I purchased a Shady Boy a couple of months ago.  I'm very impressed!  I
can understand your worry about having the awning permanently attached
when looking at some of the other awnings around (Fiamma, Apollo...).
One of the great things about a shadyboy is that they fold up into a
tiny little case.  The case is no longer than the width of the sliding
door, yet the awning, when erected runs virtually from nose to tail of
the van.  I believe the awning comes in under 25 pounds (or thereabouts)
so just consider it a balance to your propane tank...

I'm adding my vote: ShadyBoy Awnings are the best!

Kirk Hockin
'83 Westy "Ariolimax"

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf
Of Doug in Calif
Sent: July 23, 2004 3:20 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: Shady Boy Awning - Initial Impression

I also been watching and trying to figure out what awning product to use
for
my 87 syncro conversation.
I  really like the shady boy size over the full awnings, less is more.
What I do not like about the shady boy is that they do not make it in a
"clamp on" style attachment.
I do not want the awning on there 100% of the time, but would like it
for
"certain" trips.
The one that bus depot sells that you can keep in the van in a stuff
sack
seems the direction I will go.
I want to be able to :"minimize all gear" and why take an aluminum
housing
with you everywhere to have an awning.
Also why have it permanently attached so every time you wash the van
there
is another obstacle in the way.
just my .02.
If shady boy came out with a "shady boy light" version which had a poly
carbonite case and it clamped on they would have what I am looking for.

Doug