Abstract: A transportable personal elevation device is attachable to a substrate which is a vehicle or trailer bed. The elevation device includes a platform assembly including a platform and a platform support member. The elevation device also includes a connector assembly including a pivot pin and a mounting structure. The connector assembly is configured and arranged such that when attached to the substrate, the elevation device can be pivotally moved about the pivot pin between a storage position and an outwardly extending position. The elevation device may also include a latch assembly for temporarily fixing a position of the device, and may further include a post which is attached to a side of the platform assembly to permit grasping thereof by a user. The elevation device may take the form of a pivotable stair assembly which can be folded into a storage configuration and stored beneath a truck trailer.

Abstract: A cargo bed assembly for a pickup truck includes: a pair of side walls opposing each other; a truck bed located between the pair of sidewalls, and having a first cavity; a tailgate pivotally connected to a rear end of the truck bed by a first pivot pin, and having a second cavity; a slide unit movably received in the first cavity; and a step unit movably received in the second cavity. In particular, the second cavity is configured to communicate with the first cavity, and the step unit is pivotally connected to the slide unit.

Abstract: A vehicle step mounting assembly includes a vehicle frame member, a first mounting bracket and a retractable step assembly. The first mounting bracket is attached to the vehicle frame member, with the first mounting bracket being cantilevered from the vehicle frame member in an outboard direction. The retractable step assembly has a second mounting bracket and at least one step retraction link attached to an underside of the second mounting bracket. An upper side of the second mounting bracket is attached to the first mounting bracket.

Abstract: The truck bed ladder is configured for use with a pickup truck. The pickup truck is further defined with a bed. The truck bed ladder comprises a collapsible ladder and a bed box. The collapsible ladder is stored in the bed box. The bed box mount underneath the bed of the pickup truck such that the superior surface of the bed box is accessible from the bed. The bed box is accessed through the bed of the pickup truck. The collapsible ladder is a structure used by an individual to change elevation. The collapsible ladder is a collapsible structure. The collapsible ladder collapses into a rectangular block structure that is contained in the bed box. The collapsible ladder deploys into a linear structure used by an individual to change elevation.

Abstract: A swing and drop tailgate is configured to undergo two distinct motions, each with advantages depending on circumstances. The swing and drop tailgate can undergo a rotation motion about a hinge, as well as a swing down motion via a linkage. The swing down motion allows closer access to the bed, and extends less far from the rear of the vehicle as compared to the drop motion. The motions may be manually controlled, or actuator controlled. One or more latches may constrain motion, or prevent, of the tailgate. A tailgate assembly may include a post assembly and a tailgate, that may move together as a rigid body when dropping, or move relative to one another when swinging.

Abstract: A tailgate cover assembly including a first panel and a second panel fixed to a vehicle tailgate and connected to the first panel by a first hinge assembly, the first panel being pivotable with respect to the second panel. The tailgate cover may also include a third panel fixed to the second panel by a second hinge assembly and being pivotable with respect to the second panel, wherein in an extended state, the first panel and third panel provide a flat surface on the tailgate.

Abstract: A folding-type luggage panel provided on a main body of a golf cart has a fixed panel and a turnover panel. A fixed support is provided on the fixed panel, the fixed support and the main body of the golf cart are fixed with each other, a rotation shaft is provided on the fixed support and the outer side of the back end surface of the fixed panel, a rotation block is movably sleeved on the rotation shaft and fixed with the turnover panel so that the turnover panel may be rotated around the rotation shaft, and the back end surface of the fixed panel and the front end surface of the turnover panel are matched with each other through a positioning hole and a positioning convex block provided on a joint surface of the bodies of the two panels, so that the bodies are closely engaged with each other.

