Tractor operated fifth wheel hitch stand diagonal strut linkage

A trailer hitch comprising:

• a diagonal strut linkage rigidly attached to a bumper block assembly which is pivotably mounted about a pin supported for rotation upon a vertical strut;
• said linkage extending within a hitch diagonal strut;
• a transversely extending shaft attached to the lower portion of said linkage;
• at least one movable locking link attached to an outer end of said shaft;
• said movable locking link engaging the distal end of a locking member pivotably mounted upon a bar located at the lower end of the diagonal strut;
• said locking member engaging at least one fixed locking lug when said diagonal strut linkage is in the extended position within said diagonal strut;
• resilient means biasing said linkage into a downward position within said strut;
• and guide means located within said diagonal strut allowing vertical movement of said linkage within said strut as said linkage rotates about said pin as said linkage is moved longitudinally within said strut against the bias of said resilient means;
• said guide means comprising a guide plate located in said diagonal strut rigidly connected to said diagonal strut having a vertical slot therein for effecting said vertical movement;
• and said resilient means comprising a spring attached to said guide plate and to a spring plate attached to said linkage.