Measure the width and length of your current fabric awning using a measuring tape.
Order the replacement fabric for an A&E 8500 awning. You can purchase the replacement fabric from A&E, or from a number of other RV replacement parts dealers.
Remove the end caps from either side of the tube that rolls the awning open and closed, called the "roller tube." Mark the location of your cam handles and drill out the rivet that holds the end cap in place. Once you have the rivet removed, carefully pull out the spring inside.
Use a marker to mark the location of the current fabric awning on the roller tube, so you can place your new one in the same position.
Roll the awning tube open with the help of another person.
Unscrew the two screws that hold the fabric onto the awning rail. With those loose, you can now carefully pull the old fabric off the awning rail, and remove it from the roller tube on the other side at the same time.
File down the edges of the roller tube and awning rail using a metal file. This will help keep your new fabric from getting ripped during installation.
Slide your new fabric (with the poly rope that comes with it for keeping the awning tight) onto the roller tube, and the awning rail. It helps to have that extra person around, so one of you can work the fabric and rope into the roller tube opening and the other can work the fabric through the awning rail. Slide the fabric carefully to prevent tearing. Tuck the poly cords into the tube once you've installed the fabric.
Replace the end caps by by replacing the spring mechanism and installing a new pin to replace the one you drilled out. Replace the screws that you removed on the awning rail, to hold the fabric in place.
