Patent ID: 7213857
Filing Date: 2007-05-08
Classification: B62D

Abstract:
1. A hinge assembly for assisting in the pivotal movement of a tailgate mounted between spaced apart body side panels of a vehicle body, the assembly comprising: a first assembly attached exterior to a first end of the tailgate and rotatably supporting the tailgate at a first side panel of the vehicle body, a second assembly attached exterior to a second end of the tailgate and rotatably supporting the tailgate at a second side panel of the vehicle body, and a torque rod exterior to the tailgate and extending between the first and second assemblies, a first end of the torque rod being secured to the first side panel by the first assembly, and a second end of the torque rod being secured to the tailgate by the second assembly, the torque rod being shaped to facilitate attachment of the first assembly to the exterior of the first end of the tailgate, the second assembly being comprised of a retainer assembly that is attached to the tailgate, and that includes a slit opening in which the second end of the torque rod is inserted and secured.