Patent ID: 6276738
Filing Date: 2001-08-21
Classification: B60P,B62D

Abstract:
A retractable tailgate assembly, comprising:a cargo bed including a floor, a front wall panel connecting a pair of side walls panels;a tailgate comprising a panel defining an inner surface, a front surface, a rear outer surface, a top edge a bottom edge, side edges and means for cooperatively engaging said pair of side wall panels;a pair of longitudinal side support members attaching to a bottom surface of said cargo bed said longitudinal side support members including a channel formed therein;at least one tubular member attached to the bottom surface of said cargo bed;at least one slidable longitudinal member cooperatively engaging said at least one tubular member;a support member extending normal to a distal end of said slidable longitudinal member;means for holding extending from said tailgate for cooperatively engaging said support member;means for pivotally connecting said said support member in alignment with said means for holding extending from said tailgate;a release and locking mechanism comprising a retractable holding means supported within said support member for cooperatively engaging said pair of longitudinal side support members and including distal ends for sliding within said channel;means for biasing said retractable holding means in an extended locked position;means for releasing retractable holding means.