The Thule Smart Panels are accessories designed to enhance the functionality and comfort of your Thule awning system, specifically for models like the Thule 9200. These panels come in two main types: the Thule Sun Blocker Side and the Thule Rain Blocker Side, both available in a 3.00m length. They are designed to provide protection from sun, rain, and wind, effectively extending your outdoor living space.
Function Description:
The Thule Smart Panels serve as modular side walls for your awning, offering versatile protection against various weather conditions.
- Thule Sun Blocker Side: This panel is designed to provide shade and reduce sun exposure. It features a mesh-like material that allows for airflow while blocking a significant portion of sunlight, helping to keep the area under your awning cooler and more comfortable. It's ideal for sunny days when you want to relax outdoors without being directly exposed to harsh UV rays.
- Thule Rain Blocker Side: This panel offers protection from rain and wind. Made from a more solid, waterproof material, it creates a sheltered space under your awning, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors even during light rain or windy conditions. It helps to keep the area dry and can also provide a degree of privacy.
Both types of panels are designed for easy attachment and detachment, allowing users to adapt their awning setup to changing weather and personal preferences. They integrate seamlessly with the existing awning structure, creating a more enclosed and functional outdoor area.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Length: Both Sun Blocker Side and Rain Blocker Side panels are 3.00m long. This specification indicates the width of the awning section they are designed to cover.
- Compatibility: The panels are specifically designed for Thule awning systems, with explicit mention of compatibility with the Thule 9200 model. Users should verify that the product number (e.g., 307298, 307299, 307300 for Sun Blocker; 307282, 307283 for Rain Blocker) matches their awning's requirements.
- Material:
- Sun Blocker Side: Features a permeable, mesh-like fabric for sun protection and airflow.
- Rain Blocker Side: Features a waterproof, solid fabric for rain and wind protection.
- Attachment System: The panels utilize a system of poles, straps, pegs, and clips for secure attachment to the awning and the ground. The Sun Blocker Side includes 1 panel, 1 pole, 4 straps, 4 pegs, and 4 tensioners. The Rain Blocker Side includes 1 panel, 1 pole, 4 straps, 4 pegs, and 2 tensioners.
- Installation Requirements: Proper installation requires a dry, clean, dust-free, and grease-free surface for attaching positioning pieces to the awning housing. A waiting period of 72 hours after attachment is recommended before applying load.
Usage Features:
- Modular Design: The panels can be used individually or in combination with other Thule Smart Panels (including front panels, windscreens, and even QuickFit tents) to create various configurations, offering flexible protection and privacy solutions. Examples of combinations include using two side panels, a side panel with a front panel, or even creating a full enclosure.
- Easy Installation: The installation process involves extending the awning, adjusting its height, assembling the support poles, and then attaching the panels using the provided straps, pegs, and tensioners. The design emphasizes user-friendliness for quick setup and takedown.
- Adjustable Awning Height: For rain, it is recommended to lower one side of the awning to allow water to drain effectively, preventing pooling and potential damage.
- Wind Resistance: The panels are designed to withstand moderate wind conditions. However, in winds reaching 6 Bft (Beaufort scale), it is strongly advised to store the panels and close the awning to prevent damage.
- Enhanced Outdoor Living Space: By adding these panels, users can significantly expand their usable outdoor area, creating a comfortable and protected space for dining, relaxing, or other activities, regardless of sun or light rain.
- Privacy: The panels, especially the Rain Blocker Side, offer increased privacy for campers and caravanners.
- Compatibility with Other Accessories: The manual illustrates how these side panels can be combined with other Thule accessories like front panels (G2 Rain Blocker, G2 Sun Blocker), windscreens (306456), and QuickFit tents, demonstrating a comprehensive ecosystem for outdoor comfort.
Maintenance Features:
- Cleaning: The panels should be cleaned using pure water and a dry, soft brush. Harsh chemicals or abrasive materials should be avoided to preserve the fabric and its protective properties.
- Drying: Before long-term storage, it is crucial to ensure that the panels are thoroughly dry. This prevents mildew, odors, and material degradation.
- Storage: When folding the panels, care must be taken to ensure no hard objects or dirt are trapped within the folds, especially near window sections (if applicable), as this can cause impressions or damage to the material.
- Heat Sources: To prevent damage to the material, avoid placing heat sources (e.g., barbecues, heaters) too close to the panel walls or the roof of the awning.
- Color Fading: Users are advised that prolonged sun exposure can affect the color of the awning fabric and panels over time. This is a normal wear characteristic depending on usage.
- Warranty: Adhering to the installation and maintenance instructions is essential to maintain warranty validity. Incorrect installation, improper use, or unauthorized repairs will void the warranty. In case of needed repairs, consulting an authorized dealer is recommended.
Need help?
To Next Page
General