We've had our 27-5L for about 18 months, purchased it new and it is easily the best trailer we've owned. As normal to some other brands we had a few minor warranty repairs done but dollar for dollar it's hard to find a better built unit in a comparable price range. What I've noticed is many of the components are not the cheapest opetion they could use. Even has made in the USA stamped on the ABS drainlines.
The owners forum is filled with many helpful owners with discussions even on touchy topics done in a sane manner. Many have traveled far to purchase their rig wheather new or used. While the east and south doesn't have the numbers the west has there are enough out there. In addition to a rally each year in LeGrande,, OR, their is a rally on the East Coast. Northwood is also very good with authorizing warranty work to be done when a dealer isn't close by.
As for trucks, I've hauled ours with both a 3/4 ton and now a 1 ton. On the previous truck I was about 300# over the GVRW but under on all other weights. When we wanted to change from our ext cab short box to a crew cab I really only looked at 1 tons. We also went to a long box. I don't really notice that much difference in how the two haul the trailer and the wheel base of the CCLB does make for a nicer ride than the ECSB did. My opinion, if one doesn't have a truck already and is buying something it may as well be a 1 ton.