need to check your air hose lines and your fifth wheel. There are a lot of people out there who think their jokers who will try to ruin your day.
View on Reddit #51007894

AndromedanPrince@reddit

TIV. was trained to do it and reddit has confirmed many times why I always check that shit.
View on Reddit #51010107

Virel_360@reddit

Even when I come out of the truckstop with all my fast food and bottled waters and drinks, and I’ve got both hands full to the brim I I do a full squat to check to see if my fifth wheel arm is in the correct position and my air hoses weren’t slashed. I’ve seen too many videos on Reddit and in real life of somebody who got pissed off at another driver, destroying the other driver’s career because the other Driver didn’t take the time to check
View on Reddit #51010314

kumquat731@reddit

Always visually check the 5th wheel even if you were only out of the truck or in the sleeper for 5 minutes. That and the handle or button that locks the tandems are the only things I’m super OCD about checking multiple times before I get back on the road. Can’t trust anyone out here.
View on Reddit #51010044

Redge-Man@reddit

I saw you! You were getting onto I69 South Exit 234
View on Reddit #51009574

beamin1@reddit

Someone pulled your pin bro. Always check your jaws after stopping mf's crazy...happened all the time with show trucks.
View on Reddit #51008877

Key_Refrigerator67@reddit

Someone pulled your pin
View on Reddit #51008490

ksgif2@reddit

If you want to fuck with a driver, pull his red airline. You waste a bit of his time but nobody gets hurt.
View on Reddit #51008171

Vortr8@reddit

I always pull forward before leaving the truck for this reason
View on Reddit #51008105

eastofthem1ss1ss1pp1@reddit

Could've been a high hook, test tugs alone wouldn't have caught it, gotta check the locking jaw. Were you able to get hooked back up after doing the crank of shame?
View on Reddit #51006732

BossHogg1984@reddit (OP)

Well dot found me and made me call a wrecker cause they were worried about it tipping, also messed up a mud flap and a airbag so had to go to a shop
View on Reddit #51007869

TouchMyBoomstick@reddit

There’s some real nasty people out there and if you’re stopped anywhere they’ve decided that you shouldn’t be, they can pull your release. I always set my trailer brakes then pull forward to put as much pressure on it as I can. They’re going to work for it.
View on Reddit #51007641

StalinPaidtheClouds@reddit

Someone pulled it. The other replies seem to forget you got there before it fell off. There's no way you made it that far and then it gave out as soon as you left the stop, no, the other replies are retarded. Always assume the worst at truck stops. Besides dying behind the wheel, I'd imagine stops are the number #2 most likely way to die, because of other mentally unhinged truckers.
View on Reddit #51005960

notbannd4cussingmods@reddit

Ima say someone pulled ur pin. I just dont see making that far and parking otherwise
View on Reddit #51005423

InformalPlane5@reddit

Somebody unlatched you my friend
View on Reddit #51005394

Chance_Relationship7@reddit

That’s why I look at it too when I’m coming back from the bathroom at a truck stop always some dirtbag doing this
View on Reddit #51004171

hooligan-6318@reddit

I've seen high hooks pass a tug test, you lazy fat ass "tug test" choads need to grab a flashlight and visually inspect the fifth wheel jaws have locked around the trailer kingpin. And there can't be a gap between the trailer kingpin plate and the truck fifth wheel. I don't believe someone pulled your release while you were in the store, trailer would've hit the frame/drive tires as you pulled out the first time.
View on Reddit #50999302

Haunting-Ad788@reddit

Only if he pulled out straight.
View on Reddit #51003645

Next-Ear6681@reddit

Always do a walk around the truck and trailer 4 min max now you calling that greyhound go ahead on
View on Reddit #51003500

marlo6240@reddit

There’s some real assholes out there always check bro
View on Reddit #51003210

cliffordloofe@reddit

I always hook it, tug test it, and visually inspect it’s latched. I have a fear of being one of the stars on truckers wall of shame.
View on Reddit #51002672

Sensitive-Pass-6552@reddit

Sometimes just a tug test is not enough. Always visualize it with a flashlight also.
View on Reddit #51002589

Charliepetpup@reddit

always set trailer brake and pull forward to put tension. they cant pull that pin, theyll pull their shoulder out of their socket first. then always tug test. or you could try not parking in the fuel aisle if there are parking spots
View on Reddit #51002227

Leek5@reddit

Next time pull your trailer brake first. Pull your tractor forward and pull your tractor brakes while pulling forward. They won’t be able to pull your fifth wheel release if you do this
View on Reddit #50999567

