Patent ID: 6170916
Filing Date: 2001-01-09
Classification: B60P

Abstract:
A tailgate operating assembly comprises a first pressure receptive cylinder connected to a pressure source, an elongated cavity in said first cylinder having a retraction facing end and an extension facing end, said elongated cavity of said first cylinder having a closed retraction facing end wall at its retraction facing end and an extension facing end wall at its extension facing end having an aperture therein, a piston mounted in said elongated cavity for reciprocal movement therein between said retraction facing and extension facing ends thereof, an elongated operating member having a retraction facing end secured to said piston, an extending portion forward thereof extending through said aperture in said extension facing end wall, and an extension facing end of said elongated operating member extending outwardly of said cavity, said operating member being reciprocally movable between an extended position when said piston is moved toward said extension facing end of said cavity and a retracted position when said piston is moved toward said retraction facing end thereof, and first pressure release means opening continuously to the non-pressurized ambient atmosphere operatively associated with said first cylinder for releasing pressure within said cavity when said piston is being moved toward said retraction facing end portion thereof.