Importance

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Abstract

A retractable trailer hitch (1) for use on an intermodal railcar (C) supports an over-the-road trailer (T) of the railcar when the hitch is in its raised position. The hitch includes a hitch head (3) which is releasably securable to the king pin (K) of the trailer. The hitch head is supported by a first or generally vertical support strut (9) and by a second or a diagonal support strut (7), both of these struts being pivotally connected to the hitch head. The lower end of the first strut is pivotally secured in fixed position to the railcar and the lower end of the second strut is selectively locked in a fixed position with respect to the railcar when the hitch is in its raised position. A latch mechanism is carried on the lower end of the second strut so as to positively maintain the hitch in its raised position. The latch mechanism may be manually operated by a train attendant from the side of the car clear of the hitch so as to unlock the hitch and to permit movement of the hitch from its raised to its retracted position.

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First Claim