Rear Hatch/Gate Description and Operation HSV Maloo

The load compartment on this vehicle is enclosed by the hard tonneau cover. When closed the hard tonneau cover is secured to the vehicle endgate via an electrically operated locking mechanism. The hard tonneau cover is opened firstly by releasing the locking mechanism, and elevating the trailing edge of the hard tonneau cover via the swinging brackets attached to both the rear window support panel, and the leading edge of the hard tonneau cover. In the open position, the hard tonneau cover is supported by gas struts mounted between the load compartment sills and the hard tonneau cover. The hard tonneau cover is constructed of polyurethane and consists of two moulded reinforced sections, bonded together.

The hard tonneau cover can be released by operating the hard tonneau cover release switch (1) within the glove compartment, or pressing the hard tonneau cover release button on the key fob (2). The transmission must be in the PARK position for the hard tonneau cover to be released (automatic vehicles).

When a request to open the hard tonneau cover is requested by either the hard tonneau cover release switch (1) or the key fob button (2), the body control module (BCM) activates the hard tonneau cover release relay which allows the hard tonneau cover latch assembly solenoid (3) to operate and release the hard tonneau cover.

The endgate fitted to this vehicle is constructed of two polyurethane moulding's attached to a steel frame, and is not repairable by conventional collision repair methods. The endgate is opened and closed via hinges mounted to the vehicle body structure. The endgate is opened via a handle on the inside of the rear load compartment, prior to which the hard tonneau cover must be opened. The endgate is secured in the closed position via the latching mechanism employed between the endgate, hard tonneau cover, load compartment walls and vehicle body.

In the event that of battery failure, or electrical fault, the hard tonneau cover latch (3) can be released via manual release cables located within the load compartment (1), and the passenger compartment (2). The hard tonneau manual release cables (1 and 2) are also active during normal battery operation.