1.2 Coupling a Tractor and Semitrailer: Overview

Correct coupling is a step-by-step process. The highlights:

1. Inspect the fifth wheel and line the tractor up directly in front of the trailer.
2. Back slowly until the fifth wheel just touches the trailer, then connect the air lines and electrical cable.
3. Back under the trailer so the locking jaws close around the shank of the kingpin — not the head.
4. Do a pull test against the locked trailer brakes, then visually check there is no gap between the upper and lower fifth wheel.
5. Fully raise the landing gear before driving away.

Your training provider will drill the complete sequence — this lesson is the concept map, not a substitute for hands-on training.