Abstract: A tarpaulin cover system for covering and uncovering a vehicle body in accordance with a winding mechanism includes a plurality of spaced catch members secured on each of the sides of the two sides of the vehicle body. The tarpaulin extends partially down each side. A plurality of spaced lock members are provided on the sideward extensions of the tarpaulin corresponding to the number of catch members. Each lock member on the tarpaulin is disposed for being automatically engaged by a respective one of the catch members during the covering motion of the tarpaulin and automatically disengaged during the uncovering motion.

Abstract: A safety mechanism used in connection with a tarpaulin which selectively covers and uncovers a vehicle body includes a transmitting member for causing the tarpaulin to move. A drive sprocket is connected to the transmitting member and is rotated by a crank handle mounted coaxially on the drive sprocket shaft. A forward motion pawl resiliently engages a ratchet on the shaft to assure one way operation when the handle is in its operative condition. A safety pawl is selectively moveable into engagement with the drive sprocket for preventing any inadvertent rotation of the drive sprocket.