Actually, I seem to recall from one of your earlier threads that they did also move the front tandem forward. That would be better, if the center bolster was still the center.No worries. I never measured but they lengthened all the torsion rods so i would think they kept the center pivot point in the center. I will measure it as soon as it stops raining just to know.
For nerf steps, how about a couple of short lengths of chain with a step welded across the bottom - maybe an old wrench?, of maybe that is too cliche'. In any case they will serve as steps but not compromise ground clearance off-road.