Patent ID: 8714657

Claim:
A method for securing a tailgate of a dump truck in a partially open position, said dump truck having the tailgate with a latch pin extending laterally outward and a latch with dog for engaging the latch pin to secure the tailgate in a closed position, said method comprising: releasing the dog of the latch from the latch pin on the tailgate; providing a post having an elongated member with a horizontal hole through a distal end, and a vertical opening in a proximal end; attaching the distal end of the post to the tailgate by inserting the latch pin through the hole in the distal end of the post; inserting the proximal end of the post into the latch of the dump truck; and inserting the dog of the latch into the opening in the proximal end of the post to secure the proximal end of the post to the latch, thereby holding the tailgate open in a predetermined position.