Maneuverability Help

[twotwinpeaks]

Originally Posted by laurah

How long after you ordered did you change? I have so much going on that I didn't want to take the time to go see the trailers yet wanted to secure a date. I really need it in the spring of next year but know I want an Escape so will have to figure where to live with three dogs and two birds until November. (I forgot to mention I also have birds.)

Laurah, I changed my order to the 21 on the 9/16/16 after ordering the 19 on 9/7/16. The original build date was 10/2/17 but now for the 21 it is 9/22/17. But since I won't be able to pick it up until November 17 the change in completion dates is not significant.

As others far wiser than I on this site have said, you may want to arrange a visit to view both a 19 and 21 to help decide.

[Mike Lewis]

Laurah-

If you have concerns about backing up, you might want to consider a rear-view camera as one of the options on your trailer. I've gone from "don't think I need it" to "must have" due to my experiences maneuvering my trailer. I just can't get comfortable backing up when I can't see behind me. I also need to practice more.

[flatpick]

learning to backup is easy, regardless of 19/21. learn and practice, alot. I learned when I was 10 on a tractor. Glad my Pop was such a great teacher!

BTW- we live in a 19 full time 6-7 months of the year, 15,000 miles. we have a small terrier and love all the room inside, in front of the door.

steve

[Losangeles]

Originally Posted by Mike Lewis

Laurah-

If you have concerns about backing up, you might want to consider a rear-view camera as one of the options on your trailer. I've gone from "don't think I need it" to "must have" due to my experiences maneuvering my trailer. I just can't get comfortable backing up when I can't see behind me. I also need to practice more.

I have lots of experience backing up our Casita, and yet we still are getting the backup camera on our forthcoming 21'

and we have now learned these Back Up Hand signals - as seen on youtube

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_68jWvHw15w

[Bill and Earline]

Originally Posted by laurah

Hi Bill,
I haven't picked out my tow vehicle yet. I was waiting to pick out my trailer first. I'm really thinking about a full size van to give me the extra storage.
I love the F150s (I work for Ford) but think a van is a better idea. Since I don't get my trailer until next November (Darn!) I have time to look around.

I just spent a couple of minutes looking at the Ford Transit Van offerings. I think that would make a great choice, with the 3.2 diesel or the 3.5 Eco-Boost and zillions of height, length and axle choices. I'd email or call ETI and tell them your situation--that you haven't yet seen actual Escapes or bought your tow vehicle. They might be more understanding if you later need to change your Escape size.

[Brian B-P]

Originally Posted by Bill and Earline

I just spent a couple of minutes looking at the Ford Transit Van offerings. I think that would make a great choice, with the 3.2 diesel or the 3.5 Eco-Boost and zillions of height, length and axle choices. I'd email or call ETI and tell them your situation--that you haven't yet seen actual Escapes or bought your tow vehicle. They might be more understanding if you later need to change your Escape size.

I agree that for this specific purpose - towing a trailer under 5,000 pounds and carrying a bunch of stuff - the Ford Transit is the best fit of the "full size" vans (rather than "minivans") which are currently available. It would be interesting to compare towing performance between the Transit and the F-150, with the same engine (the EcoBoost 3.5L is the only engine available in both models).

There are also

• Chevrolet Express / GMC Savana - heavier vehicle of old design
• Ram ProMaster - modern commercial van but front-wheel drive (great for bulky cargo, not so ideal for towing)
• Mercedes Sprinter - modern commercial van but larger than most would want
• Nissan NV1500/2500 - panel van version of the Titan; small cargo space compared to competitors