Forest River A-frames seem to all use pretty much the same frame components, axles, wheels, tires, etc. So the max gross weight for the trailer is not going to be all that different between models, especially models with the same box size.
What does change between A-frame models is the amount of stuff built into the camper. More cabinets, storage areas, bigger fridges, gray and black water tanks, toilets and showers all build up the dry weight compared to the less basic models. Hence the reduced cargo capacity of the up-line models.
But I find the A-frames in particular very well equipped as they come. In fact, I ended up removing stuff we would never use - the Porta Potty, the RV-que. Others replace the dinette table with something better and lighter. Still others remove the microwave.
Things that are pretty common that add weight back are
1) mattress toppers. We find the A-frame mattress and the dinette delightful with a topper, and unsleepable without a topper. These are generally 30-50lbs each.
2) 2nd battery. The 2nd battery is sufficient for our needs, eliminating a generator or solar panels. But others would have to add on those weights if carried in/on the A-frame.
3) Add-on room and/or awning. We do without due to Colorado winds, others do not.
4) Cooking utensils, plates, cups, silver. We limit ourselves here, total is less than 50lbs. Normally use paper and plastic, but we have 4 piece sets for those special times. Frying pan, small pot, larger pot, stove top grill are sufficient for us. A 2 burner propane stove for the picnic table. 1lb propane canisters.
5) Portable grill. Just 2 of us (4 max) so table top portable is sufficient. Others want to grill big time.
6) Clothing and personal stuff. We have never spent more than a week camping in our A-frame so 1 large gym bag-size duffel per person is enough. We leave a coat and rain gear in camper.
7) Food in fridge. Fridge limits this to maybe 30lbs at most in the non-high wall. Dry and packaged food - maybe another 30lbs on a week trip.
8) Tools. Again, I am conscious to keep this at a minimum. Sockets and wrench to change tires (my tire cross doesn't work), and tighten WDH. Screw drivers, modest electrical tools and supplies are it.
9) Hose and bucket for gray water. Hose and pressure reducer for fresh water. Lego blocks for leveling. Heavy duty 20 amp extension cord in addition to 30 amp cord and 20 amp converter. 2ft level.
All told, we add about 450lbs to dry weight (actually use yellow sticker) plus water (170 lbs, often need to carry water out west). It's not hard to get higher if you have more storage space.
Fred W
2014 Rockwood A122 A-frame (normally about 2800lbs ready to camp)
2008 Hyundai Entourage minivan
camping Colorado and adjacent states one weekend at a time
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