fj12ryder wrote:
Shoot, I can answer those questions about the B&W hitch.
It not only closes when backed into, it locks. You can back into it and immediately drive off if you so wished. I know, I have done it. I didn't realize I hadn't pinned the handle until I was out of the campground and down the road.
The pin keeps the handle in the closed position, but you could drive without it being pinned. There is no mistaking the closing/locking of the jaws. They will not open without interaction between a person and the handle. No handle pull, no opening.
The jaws close around the pin and you can easily see the jaws around the 5th wheel pin.
The only reason I can think of for the ability to lock open the handle is that sometimes the hitch can be a bit finicky about letting go of the pin. If there is pressure on the pin, sometimes the jaws won't open. Which, if you think about it, is a good thing. The handle doesn't physically open the jaws, it only allows the jaws to open.
You are probably correct about the ability to lock the jaws open.
