Abstract: A connection arrangement is provided for securing and aligning a female coupling on a trailer with a tow ball operably connected to a tow vehicle. An alignment assembly is removably attached to a frame of the trailer. A motion transfer assembly is connected by the alignment assembly to the trailer frame. The motion transfer assembly takes the form of a horizontal jacking mechanism including the rotatable crank for moving a transfer tube relative to a power crank device. A bar receiver assembly is connected by a tow ball to the tow vehicle. A pivot arm assembly is pivotally connected between the transfer tube of the motion transfer assembly and the tow vehicle. Rotation of the crank will move the female coupling on the trailer into alignment with the tow ball so that the female coupling can be locked upon the tow ball enabling the tow vehicle to tow the trailer.

Abstract: A camper crank drive mechanism provides for the powered operation of the top erecting and retracting mechanism of a camper vehicle having a folding top. The present mechanism secures to the camper structure, and has an output shaft which engages the conventional crank input of the camper vehicle. The crank drive mechanism comprises a gear speed reduction unit, which reduces the input speed and multiplies the input torque considerably, in order to allow a relatively small and lightweight battery operated power tool (cordless electric drill, power screwdriver, etc.) to be used to operate the reduction mechanism. The mechanical advantage provided by the mechanism allows it to serve as a mechanical lock of the top erection and retraction mechanism, precluding inadvertent collapse of the top during the intermediate phase of the erection or retraction operation.