Despite what some of Ford's charts say, the 2.7 and 3.5 4x4 crew cabs appear to both have the same mid duty HD frame. Many people here including me have verified that by checking their frame sticker.

I'm not sure if the max tow would include the heavier HPP frame or not.

 

there are (i think) 3 different frame types, but I am pretty sure that the 3.5eb always gets a heavier duty frame than the 2.7eb. I have the HD frame in my Screw, whereas most 2.7eb's get the LD frame.

 

There are 3, the LD, HD, and HPP. But as I said, when people have actually checked their frames, I believe every single 2.7 4x4 Screw had the HD. I would bet the OP's old 2.7 was the HD frame. His new one could be the HPP though.

 

On an equal course, with a light (<7K) low aero drag trailer, which it sounds like yours is, similar optioned trucks, a 2.7 truck will get better towing mileage than a 3.5 truck, by several mpg's. I average 16-18 pulling my Kubota tractor on a tandem flatbed, total weight around 5K.

The biggest "difference" you are feeling, compared to your previous truck, I would attribute to:
1) Longer wheel base
&
2) Heavier overall truck weight
Which both together, is pretty significant.

Tow mirrors are certainly nice, and the OEM TBC is superior to any aftermarket set-up for sure.

Enjoy your new truck, and tow safely!

 

Im in a rental screw 6.5bed now and i have to agree the towing is way more stable compared to my screw 5.5.

Not to thread jack but do you feel the 6.5 to ride a bit rougher? Ive been in the 6.5 with 17 wheels for a week now and it rides rough, i had to switch it out today for a new rental(needed oil chage) and they gave me the same truck but 5.5 and its way softer

 

My old truck weighed around 4,700#s. How much more do you think this truck weighs?