Im looking at a couple trailers a A213HW 2017 and 2018 with dormer, both appear to be in good shape, I,ve only seen pictures so far as they are a few hours away, but would either be preferred over the other?
The dormer looks like it adds some nice space, or is it just another place to have leaks? At this point the non-dormer is cheaper and a bit closer.
I have a dormer and we like it (have a 2019). Has much more room compared to non-dormer A-Frames I have been in. No issues with leaks. Just do the standard yearly integrity check on chalk seams and repair if needed.
The dormer does add a little weight, and when the trailer is closed for traveling, and depending the height of your tow vehicle, the front is higher and may block the view looking back from drivers seat. I have not found this to be an big problem.
BTW, if you get one, don't raise the roof with the forward storage bin upper door open (don't ask me why I know/learned this)!
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2019 Forest River Rockwood A213HW
We also have the dormer (early 2019 Flagstaff T21TBHW). It was a selling point for us to upgrade from our prev 2014 A122, although our dealer didn't see the dormer as a big deal.
The dormer adds weight (reduces payload), and makes the A-frame even more tongue heavy. It's hard to get tongue weight less than 450lbs.
The dormer feels a lot roomier. You are not sitting with your head in a bubble window at the dinette as I had to on the A22. The high front window is great for light and ventilation without encouraging peeking in.
For used 2018 and 2019 models, expect to have to recaulk seams. And possibly renew rubber seals (check them for condition). That said, I have not had any leaks caused by the dormer. Leaks came from side window seals, and caulk failure where the panels join the side hinges.
Fred W
2019 Flagstaff T21TBHW A-frame
2022 Hyundai Palisade
I have a 2019 A213HW with the dormer and I definitely prefer the dormer. It adds a lot of room for the dinette table and the windows on the face of the dormer are nice for letting in more light and air flow. I did get a water leak where the dormer meets the main roof but it's very easy to fix with some of the mega tape. There is a thread on here somewhere. Some have fixed it with caulk. If you buy the dormer I would add the tape at that joint even if you don't have leaks. As others have said, keeping the tongue weight down to the 10-15% of total weight is tougher but it is manageable. Overall the dormer really gives the package a much roomier feeling
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2019 Rockwood A213HW
2015 Toyota Highlander Limited
well, shes finally home , no dormer, but I think she will do. Drove through lots of snow and crap, 3 hrs there and 3 back, towed nice behind the Ranger, no issue. Now just looking through all the minor bumps and bruises of a used trailer. should be interesting.
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