A pin assembly (20) having a substantially automatic locking and stowing mechanism, including a latch (90), a biasing member (70), and an engagement pin (30). The engagement pin includes a hollow-tipped forward end, allowing a hardened core pin insert to be introduced. The latch is operably connected to the pin assembly such that raising the latch compresses, creating an extension force, and tensions, creating a rotational force, the biasing member, and applying a force to the rearward end of the pin assembly causes the extension force to drive the engagement pin forward through aligned openings of the adjacent panels and the rotational force drops the latch securing the two panels in place. The adjacent panels are easily disconnected by raising the latch, compressing, creating an extension force, and tensioning, creating a rotational force, the biasing member, and applying a force to the forward end of the pin assembly causing the extension force to drive the engagement pin back through the aligned openings of the framework panels and the rotational force to drop and stow the latch for later use. A biased catch (75) secures the engagement pin in a retracted position.