Roy,
Thanks for your reply. The camper dealer set the hitch up but I am beginning to question their knowledge. The fact that they were comfortable matching this trailer up with my van and finding out that the brake controller they installed is wired incorrectly and is now discharging my vehicle battery.
I will try playing with the hitch myself to see if I can get it any better, if only to bring it back to the dealer for a trade in.
I guess the XT-300 is new for 2013. We were originally wanting a XT-276 or 245 but those were not in stock at the time. One of these might be what we end up with in the end. Chalk this up to a learning experience.
The XT-300 is a monster for some reason. It's nearly 2000 pounds heavier than the XT-276 and quite heavy on the hitch weight. You mentioned the 276 is listed at 5485. I see it listed at 5110. Either way, I'm sure I could fall much closer within the limits of my E350 van with this trailer.
One thing I can't overlook with my van is the fact that it's an extended version. Ford does not change the wheelbase (13
and instead adds to the rear. This creates a teeter totter effect. I am wondering if I can even level out the load with the distribution hitch. I am also wondering if I should consider any other kind of suspension help.
How do you like the XT-276? If it comes down to trading, we are considering this one. I like the separate garage. I am also considering the XT-245. One big reason for this is that I can fit it in my garage, not the XT-276. Also, It seems by looking at the floorplan of the XT-245, that the combined cargo area would not be as wide due to the folding benches and wheel wells. I have already ordered at bike securing device (boltiton.com) in 95 inches which most likely will not work in the XT-245. Not the end of the world and could be exchanged.
Anyway, I hope to be better informed as so my parents can make a better choice to pull with my van if need be.