Abstract: A ramp system for a vehicle storage bed includes at least one longitudinal bed channel defining a longitudinal bed track. At least one longitudinal tailgate channel is recessed into an inner panel of the tailgate, aligned with the bed channel, and defines a longitudinal tailgate track. A lateral tailgate track is recessed into the inner panel and extends substantially transverse to and in communication with the bed/longitudinal tailgate tracks. At least one ramp member has a track member configured to be stowed in the bed channel in a stowed position and slidable in the bed/tailgate channels from the stowed position to a fully deployed position during which the track member moves along the respective bed/longitudinal tailgate tracks and into the lateral tailgate track without having to raise the track member out of the respective bed/longitudinal tailgate tracks.

Abstract: An apparatus for accessing the bed of a pickup truck having a rear bumper and a tailgate includes a step assembly having a lower linkage assembly with first and second ends and being pivotally mounted at the first end to the rear truck bumper; an upper linkage assembly having third and fourth ends and being pivotally mounted at the third end to and proximal the distal edge of the truck tailgate and being pivotally mounted at the fourth end to the second end of the lower linkage assembly; and a step connected to the lower linkage assembly; and includes a handrail assembly including a handrail, a storage locking bracket assembly securing the handrail to the step assembly in an up, closed position, and an erected support assembly for securing the handrail in an upright, user assist position when the step assembly is in a lowered, open position.

Abstract: A deployable step and handle system for a tailgate. The handle is used to secure the deployable step in the stowed position that eliminates the need for a separate release system. The handle is placed adjacent a top edge of the tailgate to prevent debris from being trapped under the handle when the handle is closed. The ladder has a step surface disposed opposite and at an angle relative to a top surface of a spoiler that provides a step surface. The ladder rails are guided by rail guides as the ladder is moved between a stowed position and a deployed position. A unitary support bracket is used to connect both the handle and a ladder rail to the tailgate.

Abstract: A deployable step and handle system for a tailgate. The handle is used to secure the deployable step in the stowed position that eliminates the need for a separate release system. The handle is placed adjacent a top edge of the tailgate to prevent debris from being trapped under the handle when the handle is closed. The ladder has a step surface disposed opposite and at an angle relative to a top surface of a spoiler that provides a step surface. The ladder rails are guided by rail guides as the ladder is moved between a stowed position and a deployed position. A unitary support bracket is used to connect both the handle and a ladder rail to the tailgate.

Abstract: A device for assisting access to motor vehicles having a grip handle moveable between at least one stored position and a deployed position for assisting a user to climb up onto the tailgate and bed of a pickup truck is disclosed. A handle arm having the grip handle at one end thereof is pivotally mounted at the other end thereof onto a mounting bracket which itself is installed at the rear and on one side of a pickup truck bed. The handle arm is pivotally moveable between a deployed position extending rearwardly over the tailgate of the pickup truck and at least one stored position within the bed of the pickup truck.

Abstract: A stake pocket mounting bar for removably attaching a step to a truck bed or other generally horizontal surface, comprising: an anchor member defining at least one open slot for removably receiving a looped end of a strap; a leg member having first and second ends wherein the first end is attached to the anchor member and the second end defines a plurality of teeth. The anchor member may define two open slots. The leg member may define a bend, preferably about a 90° bend between its first and second ends so that when the leg member is inserted into a stake pocket of the truck bed, the teeth will be disposed generally horizontally such that they may engage the side of the truck bed. The anchor may be made of angle iron.

Abstract: A step device mounts on the tailgate of a truck to pivot downwardly and rearwardly from the open tailgate in a working position for providing easier access to the truck box. The step device includes a base fastened onto the tailgate upon which two rails are slidably mounted between retracted and extended positions. A pair of legs are pivotally coupled to rear ends of the respective rails and are joined by a step member opposite the pivoted ends. The base is fully unobstructed between the rails and the area between the legs is fully unobstructed above the step member to remove any tripping hazards in use.

