Other

Philip Belnap

H Arthur Wing

A combination ramp and tailgate structure is disclosed for installation and use in pickup trucks in which the structure would replace a conventional tailgate. The ramp/tailgate structure includes first, second, third and fourth generally rectangular frame members, the first and second of which are slidably coupled together to move between a nested or collapsed position and an extended position, and a third and fourth of which are likewise slidably coupled together to move between a nested or collapsed position and an extended position. The slidable movement between frame members is in the planes thereof so that a low profile, compact configuration may be maintained when in the collapsed position, yet allows sufficient thickness of the members to permit the ramp to support heavy loads. When the frame members are in nested positions and when the third frame member is pivoted into a position against and parallel with the second frame member, the frame members may be pivoted as a unit to an upright position to serve as a conventional tailgate. When the frame members are moved respectively to their extended positions and when the third frame member is pivoted so that all frame members are generally parallel in the same plane, with a rearward side or edge of the fourth frame member in contact with the ground, the ramp/tailgate serves as a ramp extending from the ground to the bed of the pickup truck.

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Provo, UT, United States of America

Philip Belnap