Joe, We too had the early 05 front rams, and I believe they did have a shorter throw. There were times I had the same issue as you had.
Both of our failed (leaking on the retract side and dropping while towing) replaced with the newer rams that were much larger in size and I'm pretty sure they have more travel then the previous ones. We have no problems now getting level, and no need for extra wood anymore.
Tom, You are a brave man!!!
but I like it!!
Cheers,
Bill