CA2418606C - Adjustable tailgate - Google Patents
Adjustable tailgate Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2418606C CA2418606C CA 2418606 CA2418606A CA2418606C CA 2418606 C CA2418606 C CA 2418606C CA 2418606 CA2418606 CA 2418606 CA 2418606 A CA2418606 A CA 2418606A CA 2418606 C CA2418606 C CA 2418606C
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- tailgate
- outer frame
- box
- vertical
- panels
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- Expired - Fee Related
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
- B62D33/00—Superstructures for load-carrying vehicles
- B62D33/02—Platforms; Open load compartments
- B62D33/023—Sideboard or tailgate structures
- B62D33/027—Sideboard or tailgate structures movable
- B62D33/0273—Movable tailboards for vehicles comprising non-movable sideboards, e.g. pick-up trucks
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Transportation (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Lock And Its Accessories (AREA)
- Body Structure For Vehicles (AREA)
Abstract
In a standard pickup truck a replacement multi-purpose adjustable tailgate is provided. The width of the tailgate can be varied. The tailgate of the invention is adapted to fit-on the standard fittings at the rear end of normal-sized boxes of Dodge, Ford and GMC pickup trucks. The gate is comprised of two panels which can open independently within a tailgate frame. The tailgate is capable of functioning as an ordinary tailgate, i.e. being pivotally mounted to the rear of the opening of the truck box, moving from an open horizontal position, to a vertical closed position. Two tailgate panels can be opened to the inside or outside, together or independently, to permit access to the truck box. Finally, the tailgate panels are equipped with a wire mesh covering to lower wind resistance of the vehicle when travelling.
Description
DISCLOSURE
This invention relates to an adjustable width tailgate for a pickup truck, and more particularly to a combination tailgate capable of being placed in several positions. The tailgate acts as a replacement part and will fit the boxes of the major North American truck makers.
Background of the Invention Production pickup trucks have been equipped with standard tailgates for many years. The tailgate generally comprises a rectangular single panel with a locking means. The gate is placed either in a closed vertical position across the rear opening of a truck box or in a lowered open horizontal position, extending beyond the truck box.
Such tailgates, although universally accepted, have a number of drawbacks. Firstly, it is difficult to store small items in the rear of the box of the truck because one must extend oneself over the open tailgate to put such items in. Secondly, it is difficult to climb into the box. Thirdly, the tailgate, in the horizontal position, can become damaged when heavy loads are lifted thereon, such as ATV's or other heavy objects. In addition, it is difficult to place a ramp on the rear of the truck box for mounting a snowmobile. Finally, the operator cannot load such items as 10 foot 2 X 4s or other materials on one side of the truck box while placing tool boxes, etc. on other side of the box without leaving the complete tailgate open. With the tailgate left open to accommodate the longer items, chances of losing smaller items from the truck box during travel is increased.
Thus, there appears to be a need to have a combination tailgate split in two yet able to function as a normal tailgate when conditions require. Split tailgates are not new. Such a tailgate is found in USP 5,029,927, However, that tailgate is not designed for a normal pickup truck as it requires complex hydraulics and other parts, and is rather expensive to manufacture and maintain.
Similarly, in USP 2,806,735, a split tailgate is shown.
The problem with this device is complex fittings. Thus, the tailgate is not adapted to fit on the standard fittings of a pickup truck. Moreover, the gate panels are not capable of moving inwardly which is desirable in some cases where the operator does not wish any portion of the tailgate to extend beyond the limit of the truck box.
It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a combination split. tailgate which can be inexpensively produced and is adapted to fit immediately on the standard fittings already provided for a conventional tailgate of a pickup truck. Furthermore, the inventor has fund that by making the width of the tailgate adjustable for several box widths, great savings in inventory can be made.
Therefore, this invention seeks to provide a width adjustable combination tailgate adapted to be mounted on standard tailgate fittings of a pickup truck box comprising: a three-sided rectangular outer frame; said outer frame adapted for pivotal movement about said standard fittings at its lowermost outer ends, from a vertical locked position to a horizontal extended open position; said tailgate further comprising a pair of substantially rectangular gate panels pivotally mounted within said outer frame for movement independent of one another; said gate panels being equipped with locking means to releasably lock said panels into said outer frame in an aligned position transverse to the longitudinal axis of said truck box; wherein in operation, when said outer frame is in the vertical locked position, access to said truck box can be gained by opening one or both of said gate panels inwardly or outwardly; said gate panels being adapted to open inwardly 90° within said box parallel to the sides of said box or outwardly 90°, extending rearwardly of said box; and when said gate panels are in the aligned locked position, and said outer frame is moved to the horizontal extended open position, conventional access to said truck box is permitted.
