Quandry

Crazy? Not really. Just pick a more suitable TV, like the F150 eco...... personally i am not a fan of this motor but lots of people love them. Just dont expect fantastic fuel economy that Ford claims.

Mog, I wouldn't do it. As you probably already know, the E-series vans are on their way out. For my money, the new Transit has neither the hauling capacity nor power to keep up with your demands. By your admission, the Transit will already be hard-pressed to keep up with your current trailer. Suppose you want to upgrade to a bigger trailer in the future, then what? My philosophy is to get more Towing Vehicle than you currently need so that you will be able to pull a bigger trailer when/if you decide to. A 2011 van with as little miles as you have is NOT OLD, in my opinion. Why would you want to take a huge hit on depreciation for a less capable TV, especially with the highway grades you deal with in BC? All in all, it just doesn't add up. JMHO.

Yes, you are crazy.

Put a few thousand into the van and update it. New paint and upholster can do wonders.

I should add that I was looking to the Transit as it has a lot more interior space than the old E-van. I build and fly very large RC aircraft and I would like to be able to carry more than one plane at a time.

I hear all of you regarding the fact that I would be pushing the Transit pretty hard.

Thanks for your responses, this is all just thoughts in my head at this time.

My current van is in TOP shape, requires nothing..I guess I'm a little anal about keeping it perfect.

The Transit is supposed to have available the 3.5L Ecoboost, which has plenty of HP and torque for your needs. If the van is not being given a higher tow rating, it can't be for lack of power. I would try to find out what is the limiting factor: the transmission, the rear end gears, the cooling, the hitch receiver attachment, or something else? Some of these things can be cured with aftermarket mods quite easily.

Could be because it's unibody construction, no substantial chassis?