US Patent 7055838 Folding tailgate mounted step assembly

A folding step assembly for the tailgate of a truck that provides two steps projecting rearwardly and downward and has grab handles for safe and convenient access into the bed of a truck. The step assembly is completely supported by the tailgate and does not touch the ground. It attaches to the inside panel of the tailgate and is completely concealed below the top edge of the tailgate when in the stowed position. The step assembly attaches to the tailgate by means of a Z shaped mounting bracket and lock bracket. The step assembly is locked onto the lock bracket with a lock and key and is easily removable from the tailgate when the user desires.