Just saw the three new responses before my last post.
That van would be a great, practical option. I'd have to look into reliability... one problem, though--miles. I just can't seriously consider buying something with over 200k on the odometer as a daily driver.
That's the other thing getting lost here--I need this to be my daily driver, whatever I buy. I can't afford, nor do I want, to have more than one vehicle--unless the second one is a small motorcycle with great mpg, that I've considered, but even then that seems a luxury that doesn't fit my life right now. I just need to have the ability to pick up and go.
So when I talk about mpg, I'm not talking about mpg when towing. I'm talking about mpg when using as a daily driver. I assume mpg when towing is basically a wash, I don't worry about that. But if I have to commute 30 minutes in and out every day from wherever the trailer is parked, that adds up.
JRscooby:
I'm still surprised that you find the F150 here to potentially not be enough to handle that trailer, especially empty. People tow heavier trailers with lighter vehicles without serious issue regularly. For me, this is probably the sweet spot, but I feel I'm being conservative. Sure, it's not so big that I won't feel the trailer, but that would be overkill. Again, first tow with it will be empty, and it'll be at half the capacity of the truck's base tow limit. Under half, actually--this particular F150, with the 3.73 final drive and tow package, looks to be rated for 5700 pounds. And with the single cab, the payload availability is maximized.
I feel pretty confident this truck will handle the trailer fine, from what I'm reading... Please, though, if I'm wrong, keep telling me, haha.
I do appreciate the feedback.
Oh, and before anyone says it: Don't worry, yes, I have asked on the f150 forum for feedback on the truck as well.