Abstract: A tail gate step for mounting on a tailgate of a pickup truck comprising: i) a base having a downwardly folded rear side portion adapted seat on, the tailgate on the pickup truck; ii) spaced apart parallel slides positioned within a track mounted on the base; iii) step carrying side fold down members each having a top end portion pivoted adjacent to an inner side portion of a rear end portion of a parallel slide; iv) a fold down foot step member having an inner end portion pivoted to bottom end portions of the fold down members; v) folding step stops; and, vi) slide stops limiting forward and rearward movement of the slide within the track, so that the rear position defines an operative position wherein the step side fold down members rotate into a downwardly extending position adjacent to the folded rear side portion of the base.

Abstract: A pickup truck tailgate assembly is provided that includes a primary tailgate adapted to pivotally latch to a pickup cargo box and has an opening formed in the central portion thereof. The assembly also includes a secondary tailgate pivotally attached to the primary tailgate in the central opening. The assembly further includes a pivoting connection connecting the secondary tailgate to the primary tailgate so that a secondary tailgate may pivot downward relative to the primary tailgate. The secondary tailgate may further be deployed to form a step for access to the cargo box and may provide a gate for retaining items within the cargo box.

Abstract: A tailgate assembly for connection to a vehicle body includes a first panel portion configured for hinged connection to the vehicle body, as well as a second panel portion hinged to the first panel portion. The second panel portion is configured to be pivoted from a first position in which the second panel portion is generally parallel with the first panel portion to a second position in which the second panel portion is generally perpendicular to the first panel portion to reduce a first height of the tailgate. In some embodiments, the tailgate assembly further includes a third panel portion hinged to the second panel portion and configured to be pivoted between a stowed position in which the third panel portion extends generally parallel with the second panel portion and a use position in which the third panel portion extends generally perpendicular to the second panel portion.

Abstract: A pickup truck tailgate assembly is provided that includes a primary tailgate adapted to pivotally latch to a pickup cargo box and has an opening formed in the central portion thereof. The assembly also includes a secondary tailgate pivotally attached to the primary tailgate in the central opening. The assembly further includes a pivoting connection connecting the secondary tailgate to the primary tailgate so that a secondary tailgate may pivot downward relative to the primary tailgate. The secondary tailgate may further be deployed to form a step for access to the cargo box and may provide a gate for retaining items within the cargo box.

Abstract: A tailgate ladder assembly includes a pickup bed having a tailgate hingedly coupled thereto. A housing includes a bottom wall, a top wall and a pair of side walls. The bottom wall is attached to the tailgate and has an open end facing away from the bed. A pair of guides is slidably mounted within the housing and each abuts one of the side walls. Each of the guides has a first end that is extendable outwardly of the front end in a deployed position. A bottom ladder includes a pair of legs and a plurality of steps attached to and extending between the legs. Pivot rods extend through the legs and the guides to pivotally couple the bottom ladder to the guides. The bottom ladder is pivotable to be extendable into the housing or to extend downwardly from the tailgate.

Abstract: An apparatus for accessing the bed of a pickup truck having a frame, a rear bumper and a tailgate having a distal edge and being hingedly mounted to the frame includes a lower linkage assembly having proximal and distal ends and being pivotally mounted at its proximal end to the rear truck bumper at a first axis; an upper linkage assembly having proximal and distal ends and being pivotally mounted at its proximal end to and proximal the distal edge of the truck tailgate at a second axis, and being pivotally mounted at its distal end to the distal end of the lower linkage assembly at a third axis; a step connected to the lower linkage assembly; and, wherein the distance between the first and second axes is an effective length LB, the distance between the second and third axes is an effective length LT, and the distance between the first and third axes is an effective length LS, and wherein the ratio of LS to LT to LB to is approximately 2.9 to 1.8 to 4.5.

Abstract: A deployment assembly 16 which selectively and efficiently allows entry and exit into and from the bed 12 of a selectively movable assembly and which includes a plurality of independently movable stair assemblies 202, 204, 206 which may be respectively extended and retracted and then placed in a stored upright position to cooperatively form a tailgate.