In a preferred embodiment the gate panels are comprised of substantially rectangular frames covered with a rigid mesh such that in travel operation, when said outer frame is in the vertical locked position, and said gate panels are in the aligned position, air within the truck box can pass freely through the tailgate, thereby reducing wind resistance on the pickup truck.
The tailgate of the present invention is easily constructed using an outer, three-sided, rectangular frame which is equipped with fittings on its outer vertical side edges. These are adapted to engage the circular fitting affixed to the lower rear ends of a truck box. The outer frame can be locked by means of a bolt inserted behind the inwardly extending horizontal conventional locking projection mounted on the inner sides of the 5 tailgate opening of a standard pickup truck.
Pivotally mounted within the frame are a pair of gate panels which are preferably covered with a mesh to reduce wind resistance. These gate panels can be locked in place in the vertical upright position by means of spring loaded rods connected to handles. If one desires to open one gate only, the gate can be moved outwardly o:r inwardly to permit easy access to the truck box. When the gate panels are in the vertical aligned locked position, the tailgate assumes the normal vertical locked position of a standard tailgate. When the outer frame is released from the truck box and moved downwardly and rearwardly to the horizontal open position the tailgate assumes the conventional open position.
The gates are lockable onto a lower mounting track by means of Alan Head Locking Nuts. Thus the inner sides of the gates will vary in the closed positions depending on the box width.
The various combinations of the present invention offer an inexpensive and sturdy tailgate with great versatility.
The details of the invention will be more clearly understood in connection with the following drawings wherein:
Figure I is a rear view of the tailgate of the present invention in the vertical closed position;
This invention relates to an adjustable width tailgate for a pickup truck, and more particularly to a combination tailgate capable of being placed in several positions. The tailgate acts as a replacement part and will fit the boxes of the major North American truck makers.
Background of the Invention Production pickup trucks have been equipped with standard tailgates for many years. The tailgate generally comprises a rectangular single panel with a locking means. The gate is placed either in a closed vertical position across the rear opening of a truck box or in a lowered open horizontal position, extending beyond the truck box.
Such tailgates, although universally accepted, have a number of drawbacks. Firstly, it is difficult to store small items in the rear of the box of the truck because one must extend oneself over the open tailgate to put such items in. Secondly, it is difficult to climb into the box. Thirdly, the tailgate, in the horizontal position, can become damaged when heavy loads are lifted thereon, such as ATV's or other heavy objects. In addition, it is difficult to place a ramp on the rear of the truck box for mounting a snowmobile. Finally, the operator cannot load such items as 10 foot 2 X 4s or other materials on one side of the truck box while placing tool boxes, etc. on other side of the box without leaving the complete tailgate open. With the tailgate left open to accommodate the longer items, chances of losing smaller items from the truck box during travel is increased.
Thus, there appears to be a need to have a combination tailgate split in two yet able to function as a normal tailgate when conditions require. Split tailgates are not new. Such a tailgate is found in USP 5,029,927, However, that tailgate is not designed for a normal pickup truck as it requires complex hydraulics and other parts, and is rather expensive to manufacture and maintain.
Similarly, in USP 2,806,735, a split tailgate is shown.
The problem with this device is complex fittings. Thus, the tailgate is not adapted to fit on the standard fittings of a pickup truck. Moreover, the gate panels are not capable of moving inwardly which is desirable in some cases where the operator does not wish any portion of the tailgate to extend beyond the limit of the truck box.
It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a combination split. tailgate which can be inexpensively produced and is adapted to fit immediately on the standard fittings already provided for a conventional tailgate of a pickup truck. Furthermore, the inventor has fund that by making the width of the tailgate adjustable for several box widths, great savings in inventory can be made.
