Abstract: A two-piece limit strap clamp for use with a shock absorber and a limit strap retention device is provided. The pieces couple together around the upper end of a shock absorber. The clamp has a protrusion that extends outwardly and is adapted for attachment of the top end of a limit strap. The lower end of the limit strap may be attached to a mounting tab that is coupled to the lower mounting bracket of the shock absorber. Also disclosed is a limit strap with a tether coupled to a spring of the shock absorber to prevent the limit strap from bowing out when the shock absorber is compressed. A method of use of a limit strap with a tether is also disclosed.

Abstract: A draw spring linkage includes a hollow rod formed with a shoulder structure at the first end of the rod and with a slot that extends longitudinally of the rod and is located between the shoulder structure and the second end of the hollow rod. A tongue member includes an attachment portion and a stem that projects from the attachment portion. The stem fits slidingly in the interior space of the hollow rod and is formed with a slot that is aligned with the slot in the hollow rod. A key extends through the slot in the tongue member and the slot in the hollow rod and projects laterally from the hollow rod. A hollow cylindrical spring is threaded by the hollow rod. The first end of the spring engages the shoulder structure, the second end of the spring engages the key, and the spring is held under compression between the shoulder structure and the key.

Abstract: A counterbalance for use in a motor vehicle that is connected to a tailgate to at least partially control the movement of the tailgate. The counterbalance is made of a spring that counters the load applied to the tailgate, a flexible material strap that provides a stop for the counterbalance, a protective housing that covers the spring, and a flexible material strap. The counterbalance has a fully extended length that is greater than twice the length of the counterbalance when non-extended.

Abstract: The strut includes a bidirectional frictional damping assembly which provides frictional damping under rebound and jounce conditions. A separate rebound frictional damping assembly, or a separate jounce frictional damping assembly, or both, provide differential rebound and jounce damping, with and without bidirectional frictional damping.