What Tow Vehicle for Escape 19?

[Rossue]

Defensive trolling again are we? No one is knocking your rides, however most prefer a full size when towing a 4K+ trailer it seems. Escape should release data from hooking up new trailers, however that will probably never happen. Doing so wouldn't help push their "Mid-size" works for all models mantra.

Another stat that would be useful for those trying to decide on a tow is how many people have upgraded to full-size after not liking the experience with their mall crawlers or fun trucks. Remember noise causes fatigue- fact- so revving an engine at 5K and not using cruise because of too much downshifting makes towing for many a hassle at least and tiring for many.

That was my experience with two mid-size and I was towing a 17B then. The people who bought my 17B ditched their mid-size within a year for a F-150.

Pile it on boys

[thoer]

Originally Posted by Rossue

...trolling again are we?:

I believe there is quite an appropriate line about calling kettles black....

[Steve Clark]

Originally Posted by Rossue

Remember noise causes fatigue- fact- so revving an engine at 5K and not using cruise because of too much downshifting makes towing for many a hassle at least and tiring for many.

Ross, I agree with you. If this was my experience, I would be the first to upsize to a full size tow vehicle. However, none of these factors occur with our combo. Over 22,000 miles, multiple passs over the Sierras, Rockies, Cascades, and Appalachians. No fatiguing noise, no 5k rpms, no tranny searching.
Granted, I travel at 60 mph and truly enjoy the relaxation of driving. Believe me, if I had your experience, I would change. Fortunately, we guessed right on an everyday driver that can also handle the demands of towing a 4K trailer. Given a side by side trade for a full size, I wouldn’t take it.

Cheers

[Iowa Dave]

Hi Eric
I had 3 good mentors when I became Scoutmaster in the 90s. Initially I was exasperated by the behavior of some boys and some adults. They pulled me aside and tattooed my mind with a couple platitudes that I could turn to when those exasperating events came up and for that matter ones I still use today. “You can’t fix stupid”. So if I’m stupid, nobody is going to fix me. I’m thankful that I can tow all day, back our 21 in with one pass, get down on my knees to hook up, bar b que a pork chop, drink a six pack and sleep like a baby. Why fight? I know the real outcome and life is too short anyway. Off to get a new headlight bulb and a couple new Highlander brochures. Burns out another bulb, I’m trading that dog.
Iowa “ Belgian White” Dave

[wetzk]

Originally Posted by Iowa Dave

Hi Eric
I had 3 good mentors when I became Scoutmaster in the 90s. Initially I was exasperated by the behavior of some boys and some adults. They pulled me aside and tattooed my mind with a couple platitudes that I could turn to when those exasperating events came up and for that matter ones I still use today. “You can’t fix stupid”. So if I’m stupid, nobody is going to fix me. I’m thankful that I can tow all day, back our 21 in with one pass, get down on my knees to hook up, bar b que a pork chop, drink a six pack and sleep like a baby. Why fight? I know the real outcome and life is too short anyway. Off to get a new headlight bulb and a couple new Highlander brochures. Burns out another bulb, I’m trading that dog.
Iowa “ Belgian White” Dave

I just noticed the floormats are dirty in the Tacoma. Do I need to trade it in on a raised F550 4x4 so the struggle to get inside knocks all the dirt off my shoes? Not knowing the trailer is behind me would be a plus I suppose. As long as I do not forget and cut in to close while passing the itty bitty trucks struggling up the hills.

[float5]

The tow discussion to me is about how and where people travel and on what terrain, as well as other factors. If you drive much in the mountains, that is different from others who do not. You may prefer country roads while others are on the Interstates constantly. If you drive fast and are usually in a big hurry to get back to home or work, others who are retired and not on a schedule may be taking their time.

People have their ways of doing things and their interests and they are not the same for everyone. People tend to get the tow that suits their life, not yours.

[KarenH]

Originally Posted by float5

People tend to get the tow that suits their life, not yours.

True words. I would add "comfort level" to the mix.

[gharper]

I agree float5.

I think ETI should keep trailer weights in mind for 19 ft and less sizes so as to continue to attract folks who want to consider mid-sized tow vehicles. I guess the buyer can reduce what options they purchase or perhaps ETI can come up with a "19 light" version with options folks typically want and a few weight saving ideas that they could offer, e.g. one propane tank, maybe some weight savings with the wood cabinets or around the benches/bed, etc.

[Fox hunt]

i think many people do not want to buy a full size truck and drive it everyday to work etc... Some people like driving trucks so are happy to drive one and have the extra tow capacity they give you. If I had not gotten the 5.0 i would tow a 19 or 21 with a new Highlander. I loved towing my 17B with my old Highlander over mountains and where ever i wished with no issues. I also loved driving my Highlander around town without the trailer and most people drive more without towing a trailer then with. My truck is great but I hate parking it in the city. I think people should buy what they want most Escape trailers can be towed with an appropriate mid sized vehicle if that's their desire.

[float5]

Some people do have dedicated tow vehicles. That is a whole different deal. Nice for them, I'm sure.