Abstract: A deployment assembly 16 which selectively and efficiently allows entry and exit into and from the bed 12 of a selectively movable assembly and which includes a plurality of independently movable stair assemblies 202, 204, 206 which may be respectively extended and retracted and then placed in a stored upright position to cooperatively form a tailgate.

Abstract: A tailgate assembly is provided for a cargo bed of a vehicle. The tailgate assembly includes a support panel and a tailgate panel. The support panel is configured for attachment to a vehicle such that the support panel is selectively pivotable between horizontal and vertical positions. The tailgate panel is attached to the support panel. The tailgate panel is configured to selectively define an end wall for the cargo bed when the support panel is in the horizontal position. The tailgate panel is configured to selectively define a step when the support panel is in the vertical position. A vehicle including a cargo bed having such a tailgate assembly is also provided.

Abstract: A vehicle tailgate side mounted step assist mechanism attachable to a vehicle including a vehicle bed coupled to a pillar and a tailgate pivotally attached to the vehicle bed for providing access to the vehicle bed in a tailgate open position and securing contents of the vehicle bed in a tailgate closed position. The mechanism may include generally parallel supports rotatably mountable to a side of the tailgate, the supports capable of being deployed when the tailgate is in the tailgate open position and stowed when the tailgate is in the tailgate closed position. A tailgate step is disposable between the supports at a predetermined distance from the side of the tailgate, and a lockout device prevents the tailgate from returning to the tailgate closed position when the tailgate step is deployed.

Abstract: A tailgate assembly is provided for a cargo bed of a vehicle. The tailgate assembly includes a support panel and a tailgate panel. The support panel is configured for attachment to a vehicle such that the support panel is selectively pivotable between horizontal and vertical positions. The tailgate panel is attached to the support panel. The tailgate panel is configured to selectively define an end wall for the cargo bed when the support panel is in the horizontal position. The tailgate panel is configured to selectively define a step when the support panel is in the vertical position. A vehicle including a cargo bed having such a tailgate assembly is also provided.

Abstract: A step assembly is easily mounted on the trailer hitch of a vehicle, and easily folded to a closed position or unfolded to an open position in place on the vehicle or off of the vehicle. In the open position, a person or a pet can more easily enter or leave a vehicle. In the closed position, the step assembly is more easily stored.

Abstract: A tailgate assembly is provided for a cargo bed of a vehicle. The tailgate assembly includes a support panel and a tailgate panel. The support panel is configured for attachment to a vehicle such that the support panel is selectively pivotable between horizontal and vertical positions. The tailgate panel is attached to the support panel. The tailgate panel is configured to selectively define an end wall for the cargo bed when the support panel is in the horizontal position. The tailgate panel is configured to selectively define a step when the support panel is in the vertical position. A vehicle including a cargo bed having such a tailgate assembly is also provided.

Abstract: A vehicle tailgate extender mechanism including a tailgate frame having a tailgate bed extender guide, and a bed extender assembly coupled to the tailgate frame and including an extender cross member. An extender guide may be secured to the extender cross member, and an extender support member may be secured to the extender cross member. The extender support member is capable of at least partial insertion into and extraction out of the tailgate bed extender guide. A cargo restraining panel is rotatably coupled to the extender cross member. A ratcheting mechanism may couple the extender support member to the tailgate frame and allow the extender support member to be linearly displaced in a first direction within the tailgate bed extender guide while simultaneously preventing substantial linear movement of the extender support member in a second direction opposite the first direction within the tailgate bed extender guide.

Abstract: A folding ladder is provided for a pickup truck tailgate to assist a person getting into and out of the bed of the truck. The ladder includes a frame hooked to the tailgate, an upper ladder section pivotally connected to the frame, and a lower ladder section pivotally connected to the upper ladder section. The ladder is foldable between a storage position adjacent the tailgate and a use position extending downwardly from the tailgate. The ladder sections reside in a single plane when opened to the use position and nest adjacent the tailgate when in the folded storage position.

