Cobra trailer latching problem

I'm finding it increasingly harder and harder to latch the aluminum
top of my Cobra trailer after closing it. Investigation revealed the
whole top has moved forward about 1/4 inch (5mm) I believe this was
caused by the gas struts that hold the top in the up position, when
extended, actually apply considerable forward force when in the
closer, or down position. The hinge points look OK and there are no
cracks, but I can see some bending in the aluminum skin just forward
of the pivot bolts (bent forward)
Help, what's the fix?
JJ Sinclair