This sounds more like a toe or lose nose wheel problem that a P-factor problem. Remeber that the original post mentioned that this was the nose wheel that he reduced the travel of. This indicates that it is a trike.

As I understand it (mind you, I am not an aeronautical engineer by any stretch) P-factor has to due with the angle of attack relative to speed and change in rpm. If you have you TAIL-DRAGGER sitting on the field, there is a significant difference in the angle of attach for the right side of the plane than the left. Hmmm...the prop going in the down direction (which is on the right side of the plane) is grabbing more air, as it has a greater relative pitch to the forward travel of the plane. The up (left) side is grabbing less air. The result of this is that if you JAM the throttle, the plane will jump to the left. You can produce the same effect by slowing a flying plane to stall with the nose up and jamming the throttle WHILE THERE IS STILL A GREAT ANGLE OF ATTACK. Again, the plane will jump to the left.

You do not see this with a trike, as the plane should not have a difference in the angel of attack (ie, the tail is not on the ground). Finally, let's not forget that there is a bit of effect from engine torque causing the plane to head left.

All this being said, by rolling into the gas as opposed to laying on it, you realize less of an effect from P-factor. This is why we all learn to roll into the gas when taking off in a tail-dragger.

just my understanding of it all. If somone knows more about this, please let me know.

Zee