I purchased a used/homemade trailer for my hybrid foamie/standie build. I've got a small family so need a little more room than the standard tear offers. The trailer was too good a deal to pass up even tho I knew before going to get it that the axle position isn't ideal.
After getting it home, taking off the existing deck and getting some real measurements, the axle is located at 47% from the rear. I know that 40% is what is recommended. My options are to 'cut the butt', move the axle, or build it so the weight is distributed in a way that makes up for the almost centered axle. I've been using the Trailer Balance Spreadsheet.
Before chopping off the end of the frame, or moving the axle, can anyone tell me about weight distribution instead? I realize that weight distribution is a major consideration no matter where the axle is located, so maybe the axle being at 47% isn't really a concern. I've been trying to read up in the forum to find my answer but I'm confused as to how weight in different locations, rear of the axle, forward of the axle, over the tongue, etc... will affect the overall balance/COG. If I'm understanding it correctly, adding weight to the front, or even the tongue, will move the COG forward but adds more tongue weight on the hitch. Adding more weight to the rear of the trailer moves the COG backwards and lessens the percentage of total weight on the hitch?
Am I on the right track with that, or way off? I don't have the ability or means to move the axle or shorten the frame, but if that is the better way to go, then I will find someone who can. But if I can be successful using weight distribution instead, I'd rather go that route, and again, since that is something I have to be mindful of regardless of axle position. Am I going to be OK with the axle where it is or am I better off finding someone who can make some adjustments for me?