Therefore, this invention seeks to provide a width adjustable combination tailgate adapted to be mounted on standard tailgate fittings of a pickup truck box comprising: a three-sided rectangular outer frame; said outer frame adapted for pivotal movement about said standard fittings at its lowermost outer ends, from a vertical locked position to a horizontal extended open position; said tailgate further comprising a pair of substantially rectangular gate panels pivotally mounted within said outer frame for movement independent of one another; said gate panels being equipped with locking means to releasably lock said panels into said outer frame in an aligned position transverse to the longitudinal axis of said truck box; wherein in operation, when said outer frame is in the vertical locked position, access to said truck box can be gained by opening one or both of said gate panels inwardly or outwardly; said gate panels being adapted to open inwardly 90° within said box parallel to the sides of said box or outwardly 90°, extending rearwardly of said box; and when said gate panels are in the aligned locked position, and said outer frame is moved to the horizontal extended open position, conventional access to said truck box is permitted.
In a preferred embodiment the gate panels are comprised of substantially rectangular frames covered with a rigid mesh such that in travel operation, when said outer frame is in the vertical locked position, and said gate panels are in the aligned position, air within the truck box can pass freely through the tailgate, thereby reducing wind resistance on the pickup truck.
The tailgate of the present invention is easily constructed using an outer, three-sided, rectangular frame which is equipped with fittings on its outer vertical side edges. These are adapted to engage the circular fitting affixed to the lower rear ends of a truck box. The outer frame can be locked by means of a bolt inserted behind the inwardly extending horizontal conventional locking projection mounted on the inner sides of the 5 tailgate opening of a standard pickup truck.
Pivotally mounted within the frame are a pair of gate panels which are preferably covered with a mesh to reduce wind resistance. These gate panels can be locked in place in the vertical upright position by means of spring loaded rods connected to handles. If one desires to open one gate only, the gate can be moved outwardly o:r inwardly to permit easy access to the truck box. When the gate panels are in the vertical aligned locked position, the tailgate assumes the normal vertical locked position of a standard tailgate. When the outer frame is released from the truck box and moved downwardly and rearwardly to the horizontal open position the tailgate assumes the conventional open position.
The gates are lockable onto a lower mounting track by means of Alan Head Locking Nuts. Thus the inner sides of the gates will vary in the closed positions depending on the box width.
The various combinations of the present invention offer an inexpensive and sturdy tailgate with great versatility.
The details of the invention will be more clearly understood in connection with the following drawings wherein:
Figure I is a rear view of the tailgate of the present invention in the vertical closed position;
Figure la is a detailed rear view of tailgate panel 16 in the closed vertical position;
Figure 2 is a top view of the tailgate of the present invention in an open horizontal, rearwardly extending position;
Figure 3 is a detailed perspective view of the driver's side of the tailgate of the present invention when the complete tailgate is in the horizontal open position;
Figure 4 is a rear view of the tailgate of the present invention with the outer frame in the vertical closed position, the driver's side gate panel in an open forward position, and the passenger is side gate panel in a closed position;
Figure 5 is a perspective view of the tailgate of the present invention with the outer frame in the vertical closed position, the driver's side gate open rearwardly, and the passenger's side gate closed in the vertical locked position;
Figure 6 is a rear view of the tailgate of the present invention with the outer frame in the closed vertical position with both the driver's side gate and passenger's side gate in an open forwardly extending position; and Figures 7A to 7F show the adjustable feature of the gates to fit different widths of truck boxes.
Considering Figures l, la, 2 and 3 where similar numerals represent similar parts, a pickup truck I is equipped with a standard conventional truck box 2, the truck box having typically rearwardly extending sides 3a and 3b, and a floor or bed 4. The construction of the box is such that the rear end of box is open, making a place for a standard tailgate or a replacement tailgate of the present invention. The tailgate of the present invention, like a conventional tailgate, is designed to fit within the right angled rear corners of the box generally shown as 6,6, as seen in Figures 2 and 3.
The standard pickup truck box rear angled sides 6,6 are equipped with a lower inwardly projecting round hinge means 7, shown in dotted lines in Figure la. There is also an upper inwardly projecting horizontal locking means $. Typically, a standard tailgate is adapted to pivot about hinge means 7 and with a locking mechanism, lock the tailgate in place on upper locking means 8.
As shown in Figures I and 2, the tailgate of the present invention is generally shown as 9. It has an outer three-sided rectangular frame comprising a driver's side upstanding frame member 10 and a passenger's side upstanding frame member II. These are fixedly connected at right angles to a lower horizontal outer frame member 12. At each end of lower horizontal outer frame member 12 is a conventional circular hinge fitting 13, as seen in Figure la. These fittings are adapted to rotate about projections 7 fixedly attached to truck box rear angled members 6. In this manner the outer frame of the tailgate is adapted to pivot about projection 7 from an upright vertical position to a horizontal rearwardly extending open position as shown in Figure 2.
