Hi Jfet - following your great build with interest
our cargo style bike trailer uses a spring assy above the door and drawbridge cables to assist the door. Advantange - assy is out of the road salt and adjustable. Disadvantage - cables down to the ramp door when it is open. Pulleys and cables what not. Our toyhauler uses torsion springs incorporated in the hinges. Advantage: Out of the way. Light to open and close. Disadvantage - don't appear to be adjustable. Our door flies a bit so we have to weigh it down.
You could incorporate a vertical lift gate in your design to do away with those annoying ramps all together :) Fancy...
Maxon column lift Not sure if one would double as a rear stand to off load the pod from the truck...
