Abstract: A shiftable cover for a manure spreader is provided that is easily shiftable between a closed position wherein the spillage of liquid and semiliquid manure from the spreader is inhibited, to an open position which allows for the direct top loading of the spreader. The cover includes a pair of hinged together shiftable plates and extensible piston and cylinder assemblies for shifting the plates between opened and closed positions within a minimum operating envelope. The plates are arranged so as to scrapingly engage the manure spreader top wall for self cleaning of the top wall and the cover during the shifting of the plates.