At the top of each of vertical outer frame members 10 and 11 is a horizontally inwardly directed flange 14, as seen in Figures la and 2. This is equipped with an aperture or recess.
Similarly, on the bottom of each outer side of lower horizontal frame member 12 is a similar type of flange 15. Flanges 15 are directly in line with flanges 14, and flanges 15 are also equipped with an aperture or recess (shown in dotted lines).
Pivotally mounted within the outer frame at either side, between flanges 14 and 15, are two rectangular gate panels, shown generally in Figures 1 and 2 as 16,17. These rectangular gate panels consist of an outer frame covered with a heavy duty mesh 19. The frames of gate panels 16 and 1'J include vertical frame members 20, which lie parallel to outer frame side members 10 and 11, respectively. Located within each member 20, throughout its length, is a pivot rod 21, as shown in dotted lines in Figure la, which is adapted to pivot within the recesses located in brackets 14,15. In order to ensure long life for the pivot rod 21, two grease fittings 22,22 are located on the and bottom of vertical frame members 20.
Gate panels 16 and 17 further include a lower horizontal frame member 23, which is at right angles to and fixedly attached to vertical frame member 20. The opposite end of the lower horizontal frame member 23 is fixedly attached at right angles to inner vertical member 24 which is shorter than frame member 20, in a preferred embodiment.
Finally, gate panels 16,17 are equipped with a top frame member 25 which is inclined downwardly at point 26 to fixedly join inner vertical frame member 24 at point 18. Inner vertical frame members 24,24, similar to outer frame members 20,20, are equipped with a channel extending throughout their length and marked as 24a. Within channel 24a is a locking rod 27, as shown in dotted lines in Figure la, which is resiliently biassed by means of spring 27a. The upper portion of locking rod 27 is fixedly attached to a handle 28. As shown in Figure la, handles 28 can be moved upwardly or downwardly the vertical distance of slots 29 located in inner frame members 24,24.
When handle 28 is released to the lower position locking rod 27 locks within an aperture 30 of locking bracket 31.
Locking brackets 31,31 are in line with channels 24a,24a of tailgate panels 16,17 and are fixedly mounted on the upper surface of lower horizontal outer frame member 12. When handles 28 are raised and locking rods 27 are raised and released from apertures 30, the panels 16 and 17 can be pivoted between flanges 14 and 15 inwardly or outwardly within or without the truck box.
Tailgate 9 can open downwardly and rearwardly to the lower horizontal open position. A standard cable 32 is attached to bracket 33 located on outer frame side members 10 and 11 at one end and at its opposite end it is attached to bracket 34, fixedly mounted on the rear angled sides 6 of box 2. Cable 32 is used to limit the downward and rearward movement of the tailgate 9 to keep the tailgate in an open horizontal position.
To lock tailgate 9 in the vertical upward position, each of outer frame side members 10 and 11 are equipped with a pair of fixedly attached U-shaped brackets 35,36 as shown in both Figures la and 3.
When the tailgate outer frame is lifted forwardly and upwardly to the vertical position, U-shaped bracket 35 is adapted to lie below and forwardly of projection 8, as shown in Figure la; similarly upper U-shaped bracket 36 is adapted to lie above and forwardly of projection 8.
U-shaped brackets 35 and 36 are adapted to engage a 5 locking pin 37 which is attached to a safety chain 38. When locking pin 37 is inserted through U-shaped brackets 35,36 when the tailgate is in the closed vertical position, pin 37 is wedged forwardly of projection 8, thus locking the tailgate in the vertical closed position.
10 As is normally found on the right angled rear portions 6,6 of the rear opening of a standard pickup truck, a pair of bumpers 39 and 40 are fixedly attached to the box so that when tailgate 9 is placed in the vertical closed locked position, tailgate 9-does not rattle against the truck box 2, as seen in Figure la.
Figures 7a to 7f relate to the essence of the present invention and are the true inventive embodiment of the invention over the inventor's prior art.
Figure 7a is a top view that shows that lower horizontal main frame 12 of the tailgate has been severed and now consists of left-sided main frame 12a and right-side main frame 12b. 12a is fixedly connected to vertical left side main frame 10, and 12b is fixedly connected to vertical right side main frame 11 .
