>  Date:        7/8/99 1:26:18 PM CDT
>  From:        ken@STATSCI.COM (Ken Baldwin)
>
>  I'm in the market for an awning for my '84 Westy. I've heard of makes such
>  as TransAwn, A&E, Fiamma, et al. I want something simple and reliable.
>  Manual operation is fine. Any recommendations? Thanks,
>
>  Ken

I have the A&E/Dometic "Catalina 2500", in the smallest size (8'2"),
with the "van adaptor kit" to clamp it to the drip rail.  I've been very
content with it so far.  It's easy to put up, and seems well made.
It's a little more awkward to take down, at least for me - I have some
trouble getting all the parts to latch together properly in the case, perhaps
because I haven't had enough practice yet (we've used it about half
a dozen times.)  Still, it's only about a 5 minute job for one or two people.
With the van adaptor kit (apparently designed for the Westfalia - that's
what's pictured in the instructions), you can also remove the whole
awning case or put it back on in about 5 minutes, if you don't want to drive
around with it on all the time.  Available from Camping World
(www.campingworld.com).

                                                 -Steven Sittser