Abstract: A step device and method for stepping on or off a tailgate without structurally altering the tailgate. In exemplary embodiment, the step device includes a tailgate step frame and a step assembly pivotally coupled to the tailgate step frame. The tailgate step frame includes at least one frame element in contact with the tailgate and a plurality of strap mounting assemblies for releasably coupling the step device to the tailgate. Each strap mounting assembly compressively fits on the tailgate thereby anchoring the step device to the tailgate. In one aspect, each strap mounting assembly further includes a strap element coupled to the at least one frame element and configured to conform to the predetermined shape of the tailgate. One strap mounting assembly may be interchanged for another of either different shape or dimensions to accommodate a desired compressive fit on any tailgate.

Abstract: A utility ramp having a latching feature to attach the utility ramp to steps mounted on the side of a vehicle. The latching feature provides a means for securing the utility ramp to the steps and allows the utility ramp to be used as a vehicle running board. Further, the utility ramp may include one or more jointed segments to allow the utility ramp to approximate a curved ramp.

Abstract: A compact ramp and tailgate system for a vehicle tailgate includes a tailgate having an interior hollow cavity for collapsible storage therein of a pair of ramps that are also telescopically extendable therefrom for loading and unloading heavy equipment into and off the bed of the vehicle such as a pickup truck with each ramp mounted to a locking hinge that allows the ramps to pivot up to ninety degrees and each ramp composed of at least three ramp members of decreasing size starting from the largest ramp members that are pivotally interconnected to the locking hinges. The ramps are independently pivotable and slidably adjustable left and right relative to the tailgate and the longitudinal extension of the vehicle for properly aligning the ramps with respect to the wheels, rollers, casters, etc., of the equipment to be on loaded and off loaded.

Abstract: A pivotable grab handle device is movable between a stowed position, which is positioned against the main tailgate structure, and a deployed position that projects upwardly above the top surface of a lowered main tailgate structure. The grab handle device is mounted on a retainer bracket that is affixed to the top surface of the lowered main tailgate structure. The grab handle incorporates a spring-loaded latch mechanism that is cooperable with the pivot bracket when in the stowed position and cooperable with a striker plate mounted below the top surface of the main tailgate structure to fix the grab handle in the deployed position. A release lever projecting outwardly of the grab handle permits a retraction of the latch member to release the grab handle from either the pivot bracket or the striker plate to allow pivotal movement of the grab handle into the desired position.

Abstract: According to an exemplary embodiment, and apparatus includes: a non-collapsible single unit stair including: a pair of opposing side rails supporting at least a top step and a bottom step; and a rotator unit including a lower portion secured to a substantially horizontal surface, and an upper portion mounting the non-collapsible single unit stair, wherein the lower portion and the upper portion are rotatable with respect to one another about an axis oriented substantially perpendicular to the substantially horizontal surface.

Abstract: A vehicle tailgate side mounted step assist mechanism attachable to a vehicle including a vehicle bed coupled to a pillar and a tailgate pivotally attached to the vehicle bed for providing access to the vehicle bed in a tailgate open position and securing contents of the vehicle bed in a tailgate closed position. The mechanism may include generally parallel supports rotatably mountable to a side of the tailgate, the supports capable of being deployed when the tailgate is in the tailgate open position and stowed when the tailgate is in the tailgate closed position. A tailgate step is disposable between the supports at a predetermined distance from the side of the tailgate, and a lockout device prevents the tailgate from returning to the tailgate closed position when the tailgate step is deployed.