Main frames 12a and 12b are adapted to slide inwardly or outwarly within sleeve 41, This is to adapt the outer ends of main frames 12a and 12b to attach to rounded hinges 7 of truck boxes of different widths, in other words, this embodiment of the invention can be used to install the tailgate in all normal truck boxes of major North American pickups. Sleeve 41 is equipped with two raised elongated projections, 44, on its top side, forming a channel. These replace former aperture 31 and are adapted to receive rods 30 which can move outwardly or inwardly, depending on the lateral movements of the two gates. Apertures are adapted, as usual, to receive pivotal vertical rods 21.
Figures 7b and 7c are side and bottom views 10 respectively of sleeve 44 and main frames 12a and 2b. As shown more clearly in figures 7d, 7e and 7f, sleeve 41 is equipped with aperture 42 which are adapted to receive alan head locking set screws 13.
In operation, beginning with Figure 1, the tailgate 9 15 of the present invention can be maintained in a vertical closed position with gates 16 and 17 aligned with one, another in a line transverse to the longitudinal axis of truck box 2.
When pins 37 are removed from U-shaped brackets 35,36, the entire outer frame, along with gates 16 and 17, can be lowered to the horizontal open position, as shown in Figures 2 and 3. When it is desired to open one or both of the individual gate panel members 16,17, outer frame member is returned to the vertical closed position and pins 37 are reinserted into their respective U-shaped brackets 35,36. In order to have access to the box on the driver's side, handle 28 of gate panel 16 is raised upwardly, releasing locking rod 27 from aperture 30 and gate panel 16 can be swung inwardly within truck box 2 to be parallel with truck box side 3a, as shown in Figure 4.
As shown in Figure 5, gate panel 16 is also capable of being moved outwardly and rearwardly such that it is extending parallel to truck box side 3a and rearwardly thereof.
As shown in Figure 6, handles 28 of both side members 16,17 are raised, releasing locking rods 27 from apertures 30 of brackets 31,31, and both gate panels can be moved inwardly to respectively lie parallel to sides 3a and 3b of truck box 2.
Although not shown in the drawings it is understood that both gate members 16 and 17 can be rearwardly extended as gate panel member 16 is shown in Figure 5.
In operation, as shown in figures 7a to 7f, the tailgate is placed in a box of a pickup truck and lower main frames are extended outwardly or retracted inwardly in order to secure the circular hinges '7 of the truck box. Once the proper width is obtained, set screws 43 are tightened in aperture 42 to secure 12a and 12b in sleeve 41 at the correct distance.
Thus, it can be seen that the tailgate of the present invention is extremely versats_1e and adapted to be used in various configurations, in a manner never heretofore disclosed, to accommodate many loading requirements.
Figure 2 is a top view of the tailgate of the present invention in an open horizontal, rearwardly extending position;
Figure 3 is a detailed perspective view of the driver's side of the tailgate of the present invention when the complete tailgate is in the horizontal open position;
Figure 4 is a rear view of the tailgate of the present invention with the outer frame in the vertical closed position, the driver's side gate panel in an open forward position, and the passenger is side gate panel in a closed position;
Figure 5 is a perspective view of the tailgate of the present invention with the outer frame in the vertical closed position, the driver's side gate open rearwardly, and the passenger's side gate closed in the vertical locked position;
Figure 6 is a rear view of the tailgate of the present invention with the outer frame in the closed vertical position with both the driver's side gate and passenger's side gate in an open forwardly extending position; and Figures 7A to 7F show the adjustable feature of the gates to fit different widths of truck boxes.
Considering Figures l, la, 2 and 3 where similar numerals represent similar parts, a pickup truck I is equipped with a standard conventional truck box 2, the truck box having typically rearwardly extending sides 3a and 3b, and a floor or bed 4. The construction of the box is such that the rear end of box is open, making a place for a standard tailgate or a replacement tailgate of the present invention. The tailgate of the present invention, like a conventional tailgate, is designed to fit within the right angled rear corners of the box generally shown as 6,6, as seen in Figures 2 and 3.
The standard pickup truck box rear angled sides 6,6 are equipped with a lower inwardly projecting round hinge means 7, shown in dotted lines in Figure la. There is also an upper inwardly projecting horizontal locking means $. Typically, a standard tailgate is adapted to pivot about hinge means 7 and with a locking mechanism, lock the tailgate in place on upper locking means 8.
