Leaf spring spacing on trailer

[FerrisSJ]

I recently bought a stripped down pop-up camper to convert it into a utility trailer. The cargo area is approximately 6x10 minus where the wheels come in at the middle. I'd like to push the wheels back 1 foot to give it the proper 60/40 ratio for the axle, on top of that, i'd like to push the wheels out to either side of the trailer so that I'll have a true 6x10 cargo area.
So do I need to fill in the space at the middle of the trailer with some box-tubing in order to mount the leaf springs at the outer edge of the trailer, or can i just move the leaf springs back on the same rail they are currently attached to and replace the axle with a longer one?
Right now the leaf springs are double eye-bolt springs mounted approximately 1 foot in from either side of the trailer at the midpoint of the cargo area. This is a light duty trailer, won't ever be hauling more than 2000lbs, including the trailer itself.
Opinions on the matter? I appreciate all feedback on this.

 

[toolbox5]

I'd lengthen the axle then move springs out where they need to be , that axle should have a preload bow to it which will make it tough to put enough tubing over it for a strong splice , if it gets too tough get a longer axle , at least the spring hangers will already be there , give it a go !:thumbsup:

 

[lostcause]

So do I need to fill in the space at the middle of the trailer with some box-tubing in order to mount the leaf springs at the outer edge of the trailer, or can i just move the leaf springs back on the same rail they are currently attached to and replace the axle with a longer one?

if you are widening the track width of the axle so that the wheels are on the outside of the trailer you will definitely need to move the springs out too. if you don't move the springs out you will certainly bend the axle badly. you're adding a lot of leverage by increasing the distance from the spring to the tire. one pothole will ruin your whole day.

the easiest way would be to cut the axle in the middle and sleeve it to the desired width. if this isn't practical due to the camber of the axle, or some other reason, it may be easy enough just to salvage the spindles and then build a new axle out of a piece of pipe or tube. you don't need much of an axle tube for a 2k trailer. some small trailers actually only have a u-shaped stamped sheet metal axle, so any light pipe or tube will likely work.