A novel interconnection of the jaw (42), wedge (26) and operating handle (21) in a fifth wheel (11) facilitates the provision of an indicator (58) on a secondary locking mechanism which further insures the security of the system. In the invention, the jaw (42) is connected to the operating handle (21) by a pivoting timing lever (31) which pivots off a pin (41) on the jaw (42) such that the jaw (42) remains engaged with the fifth wheel (11) until the wedge (26) is substantially removed from engagement with the jaw (42). In cooperation with the primary locking mechanism, a secondary lock is provided at the end of the operating handle (21) such that a pawl arrangement (51) engages a stop (63) on the fifth wheel assembly (11) until positively released by the operator. The pawl arrangement (51) further has a mechanical indicator (58) which extends beyond the fifth wheel assembly (11) and allows the operator to determine whether the king pin (16) is engaged and the secondary lock is activated.