As shown in Figures I and 2, the tailgate of the present invention is generally shown as 9. It has an outer three-sided rectangular frame comprising a driver's side upstanding frame member 10 and a passenger's side upstanding frame member II. These are fixedly connected at right angles to a lower horizontal outer frame member 12. At each end of lower horizontal outer frame member 12 is a conventional circular hinge fitting 13, as seen in Figure la. These fittings are adapted to rotate about projections 7 fixedly attached to truck box rear angled members 6. In this manner the outer frame of the tailgate is adapted to pivot about projection 7 from an upright vertical position to a horizontal rearwardly extending open position as shown in Figure 2.
At the top of each of vertical outer frame members 10 and 11 is a horizontally inwardly directed flange 14, as seen in Figures la and 2. This is equipped with an aperture or recess.
Similarly, on the bottom of each outer side of lower horizontal frame member 12 is a similar type of flange 15. Flanges 15 are directly in line with flanges 14, and flanges 15 are also equipped with an aperture or recess (shown in dotted lines).
Pivotally mounted within the outer frame at either side, between flanges 14 and 15, are two rectangular gate panels, shown generally in Figures 1 and 2 as 16,17. These rectangular gate panels consist of an outer frame covered with a heavy duty mesh 19. The frames of gate panels 16 and 1'J include vertical frame members 20, which lie parallel to outer frame side members 10 and 11, respectively. Located within each member 20, throughout its length, is a pivot rod 21, as shown in dotted lines in Figure la, which is adapted to pivot within the recesses located in brackets 14,15. In order to ensure long life for the pivot rod 21, two grease fittings 22,22 are located on the and bottom of vertical frame members 20.
Gate panels 16 and 17 further include a lower horizontal frame member 23, which is at right angles to and fixedly attached to vertical frame member 20. The opposite end of the lower horizontal frame member 23 is fixedly attached at right angles to inner vertical member 24 which is shorter than frame member 20, in a preferred embodiment.
Finally, gate panels 16,17 are equipped with a top frame member 25 which is inclined downwardly at point 26 to fixedly join inner vertical frame member 24 at point 18. Inner vertical frame members 24,24, similar to outer frame members 20,20, are equipped with a channel extending throughout their length and marked as 24a. Within channel 24a is a locking rod 27, as shown in dotted lines in Figure la, which is resiliently biassed by means of spring 27a. The upper portion of locking rod 27 is fixedly attached to a handle 28. As shown in Figure la, handles 28 can be moved upwardly or downwardly the vertical distance of slots 29 located in inner frame members 24,24.
When handle 28 is released to the lower position locking rod 27 locks within an aperture 30 of locking bracket 31.
Locking brackets 31,31 are in line with channels 24a,24a of tailgate panels 16,17 and are fixedly mounted on the upper surface of lower horizontal outer frame member 12. When handles 28 are raised and locking rods 27 are raised and released from apertures 30, the panels 16 and 17 can be pivoted between flanges 14 and 15 inwardly or outwardly within or without the truck box.
Tailgate 9 can open downwardly and rearwardly to the lower horizontal open position. A standard cable 32 is attached to bracket 33 located on outer frame side members 10 and 11 at one end and at its opposite end it is attached to bracket 34, fixedly mounted on the rear angled sides 6 of box 2. Cable 32 is used to limit the downward and rearward movement of the tailgate 9 to keep the tailgate in an open horizontal position.
To lock tailgate 9 in the vertical upward position, each of outer frame side members 10 and 11 are equipped with a pair of fixedly attached U-shaped brackets 35,36 as shown in both Figures la and 3.
When the tailgate outer frame is lifted forwardly and upwardly to the vertical position, U-shaped bracket 35 is adapted to lie below and forwardly of projection 8, as shown in Figure la; similarly upper U-shaped bracket 36 is adapted to lie above and forwardly of projection 8.
U-shaped brackets 35 and 36 are adapted to engage a 5 locking pin 37 which is attached to a safety chain 38. When locking pin 37 is inserted through U-shaped brackets 35,36 when the tailgate is in the closed vertical position, pin 37 is wedged forwardly of projection 8, thus locking the tailgate in the vertical closed position.
10 As is normally found on the right angled rear portions 6,6 of the rear opening of a standard pickup truck, a pair of bumpers 39 and 40 are fixedly attached to the box so that when tailgate 9 is placed in the vertical closed locked position, tailgate 9-does not rattle against the truck box 2, as seen in Figure la.
Figures 7a to 7f relate to the essence of the present invention and are the true inventive embodiment of the invention over the inventor's prior art.
