A quick thought on the quick release system - it you were to re-cut the bolt holes into slots lengthwise in your plate you'd have some added peace of mind through swinging the plate 'closed' then sliding it lengthwise a little before tightening it down. This would mean that it couldn't swing open as readily in the event that something 'let go'.

You'd end up with a slot in the non-releasing end, and an L shaped hole in the releasing end of the plate.
Some rubber washers will probably take care of it nicely by themselves.

Simeon.

: Good points Don, I plan to lash the bow and stern if I take it on a
: highway, I was going on a worst case scenario bombing down the
: rough gravel back alleys in my neighborhood shakedown run.
: Have to find some rubber washers now, that will probably save me
: some grief, quick release is great till it quick-releases itself
: at the wrong time, though the odds of all four going at once are
: low, the consequences are high.