Stoughton trailer quality?

I can only speak for 53’ vans. I think they’re better than a Great Dane. I’ve compared quite a few against my last Trailer ( Great Dane) . Most seem to be built better, I currently have a Trailmobile that’s a much better Trailer than the GD. They’re reputation for strength IMO is highly overrated. They’re not all built the same though, I’ve seen some Stoughtons with heavy duty looking bulkheads ( nose of trailer) Stoughton IMO is the best Trailer for the money.

 

For the past 6 years I've been pulling automotive class drop deck vans.
I've never pulled a Kentucky, as they are moving class vans. At least I've never seen an automotive one.
Stoughton does tend to be my favorite. They just seem to have less issues. Stronger bullhead, stronger walls, doors that almost never have to fight to close, etc.

As for the 17.5 vs 22.5 tires... They are more expensive and depending on tire well cutouts, if any, can be a right pain to change. They however wear only slightly faster than 22.5 and tend to have about the same blowout rate. All in all as a driver I don't care either way as they ride the same.

One thing to look for in drop decks is the drop. Automotive freight the drop is 18” while household it's 12"-14”. Just something to keep in mind.
Another point is some drop decks have jacks on the back to lift it up for a conventional door. If you never plan on backing to a dock, get one without. Makes changing the tires, brakes, airbags, etc. much easier.

Another point is to verify king pin setback. Most drop decks require the 5th wheel to be all the way back for mudflaps to clear on a turn. Some though have the kingpin up far enough for the mudflaps to clear. You want a 36” kingpin setback vs. a 48” setback if you can. I've only seen special ordered trailers with the 36" setback. They are far from common.