Figure 7a is a top view that shows that lower horizontal main frame 12 of the tailgate has been severed and now consists of left-sided main frame 12a and right-side main frame 12b. 12a is fixedly connected to vertical left side main frame 10, and 12b is fixedly connected to vertical right side main frame 11 .
Main frames 12a and 12b are adapted to slide inwardly or outwarly within sleeve 41, This is to adapt the outer ends of main frames 12a and 12b to attach to rounded hinges 7 of truck boxes of different widths, in other words, this embodiment of the invention can be used to install the tailgate in all normal truck boxes of major North American pickups. Sleeve 41 is equipped with two raised elongated projections, 44, on its top side, forming a channel. These replace former aperture 31 and are adapted to receive rods 30 which can move outwardly or inwardly, depending on the lateral movements of the two gates. Apertures are adapted, as usual, to receive pivotal vertical rods 21.
Figures 7b and 7c are side and bottom views 10 respectively of sleeve 44 and main frames 12a and 2b. As shown more clearly in figures 7d, 7e and 7f, sleeve 41 is equipped with aperture 42 which are adapted to receive alan head locking set screws 13.
In operation, beginning with Figure 1, the tailgate 9 15 of the present invention can be maintained in a vertical closed position with gates 16 and 17 aligned with one, another in a line transverse to the longitudinal axis of truck box 2.
When pins 37 are removed from U-shaped brackets 35,36, the entire outer frame, along with gates 16 and 17, can be lowered to the horizontal open position, as shown in Figures 2 and 3. When it is desired to open one or both of the individual gate panel members 16,17, outer frame member is returned to the vertical closed position and pins 37 are reinserted into their respective U-shaped brackets 35,36. In order to have access to the box on the driver's side, handle 28 of gate panel 16 is raised upwardly, releasing locking rod 27 from aperture 30 and gate panel 16 can be swung inwardly within truck box 2 to be parallel with truck box side 3a, as shown in Figure 4.
As shown in Figure 5, gate panel 16 is also capable of being moved outwardly and rearwardly such that it is extending parallel to truck box side 3a and rearwardly thereof.
As shown in Figure 6, handles 28 of both side members 16,17 are raised, releasing locking rods 27 from apertures 30 of brackets 31,31, and both gate panels can be moved inwardly to respectively lie parallel to sides 3a and 3b of truck box 2.
Although not shown in the drawings it is understood that both gate members 16 and 17 can be rearwardly extended as gate panel member 16 is shown in Figure 5.
In operation, as shown in figures 7a to 7f, the tailgate is placed in a box of a pickup truck and lower main frames are extended outwardly or retracted inwardly in order to secure the circular hinges '7 of the truck box. Once the proper width is obtained, set screws 43 are tightened in aperture 42 to secure 12a and 12b in sleeve 41 at the correct distance.
Thus, it can be seen that the tailgate of the present invention is extremely versats_1e and adapted to be used in various configurations, in a manner never heretofore disclosed, to accommodate many loading requirements.
Claims (4)
1. An adjustable combination tailgate adapted to be mounted on standard tailgate fittings of a pickup truck box comprising:
a three-sided rectangular outer frame;
said outer frame adapted for pivotal movement about said standard fittings at its lowermost outer ends, from a vertical locked position to a horizontal extended open position, the lowermost main frame being comprised of a left side and a separate right side and adapted to move inwardly and outwardly within a horizontal sleeve in order to connect to hinges of various width truck boxes;
said tailgate further comprising a pair of substantially rectangular gate panels pivotally mounted within said outer frame for movement independent of one another;
said gate panels being equipped with locking means to releasably lock said panels into said outer frame and said sleeve in an aligned position transverse to the longitudinal axis of said truck box;
wherein, in operation, when said outer frame is in the vertical locked position, access to said truck box can be gained by opening one or both of said gate panels inwardly or outwardly;
said gate panels being adapted to open inwardly 90°
within said box parallel to the sides of said box or, outwardly 90°, extending rearwardly of said box;
and when said gate panels are in the aligned locked position, and said outer frame is moved to the horizontal extended open position., conventional access to said truck box is permitted.
