On Wednesday, May 22, 2013 2:21:07 PM UTC-4, Bill D wrote:
why not use "something like" the already present alignment tabs
near the front of the trailer to take up the load instead of the
hinges? If a top had already moved forward, wedged tabs would
force the top back aft as it was closed. All it would take is
a pair of ball bearing studs on the insides of the bottom half
of the trailer. This way, there would be no horizontal load
at all on the hinges. If I'm imagining this right, the ball
bearing studs and wedged tabs would be far enough forward the
glider wings couldn't contact them.

It should also be possible to implement a wedge and roller
on the outside of the trailer back near the lift struts.
This would force the latches into alignment while relieving
pressure on the hinge plates.

Of course, this wouldn't help with the top open.

Wedge/roller behind the lift struts would take the side
load in tension which would be good. Probably could be
done on the inside. Needs a gradual taper otherwise
you won't be able to close the trailer.

I simply created an adjustable version of what
Spindleberger currently builds in new trailers...

Hope that helps,
Best Regards, Dave