Foreign_Hyena_6622@reddit

I like this thank you going to start doing this
View on Reddit #51002168

Im_Not_Sure42@reddit

This is the way
View on Reddit #51000999

Material-Pension3706@reddit

I had it happen to me too. Did the standard pre-trip test, drove 180 miles, backed up and adjusted tandems, got unloaded adjusted tandems closed doors, tug, pulled out To leave the parking lot with a right hand. drove about a mile down the road did a wide right hand turned and my trailer slid right off the truck Took photos of everything and my fifth wheel showed that it was still locked.
View on Reddit #51001643

Strong_Wasabi8113@reddit

They do fail. It's rare but sometimes the lock pin breaks inside and everything looks correct. Jaws locked, handle in, locking pin flush. It'll fail going from first to second, the shift takes the pressure off and then when you put power on it'll force the Jaws open. Conversely, you pissed someone off and they pulled your handle
View on Reddit #51000969

Pitiful-MobileGamer@reddit

No one's pulling the pin on a car hauler plate, unless you know what you're doing. Conventionals. One of the easiest ways is to leave the Jaws in tension. Use the spike to do the final stop before you pull the yellow, it'll pull the cake pan against the top of the assembly, making it take a Hercules level strength to pull the release.
View on Reddit #51000509

Chemical-free35@reddit

Testing the lock before leaving on my driving portion of my cdl test helped me pass, tester asked me why you checking that? I said you never know who might have a problem with you so always check. Tester said I’ll pass that on.
View on Reddit #50998973

JojoAnthony@reddit

Whenever you leave your truck unattended, take a closed fist to your release handle and do a tug test before pulling off. Someone pulled your 5th wheel. It's totally unacceptable to mess with others equipment but, did you follow truck stop "etiquette"?
View on Reddit #50998751

ElectronicGarden5536@reddit

One of the reasons i liked pulling tank. Getting to the release was impossible unless you had a 5th wheel puller with a cut down hook. Offroad fenders are nice to have. Thats sucks though only truckers would think to do that.
View on Reddit #50998676

Kitchen_Alps@reddit

Disconnect your airlines before dropping a trailer next time, Driver.
View on Reddit #50998431

maddpsyintyst@reddit

Adding to the advice on rechecking your fifth wheel, I also suggest always doing a quick pull test before taking off. It's better to drop a trailer in a parking lot than on the road, as you probably know quite well now. Also--and this is a rare thing these days--avoid air-release fifth wheels like the plague. That's advice I got from a mechanic certified to fix fifth-wheels, after I told him my own story about a dropped trailer. I had a very specific set of steps for checking the connection, and the only time I ever had a problem was that one time, with that one fifth wheel, out of a thousand connections made.
View on Reddit #50997909

HerburtThePervert@reddit

This will make you angry but this is still entirely your fault. Not checking your fifth can kill someone and we are surrounded by people who hate us. I have ocd so bad that I check it every single time.
View on Reddit #50997731

pianodude01@reddit

I had something similar happen, trailer was fine for 300 miles, 2 miles from the yard it just dropped in the middle of the road. It wasn't a normal trailer, it was a $500k heavy haul trailer....
View on Reddit #50997191

Hanox13@reddit

While the dropped trailer is a big ooof, I’m more interested in the lizard BDSM you engage in…
View on Reddit #50997569

clarobert@reddit

Definitely high hooked!
View on Reddit #50997442

chronostasis1@reddit

There is something called a pretrip
View on Reddit #50995826

darkriceknights@reddit

Learn to read. He said he drove 30 miles and had to use the restroom. We'll i guess truckers can't read.
View on Reddit #50996085

qaf0v4vc0lj6@reddit

I am a trucker, not a reader, thnank you very much.
View on Reddit #50996326

BeenThruIt@reddit

As a trucker, I get paid to read. No pay, no read.
View on Reddit #50997413

chronostasis1@reddit

No I read it . But he left his truck , so when you return you should still check to see if someone did pull the pin .
View on Reddit #50996179

First-Olive-1181@reddit

Congratulations you no longer have a job!
View on Reddit #50997401

clarobert@reddit

Just last week, there was a guy that drives for another company here that high hooked his trailer - loaded at the rack, drove five miles and delivered to a gas station and it wasn't until he was turning out empty that the trailer moved off the fifth wheel plate. 8500 gallons of unleaded, and was never even hooked to the pin. . .
View on Reddit #50997389

Easyd26@reddit

Hopefully the landing gear handle is on the left. Looks salvageable albeit not unreportable
View on Reddit #50997251

mcgunner1966@reddit

Well I have nothing to add other than sorry for your luck.
View on Reddit #50996765

chaoz2030@reddit

I always check to make sure my pin is latched even when coming back from the bathroom. It only takes 30 seconds. That being said this sucks man I'm sorry you're going through this
View on Reddit #50996494