a three-sided rectangular outer frame;
said outer frame adapted for pivotal movement about said standard fittings at its lowermost outer ends, from a vertical locked position to a horizontal extended open position, the lowermost main frame being comprised of a left side and a separate right side and adapted to move inwardly and outwardly within a horizontal sleeve in order to connect to hinges of various width truck boxes;
said tailgate further comprising a pair of substantially rectangular gate panels pivotally mounted within said outer frame for movement independent of one another;
said gate panels being equipped with locking means to releasably lock said panels into said outer frame and said sleeve in an aligned position transverse to the longitudinal axis of said truck box;
wherein, in operation, when said outer frame is in the vertical locked position, access to said truck box can be gained by opening one or both of said gate panels inwardly or outwardly;
said gate panels being adapted to open inwardly 90°
within said box parallel to the sides of said box or, outwardly 90°, extending rearwardly of said box;
and when said gate panels are in the aligned locked position, and said outer frame is moved to the horizontal extended open position., conventional access to said truck box is permitted.
2. A tailgate as claimed in claim 1 wherein said gate panels comprise a substantially rectangular frame covered with a rigid mesh, such that in travel operation, when said outer frame is in the vertical locked position, and said gate panels are in the aligned locked position, air within said truck box can pass freely through said tailgate, thereby reducing wind resistance on the pickup truck.
3. A tailgate as claimed in claim 1 wherein said sleeve includes at its centre portion a pair of upstanding elongated projections comprising a channel;
said channel adapted to engage two downwardly extending spring loaded rods;
each of said rods being attached to a handle mounted on said gate panels;
whereby, when in operation, when said handles are raised, said rods disengage said channel and said gate panels are free to pivot inwardly or outwardly;
and when said handles are released, said gate panels can be locked in said aligned closed position.
said channel adapted to engage two downwardly extending spring loaded rods;
each of said rods being attached to a handle mounted on said gate panels;
whereby, when in operation, when said handles are raised, said rods disengage said channel and said gate panels are free to pivot inwardly or outwardly;
and when said handles are released, said gate panels can be locked in said aligned closed position.
4. A tailgate as claimed in claim 1 wherein said outer frame includes at its upper outer side edges a pair of U-shaped brackets, fixedly mounted to said outer frame;
said brackets being adapted, when said outer frame is in the vertical closed position, to rest above and below and forwardly of a standard tailgate fitting, said fitting comprising a horizontal inwardly extending locking projection;
said U-shaped projections further adapted to engage a locking pin;
whereby when said outer frame is in the vertical position and said locking pin is inserted within said U-shaped brackets, forwardly of said horizontal projection, said tailgate is in a locked vertical position.
said brackets being adapted, when said outer frame is in the vertical closed position, to rest above and below and forwardly of a standard tailgate fitting, said fitting comprising a horizontal inwardly extending locking projection;
said U-shaped projections further adapted to engage a locking pin;
whereby when said outer frame is in the vertical position and said locking pin is inserted within said U-shaped brackets, forwardly of said horizontal projection, said tailgate is in a locked vertical position.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2418606 CA2418606C (en) | 2003-02-10 | 2003-02-10 | Adjustable tailgate |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2418606 CA2418606C (en) | 2003-02-10 | 2003-02-10 | Adjustable tailgate |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2418606A1 CA2418606A1 (en) | 2004-08-10 |
| CA2418606C true CA2418606C (en) | 2010-06-15 |
Family
ID=32831580
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2418606 Expired - Fee Related CA2418606C (en) | 2003-02-10 | 2003-02-10 | Adjustable tailgate |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2418606C (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US10022016B1 (en) | 2017-07-21 | 2018-07-17 | Swift Engineering, Inc. | Modular barbecue for vehicle tailgate |
Families Citing this family (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2011163374A1 (en) * | 2010-06-23 | 2011-12-29 | Chrysler Group Llc | Vehicle compartment closure apparatus |
| US8657127B2 (en) | 2010-08-13 | 2014-02-25 | Chrysler Group Llc | Gun and fishing rod holder |
| US8740279B1 (en) | 2013-02-20 | 2014-06-03 | Chrysler Group Llc | Multi-functional tailgate for a vehicle |
| US11505261B2 (en) | 2020-02-07 | 2022-11-22 | Fca Us Llc | Vehicle hinge assembly |
| US11648992B2 (en) | 2021-03-22 | 2023-05-16 | Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. | Vehicle tailgate cargo stabilizer |
-
2003
- 2003-02-10 CA CA 2418606 patent/CA2418606C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US10022016B1 (en) | 2017-07-21 | 2018-07-17 | Swift Engineering, Inc. | Modular barbecue for vehicle tailgate |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2418606A1 (en) | 2004-08-10 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |
Effective date: 20130211 |