Abstract: A powered closure mechanism for moving a tailgate from an open position to a closed position comprises a reciprocating drive mechanism mounted on the tailgate and a power transmission which connects the reciprocating drive to the tailgate so that it will rotate the tailgate between an open and closed position in response to operation of the reciprocating drive mechanism.

Abstract: A tail-gate assembly comprises a stationary support, a slide mounted on the stationary support, a platform pivotally mounted on the slide, a latch member mounted on and projecting laterally from said loading platform, a latch plate mounted on said stationary support. The latch plate has a latch notch formed therein which has an entrance way opening in a direction to admit the latching member. The notch is proportioned to receive said latch member in a close fitting relationship so as to provide a vertical restraint limiting vertical movement and a rotational restraint limiting rotational movement of said platform.