Newbie information gathering

[LongRoad]

Hello folks,

 

First off, thank you to fellow newbies and experienced Oliver owners who contribute to this forum, we are continuously learning from everyone during our decision making process.

 

We have been pursuing a TT for three yrs now, becoming aware of Oliver since February 2019.

 

We have short listed Oliver given relentless research including this forum, RV shows, Youtube, competitor deficiencies.

 

We have not seen an Oliver yet and are planning to arrange a "see an Ollie" and plant tour when feasible.

 

Our life has been avid full-on four season tent camping/ canoeing/ hiking through mountains globally, to car camping along highways.

 

Primary TT goal is four season capability and boondocking as far off road as can be efficiently handled.

 

OTT of interest: Elite 2

 

Anticipated TV: 2019 6.2...or wait for 2020 F250 4x4 7.3L gasser with 430's pending on offered specs.

 

Our first questions: manual adjust awning. We are considering 2 awnings.

 

2019 brochure appears to show a Dometic awning on front page mounted to E2 with 3 colour options listed, i have read about Carefree as well.

 

Assuming both are available in manual:

 

1. Under typical usage without considering high wind or extra staking, how would D or CF awning mechanical and fabric performance be rated/ described over long term?

 

2. Is partial awning opening throughout stroke typical... to utilize as window shade or keep rain out of open windows. If so, would trailer anchored legs adjust close to vertical orientation?

 

Any feedback is appreciated, including how to most efficiently utilize this forum

[KountryKamper]

The Care Free is no longer available and you would be getting the Dometic. It is offered in manual or powered as a option. The Dometic is free standing and has no legs. It can be opened in a partial position anywhere along the stroke. The pictures of the awning you are looking at with legs are old pictures and that awning is no longer offered.

[KWRJRPE]

Hull#444 (Elite II) took delivery April 4, 2019, with the new Dometic power awning (I am all in favor of buttons and switches whenever available).  We love it! Can extend partially, or full length.  Has remote control that also powers LED lights on the awning.  Sensor will auto retract awning if wind is too much.  No vertical secure poles to get in the way.  We do not extend the awning too often, and always retract at night or when absent from the camper.  I forget the option charge for the powered awning, but, well worth it in my opinion.  We did not elect to get the 2nd awning for street side.  Being new, everything is bright and shiny so I cannot comment on long-term maintenance considerations.