You'll be veryhappy with the Catalina 2500.  We've got the 8'2".  It has
been reliable, easy to open, sturdy and functional for 8 years.  I can open
and close by myself.  No drilling required but to say it is scarless would
be inappropriate since after these many years the clip-on awning braces have
started to wear through the paint.  I see no evidence of undue stress on the
rain rails however after some list advice a couple of years ago I've started
taking it off during the winter months when we don't use it much.  I think
it look pretty good but have seen a couple of sleeker models.  I don't know
if the new models have changed - ours is like a big aluminum cylinder.  Good
luck.

Jim
91 Syncro Adventurewagon
99 NB TDI
Alamogordo NM

> This awning seems to be build well, and connect w/o drilling (no scars,
saw
> one of these on a parked westie not too long ago....looked good).  Does
> anyone on the list have one of these models and how what size.