Anyway to correct Lionel 345 Unloader sticky gates?

I have a 90’s version of the 345 Culvert Loader. While unloading the cars, the culverts have a habit of getting knocked off or hung-up when they are being transported through the gates at the top of the ramp. Has anyone else had this problem? If so, have you been able to correct the problem so the gates do not strip the culvert off the crane?

Thanks,

Russ

Remove cover below the gates by pulling straight out. Then stretch the spring until the gates open more easily. Replace cover.