what happens if the floats are too short?
ARE the floats too short?
Rule of thumb is for the floats to be 75-80% of the length from the prop washer to the rudder hinge line.
Also, and probably as important, about 5% of the float should be in front of the prop.
Lastly, the step of the float should be about under the balance point of the airplane.
Generally, this all works out so that the step is at 53% of the length of the float, according to Chuck Cunningham.
NOBODY's float installation is perfect.
If you have the nose of the float too short, it's more possible for the plane to nose over. This makes for an awkward and embarassing takeoff run. (WAAAA..bloop) Or, it exposes the prop to the bank (seawall) if you successfully land and taxi in. That would challenge your propellor budget.