Abstract: An apparatus for use in measuring the roof panel stiffness of an automatic vehicle having a unitized steel body construction. The apparatus comprises a support structure for positioning an upper cross beam assembly in a spaced exterior manner above the roof panel. The cross beam assembly comprising an upper arch beam and a lower lever arm having one end pivotally connected to one side of the cross beam for supporting a load cell on the roof panel upper surface. A low voltage displacement transducer is supported between the arch beam and the lever arm in vertical alignment with the load cell. Loads applied to the free end of the lever arm are measured by the load cell while resultant deflections are measured by the transducer. The transducer and load cell are adapted to be electrically connected to an X-Y plotter, so as to provide a load/deflection curve for the roof panel.

Abstract: A novel one-piece hoisting and towing bracket adapted for mounting on a vehicle frame cross member. A unitary generally U-shaped bracket is formed from sheet metal providing a bridge portion interconnecting first and second upright mirror image leg portions each having a double-L-shaped cross section. The bridge portion has a forwardly extending, horizontally positioned plate portion bent therefrom provided with holes receiving self-tapping bolts which extend through associated aligned apertures in the bottom wall of the cross member. Each leg portion upper end has a forwardly offset locking blade adapted to initially project through an associated horizontal slot in the side wall of the cross member whereby threading the bolts into their aligned apertures fixedly secures the bracket on the vehicle.

Abstract: A gas spring assisted latch assembly for an automotive vehicle seat structure which tilts the seat forwardly to an easy entry position without passenger assistance upon release of the latch. An extensible and retractable gas spring actuator is provided constantly biased toward its extended position. The actuator, which has its one end pivotally connected to the seat riser and its other end pivotally connected to the vehicle floor, is held in its retracted position by a latch mechanism releasably locking the seat structure in its upright mode. Release of the latch mechanism allows the actuator to apply a constant pushing force pivoting the seat to its forwardly tilted position. An improved dual actuated latch mechanism provides an alternative outboard side latch release handle for ready access from outside the vehicle in combination with an existing rear latch release handle.