Karl,

I am a bit concern also on the fabric tearing at the stitching near the
pockets. Some stitches in those areas are under extreme stress and I
feel there should be better spreading of the point load like the
technique use in sail making. I understand that will add cost but I am
more than happy to pay more for a stronger and longer lasting fabric.

I am seeing some enlarge holes around the center pocket though they are
not tears. I don't know the yeild point of the fabric though I would
like a piece of sample to test with and find out. According to Wolfgang
the standard fabric is extremely tough and very resistant to tear (with
rip-stop characteristic).

- Vince

-----Original Message-----
From: Karl Ploessl [mailto:ploessl@sunmac.spect.upenn.edu]
Sent: Wednesday, July 28, 2004 11:33 AM
To: MC; vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com
Subject: Re: Shady Boy Awning - Pictures

        this is a word of caution: I too have the shady boy awning
installed. I don't know what the PO did, but one of the pockets in
the fabric where the center pole goes, has a hole; probably the pole
went through the fabric at one point due to too much tension? I
'reinforced' the fabric there with duct tape.
--
Karl
'81 Westy "Jenny"
Wilmington, DE