Abstract: A horizontal ejection system for a vehicle. An ejector is adapted to travel axially through the interior from the front to the back of the truck body. A hydraulic system includes a hydraulic circuit for moving the ejector, and an ejector signal processing system signals the hydraulic circuit. The ejector signal processing system includes one or more proximity switches for detecting the location of the ejector and triggering the movement of the ejector. The switches are disposed on the truck body to sense the location of both the ejector and the tailgate. As a result, the hydraulic circuit is signaled to control the hydraulic system and thereby move the ejector based on a position of the ejector and the tailgate, wherein, in combination, the ejector and the tailgate control a load of material within the truck body.

Abstract: A tailgate system for a dump body of a vehicle capable of operation in a plurality of modes includes a tailgate pivotally connected to side walls along an upper tailgate end for operation in a first mode and pivotally connected to one of the side walls along a tailgate side for operation in a second mode. A control assembly including a latching member, arm and handle is at least partially protected by placement within a corner post of the dump body.

Abstract: A tailgate system for a dump body of a vehicle capable of operation in a plurality of modes includes a tailgate pivotally connected to side walls along an upper tailgate end for operation in a first mode and pivotally connected to one of the side walls along a tailgate side for operation in a second mode. To convert the tailgate from the first to the second mode of operation, a ball and socket are engaged forming a pivot point around which the tailgate can rotate in the second mode.

Abstract: A bulk material container, such as a trailer, includes an improved cross brace and top rail system including roller-type cross brace assemblies. The rear and center cross brace assemblies advantageously include a support tube, an outer loosely mounted roller, and two mounting brackets. The tube serves as the lateral support for the trailer; the ends being held in brackets attached to the top rails. The roller is mounted loosely over the tube and is free to rotate and/or to be lifted vertically, thereby preventing tightly packed bulk cargo material from becoming lodged against the braces during the unloading process. The top rails are extrusions with different portion thicknesses designed to minimize the weight while still providing sufficient strength to withstand the forces exerted during loading.

Abstract: Top closing doors are pivotally mounted on a trailer and are provided with a driving mechanism including a drive cylinder connected by a pin to an endless chain extended in figure-eight fashion around opposed sprockets at the ends of the trailer. The doors are driven by swinging arms connected to the sprockets so as to move in opposite directions during opening and closing and provide full 270.degree. opening movement. The chain includes a master drive link to provide driving stability and an adjustable link passing in guiding relationship to the master link and for providing the required driving tension. The master link is driven by a drive pin connected to a hydraulic cylinder.