HF -Kuffel Creek Trailer modification questions

[cfunni]

I am starting my first TD Build. I purchased my 4X8 Harbor Freight trailer, the 1720b Super Duty model. I also purchased the build Plans from Kuffel Creek. I am not building that exact version, but using it as a guide. My question is this. In the Kuffel Creek plans they suggest a few trailer mods. One is to use the center cross members on the side rails , and add a piece of douglas fir as the center cross member. The other mod is to move the axil back towards the rear for proper tongue weight.
I am concerned about the cross member mod. but would love some input if anyone has any experience on this.
Thanks
Craig

[bobhenry]

There are dozens of us on this forum who have modified the tongue of the HF trailer by lengthening it 18 - 24 inches. The rather anemic stock tongue is just too short for good highway manners and makes it a beast to back up. I was more concerned with the flex in the stock tongue causing metal fatigue. This little change essential does the same thing as moving the axle set and in my opinion was much easier. Let me look I will find a couple links for you.........


http://tnttt.com/viewtopic.php?f=35&t=62579&p=1117995&hilit=tongue#p1117995

http://tnttt.com/viewtopic.php?f=35&t=63146&p=1127469&hilit=tongue#p1127469

[cfunni]

Thanks BobHenry
I think thats exactly what I am going to do. Extend the tongue as shown in the second post.
Craig