Abstract: A step assembly for use with a truck load bed has an elongated support member that can be inserted into a hitch receiver. The support is pivotally connected to a step that can be moved into several positions. In a rearward position the step is far enough to the rear of the body of the truck that the step may be stood upon when the tailgate of the vehicle is in an open, lowered position. This allows someone carrying something that is to be loaded onto the truck to approach the truck directly from the rear, to step onto the step and then onto the lowered tailgate. In an alternate, lateral, position the step is adjacent one of the sides of the load box. This allows someone to stand on the step member and reach into the load box to deposit or retrieve some relatively small article when the tailgate is in a raised, closed position. The linkages are constrained to keep a long side of the step perpendicular to the centerline of the truck in both the rearward and lateral positions.

Abstract: A pivoting cage cargo is formed of opposing gate assemblies mounted on the rearwardmost D-pillar of a pick-up truck and movable from a folded, collapsed storage position against the respective side walls of the cargo box into multiple selectable operative configurations. The pivoting cage cargo retainer can be positioned in two different transversely extending positions that span the cargo bed when the gate assemblies are connected together. In one transverse position, the coupled gate assemblies cooperate with a lowered tailgate to provide a bed extension function. The other transverse position spans across the cargo bed to provide a divider function. Each gate assembly is also positionable into a storage container configuration that defines a small cargo retention area adjacent the side wall for the retention of small objects, such as grocery bags. A latching mechanism retains the gate assembly next to the side wall.

Abstract: A tailgate ladder system includes a pickup bed that has a tailgate hingedly coupled to the pickup bed. A bottom wall is attached to the tailgate and a pair of supports is attached to the bottom wall. A pair of guides is provided and each of the guides has a first end and a second end. Each of the guides is pivotally coupled to one of the supports. The guides are selectively positionable in a stored position lying on the bottom wall or in a deployed position vertically oriented when the tailgate is horizontally oriented. A step assembly comprises a pair of legs each having a top end and a bottom end. A plurality of panels is attached to and extends between the legs. Each of the legs is slidably positioned in one of the guides. The legs are selectively positionable in an extended position or in a retracted position.

Abstract: A mount/dismount system for use with a personnel carrier (vehicle) having a substantially flat bed, includes a tubular frame and attachments for holding the frame on the vehicle. Specifically, the tubular frame includes a grip pole that extends perpendicularly from the vehicle bed. It also includes a cross bar that interconnects, and is coplanar with, the grip pole and a support pole. When the frame is attached to the vehicle, the support pole is positioned at a distance “d” from the bed of the vehicle. Additionally, the support pole incorporates a step for concerted use with the grip pole and the support pole by personnel as they mount/dismount the vehicle.

Abstract: A ladder assembly is disclosed that mounts to a truck tailgate. In one embodiment, the ladder assembly includes a base which is coupled to the tailgate. A pair of legs are slidably and pivotably mounted to the based and each pair of legs includes three segments that define upper, middle, and lower ladder sections. A first pair of joints hingedly couples the upper ladder section to the middle ladder section. A second pair of joints hingedly couples the middle ladder section to the lower ladder section. The first pair of joints is larger than the second pair of joints such that when the upper ladder section is folded into the middle ladder section a pocket is formed therebetween for receiving the lower ladder section.

Abstract: A cargo bed step is described including a frame having an upper portion and a lower portion. The frame is disposed proximate a rear portion of a cargo bed. A pivoting mechanism is disposed between an inner surface and the upper portion for selectively pivoting the cargo bed step assembly between a stowed position and an extended position. At least one step is disposed proximate the lower portion. The frame is selectively pivotable to be generally flush with the inner surface of either an inner cargo bed surface or an inner tailgate surface in the stowed position.

Abstract: According to an exemplary embodiment, and apparatus includes: a non-collapsible single unit stair including: a pair of opposing side rails supporting at least a top step and a bottom step; and a rotator unit including a lower portion secured to a substantially horizontal surface, and an upper portion mounting the non-collapsible single unit stair, wherein the lower portion and the upper portion are rotatable with respect to one another about an axis oriented substantially perpendicular to the substantially horizontal surface.

