A & E 8500 Awning, also called Imperial, distributed by Dometic

The Imperial 8500's heavy-duty premium vinyl canopy has the rich, vibrant Horizon Stripe color pattern on top and bottom. The dependable, easy-operating Universal Hardware is available in straight or curved models to fit virtually any vehicle.

-Strong polyester reinforced vinyl
-Patented steel roller tube with a lifetime warranty against rust
-Patented anti-slack rafter pivot
-Smooth, effortless operation
-Exclusive PermaLoop™ pull strap


The Canopy:

 

The colours shown here are available for all sizes of the 8500 awning.

The colour is printed on top and underneath of the vinyle.

 

Why are they different from other models?

Firstly the hardware, that is the arms, braces clips etc are identical to the 9000 model, but are more sturdy and more attractive than the 8300 model. They all function the same.

Secondly, the canopy fabric itself is more heavy duty that the 8300 and is made of layers of vinyl. This would be ideal for extended usage each year of 3 to 6 months and may need replacing in 10 years. If used only for 4 to 6 weeks per year the fabric will last much longer. The fabrics life span will be dictated to how it is stored when not is use. While the first section that is always exposed to elements, even when rolled up will usually be the first to fail.

This life can be extended by covering when not used for extended periods or perhaps the 9000 model shown below will suit your usage better.

 

A & E 9000 Awning, also called Elite, distributed by Dometic



              

The Elite 9000 is A&E's easiest to operate and top of the line, manual awning. The soft, cool, elegant and luxurious woven acrylic fabric "breathes" so it dries quickly and is 22% cooler than vinyl. Exclusive patented Shadow Pattern hues are woven in and fade resistant for long lasting beauty.



Elite 9000's aluminum wraparound weathershield is a series of precisely hinged extrusions that roll to become a sleek canopy case and provide maximum fabric protection. This will add years to the life of the awning fabric as it is only exposed to the elements when in use.



The Canopy:

The colours shown here are available for all sizes of the 9000 awning.

They may be referred to as:

Alpine Green Shadow,
Guld Blue Shadow,
Burgundy Rose Shadow

The colour is woven into the fabric.

Below: Shows the 9000 with the Toyota Coaster Arms.

 

Why are these different to other models?

Firstly the hardware, that is the arms, braces clips etc are identical to the 8500 model.

The main difference is the aluminium wraparound weathershield for the canopy, which protects the fabric from the frost and sun when the awning is not is use, thereby increasing the life span of the fabric.

Secondly, the canopy fabric itself is woven rather than being layers of vinyl. This allows it to breath, so it can be stored wet, and reduces heat under the canopy. The colours are also able to resist fading better, however this is not much of a problem with any model.

Before selecting this model, consider your expected usage and whether a new vinyl in 10 years of heavy use for a 8500 model, may give a better result.