I am really surprised this didn't kick up

You just said it. Remove everything but the frame and floor sections and that long wide platform will go up and down with ease.Tie in the body and all the other "crap" and you will have provided the necessary rigidity that only three dimensions can provide.I have built a lot of big beefy trailers and they really don't get rigid until you build and weld the sides and ends.Even then they will flex.
Still stiffer than stock.