Abstract: A ladder assembly is disclosed that mounts to a truck tailgate. In one embodiment, the ladder assembly includes a base which is coupled to the tailgate. A pair of legs are slidably and pivotably mounted to the based and each pair of legs includes three segments that define upper, middle, and lower ladder sections. A first pair of joints hingedly couples the upper ladder section to the middle ladder section. A second pair of joints hingedly couples the middle ladder section to the lower ladder section. The first pair of joints is larger than the second pair of joints such that when the upper ladder section is folded into the middle ladder section a pocket is formed therebetween for receiving the lower ladder section.

Abstract: A vehicle includes a supplemental tailgate assembly, which includes a tailgate extender that retracts within the tailgate and is extendable therefrom and right and left hand gate assemblies. The supplemental tailgate assembly is able to provide bed extender, box extender, step assist, roof rack, cargo storage area, and box divider functions. The supplemental tailgate assembly is stowable to minimize interference in cargo space when not in use.

Abstract: A tailgate step for use on a vehicle. The step includes a guide rail bracket. A sliding member is arranged within the guide rail bracket. A support arm is pivotally connected to an end of the sliding member. A fact plate is secured to the guide rail bracket. The step also includes a stop plate pivotally connected to the support arm and a cover secured to an end of the support arm.

Abstract: A tailgate ladder apparatus wherein an articulated step ladder is attached to a vehicle tailgate in such a way that it may be stored on a ladder housing within the interior of the tailgate. When the tailgate is open, the ladder may be slid out and opened so that a user may walk up the ladder and step onto the open tailgate.

Abstract: An exemplary embodiment sets forth an apparatus, including a non-collapsible single unit stair comprising: a pair of opposing side rails supporting at least a top step and a bottom step; a coupler adapted to couple the apparatus to an edge of a horizontal surface; and a height adjustable user-support arm, coupled to one of the side rails with a rotatable coupling, wherein the user-support arm is moveable between a support position and a storage position.

Abstract: A tailgate that is hingeably connected to a vehicle and configured to pivot from a closed position to a generally vertical open position includes an inner panel having an inner tailgate surface and an outer panel having an outer tailgate surface. The outer panel is attached to the inner panel to define a pocket therebetween. An opening extends from the inner tailgate surface to the outer tailgate surface and is configured to receive a foot. A step assembly is housed in the pocket and is moveable from a retracted position enclosing the opening, to an extended position revealing the opening. The step assembly includes a stationary frame fixed with respect to the pocket and a moveable frame moveable with respect to the stationary frame. The moveable frame extends from a lower peripheral edge of the tailgate in the extended position.

Abstract: A step tailgate and mounting hardware system is presented where a tailgate can swing down to a position in order to create an intermediate stepping area. The tailgate has a primary hinge that allows the tailgate to swing down from a first position, to a second position. The tailgate has a bracket system that allows the tailgate to swing down to a third position in order to create an intermediate stepping area. The tailgate can move away from the vehicle by an inner arm. When the end of the inner arm reaches the end of the inside swing the inner arm can swing down by the inner and outer swing arms to a point where the swing arms are perpendicular to the main and inner arms. When the tailgate is in the third position the tailgate is below the truck bed, creating a stepping surface.

Abstract: A pivotable grab handle device is movable between a stowed position, which is positioned within a mating cavity formed in the main tailgate structure, and a deployed position that projects upwardly above the top surface of a lowered main tailgate structure. The grab handle device is mounted on a retainer bracket that is affixed to a pivot bracket mounted to the top surface of the lowered main tailgate structure. When pivotally raised into the deployed position, the grab handle allows a person using a supplemental tailgate assembly configured into a step function extending below the plane of the lowered main tailgate structure to be stabilized while climbing onto the cross member of the supplemental tailgate assembly and onto the top surface of the lowered main tailgate structure.