Abstract: A power liftgate device for a liftgate of a vehicle having a power drive unit and a pneumatic actuator. The pneumatic actuator is pivotally coupled between the liftgate and the vehicle and exerts a force opposing retraction of the liftgate. A driven gear is fixed to the pneumatic actuator to pivot therewith and is selectively driven by the power drive unit. The liftgate assembly further includes an engaging device that is coupled to the vehicle for engaging the power drive unit with the driven gear, thereby enabling the power drive unit to drive the driven gear. Specifically, the engaging device is positionable between an engaged and a disengaged position, wherein the engaging device is operable in the engaged position to engage the power drive unit into driving connection with the driven gear. The engaging device is also operable in the disengaged position to disengage the power drive unit from the driven gear to enable the actuator to actuate freely.

Abstract: A power liftgate assembly for a liftgate of a vehicle having a power drive unit and a plurality of driven gears. The plurality of driven gears is selectively driven by the power drive unit. The assembly further includes a first drive arm pivotally coupled to the vehicle and a second drive arm pivotally coupled to the liftgate at a first end and pivotally coupled to the first drive arm at a second end. The liftgate assembly still further includes an engaging device selectively coupled to at least one of the plurality of driven gears. The engaging device engages at least one driven gear with the first drive arm, thereby enabling the driven gear to drive the first drive arm. The engaging device is positionable between an engaged and a disengaged position, wherein the engaging device is operable in the engaged position to engage the driven gear into driving connection with the first drive arm.