Abstract: A combination lifting hinge and latching mechanism for a tailgate used on a refuse hauler and compactor. A hydraulically operated lifting hinge is comprised of three principle components, namely, a hydraulic cylinder, a bell crank and a cam plate secured to the tailgate. A pair of lifting assemblies is disposed at an upper location each side of the cylindrical compactor body such that it is not easily damaged, and further, allows the compactor body to extend laterally and vertically to the maximum highway guidelines. The lifting mechanism first lifts the tailgate from the locking position such that locking pins clear side spur latches before rotation. Due to the unique camming feature and a kidney-shaped slot in the cam plate, an over-center locking feature is provided. The tailgate cannot be inadvertently lifted from a locked position due to upward forces, such as the truck hitting a bump, even if the actuating cylinder should relax its holding forces, such as during a hydraulic failure.