you are correct that I need to get it weighed, there just aren't any close scales to me. I'll have to see if I can find one on my next trip out.
so if I understand you correctly by moving the shank out ~ 1" it gives the trailer more leverage, therefore it takes less spring bar pressure to transfer the weight to the front axles. right now I have quite a bit of tilt on the head, should I try straightening that out a bit while staying on the same chain link (5)
I have the feeling if I bring the head angle back, I may find I need to lower the hitch head on the shank which means I'll need a longer drop shank.