Abstract: A lift and secure latch assembly for a vehicle tailgate includes a pair of cables capable of applying upward force to the tailgate and a tensioning mechanism positioned within the tailgate and connected to the support members to apply tension thereto. One of the cables extends from a first lateral end of the tailgate and the other of the cables extends from a second lateral end of the tailgate. The tensioning mechanism is operable between a first position wherein the cables are retracted with the tailgate closed and a second position wherein the cables are extended with the tailgate open. The tensioning mechanism includes a spring member biasing the tensioning mechanism toward the first position. A latch selectively engages the tensioning mechanism to releasably secure the tensioning mechanism in the first position with the tailgate closed. Preferably, the latch is centrally positioned between lateral ends of the tailgate.

Abstract: A shifter assembly includes a base and a shifter lever pivotably connected to the base so that the shifter lever is pivotable over a shift path about a laterally extending pivot axis. A shifter control cable assembly includes a first conduit, a first core disposed in the first conduit for longitudinal movement therein, a second conduit, and a second core disposed in the second conduit for longitudinal movement therein. The first core is operatively connected to the shifter lever so that the first core is pulled by the shifter lever when the shifter lever is pivoted about the pivot axis in a first direction. The second core is operatively connected to the shifter lever so that the second core is pulled by the shifter lever when the shifter lever is pivoted about the pivot axis in a second direction opposite the first direction.

Abstract: A lift and secure latch assembly for a vehicle tailgate includes a pair of cables capable of applying upward force to the tailgate and a tensioning mechanism positioned within the tailgate and connected to the support members to apply tension thereto. One of the cables extends from a first lateral end of the tailgate and the other of the cables extends from a second lateral end of the tailgate. The tensioning mechanism is operable between a first position wherein the cables are retracted with the tailgate closed and a second position wherein the cables are extended with the tailgate open. The tensioning mechanism includes a spring member biasing the tensioning mechanism toward the first position. A latch selectively engages the tensioning mechanism to releasably secure the tensioning mechanism in the first position with the tailgate closed. Preferably, the latch is centrally positioned between lateral ends of the tailgate.