"Clint" wrote in message
news:E1Uwe.100510$9A2.11628@edtnps89...
Sounds similar to what was done at our house (before we moved in). The
previous owner built two similar gates, but put in a removable post
between
them. So when he needed the full span, it was a pretty quick process to
pull out the post, and move stuff in and out. But most of the time, the
post and large gate stay in place, and the small gate is used for access.
Of course, if the OP was putting in the gates strictly for the trailer/RV,
it wouldn't make much sense to go through that trouble.

My guess (having not done something like that before) is that 5' wide by
8'
tall wouldn't be a problem, so long as your supporting posts are solidly
anchored. It would be the ones that are 5' tall by 8' wide that would be
more of an issue. The further you move the center of gravity out, the
more
difficult it gets to keep things steady. Moving the center of gravity up
isn't an issue. If you think of it logically, if you grab a 2x6 (8') and
try to hold it steady vertically by holding on to one side, no problem.
Try
to hold it steady horizontally from one end, good luck.


Another approach I have seen done is to simply build the gate with a wheel
attached. Let the wheel hold up most of the weight. When you need to open or
close the gate, you just roll it on the wheel.

One friend who had this loved it. He did have to replace the wheel from time
to time though.