Tailgate system for a vehicle with astride opening features

[0035]Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of the drawings. The drawings are representations of various aspects of the present invention, and clearly one skilled in the art would be able to devise other possible means and devices for accomplishing the same features knowing of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0036]In general, the present invention is a means for opening tailgates of vehicles having a horizontally split tailgate. Such a tailgate has a lower door section and an upper door section. The upper door section comprises the rear glass, if such is there, and mounting means of the upper door section to the vehicle. This would include hinges and positive acting struts. The mounting means includes a pair of side guide tracks in the outer frame of the upper door section about the rear glass or panel. The lower door section includes at least four rollers for moving in the guide tracks. A locking and lift handle