Re: [VAL] awning Replacements

["Tom" <thomm@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

One of the new awnings I bought for our 34' Classic is 10 feet in length and 
it's a complete awning with fabric, arms, roller, mounting rail, etc.  I 
believe that entire awning came in at about $400.00 or below - I ordered 3 
complete awnings; the other 2 were 47" in length.

I have A&E awnings on our 1969 29' International Ambassador and I say that 
Zip Dee makes a far superior product, bar none.  The hardware on my A&E 
awnings lost plating in spots and the screws are rusty and/or corroded.  I 
paid a bundle of cash back in 1988 for awnings that went all around that 
vintage trailer.  The dealer "helped" me decide to buy the cheaper A&E 
awnings because they told me that the Zip Dees would "leak water" where the 
aluminum pieces hinged together - the hinged parts cover and protect the 
awning when stored.

I mistakenly thought I got a really good buy on my A&E awnings - but 
ownership over the years proved me wrong.  I could have afforded the Zip Dee 
awnings on our vintage trailer back then and I should have purchased them 
instead of the cheaper A&Es.

You really do get what you pay for.  Instead of simply replacing fabric that 
has aged when I get around to it I will instead replace the entire set of 
awnings, hardware and all, on our vintage Airstream.

You have to consider that Airstream would not be installing Zip Dee awnings 
unless they are a really good product and they are.  My opinion would be 
that you should purchase Zip Dees as you can afford them one at a time if 
necessary until your trailer is as you desire it to be.  I don't know of 
anyone who is displeased with Zip Dees but I do know of others who are not 
pleased with those other brands.

Tom Meeker
WBCCI 5303