regular vs light weight

[jamieline]

I'm looking for some input on the differences between the regular weight trailers and the light weight ones?
For instance, the Jayco HT line is light weight and the Eagle are the normal weight. Would some of the differences be in such items as a plastic toilet vs porcelain. Would the frames be similar?
I see you can get a lot of the same equipment on the light weight models so do they scrimp in the insulation?

Any info would be great.

[C_Schomer]

I know my brand isn't made anymore but there was never anything light about them. They had stacked steel frames that were second to none and the coachwork stays VERY solid due to that. The truly light weight RVs we've had were built with MUCH lighter and thinner materials and the coachwork wouldn't stay together under more than the average use we were giving them. It took me 3 RVs before I stopped worrying about weight and actually looking for the heavier one. We've saved a LOT of money as a result. Craig

[laknox]

Artum Snowbird wrote:
A lot depends on what you need for a trailer. If you need a summer camper, and have a good way of keeping it safe and dry in the winter, a light weight is OK, but if you want to travel all seasons where it's not -20 and you like to bounce it about and nothing happens to the insides, then a heavier weight and tougher trailer will be needed.

Many of your questions can be answered by just looking at the underneath of your intended rig. If you see a unit that just has panels underneath, and you are not looking at tanks and drain pipes visible, that is a tougher rig. If you look and see tanks, and flooring up to the height of your living area, well, you are looking at light.

Dunno about that. The Jayco HTs have enclosed underbellies... The 27.5RLTS is on my short list, so I've been over that one a couple times.

Lyle

[Artum_Snowbird]

A lot depends on what you need for a trailer. If you need a summer camper, and have a good way of keeping it safe and dry in the winter, a light weight is OK, but if you want to travel all seasons where it's not -20 and you like to bounce it about and nothing happens to the insides, then a heavier weight and tougher trailer will be needed.

Many of your questions can be answered by just looking at the underneath of your intended rig. If you see a unit that just has panels underneath, and you are not looking at tanks and drain pipes visible, that is a tougher rig. If you look and see tanks, and flooring up to the height of your living area, well, you are looking at light.

[agesilaus]

The only way to make them 'light weight' is by cutting weight. And the weight is cut in the structure of the units. Lighter structure = weaker structure unless expensive materials are used to reduce weight. Aluminum beams instead of steel beams. But that would drive up price and these aren't more expensive. Conclusion weaker structure = reduced lifespan and more prone to damage. YMMV