I needed a new awning bag, so I decided to get some mods done to my awning bag and AAR at the same time. I had Velcro straps added to the awning bag, so I can Velcro the awing inside the bag, then move to the end of the bag and get the zipper. I also hated tying and using the Velcro to attach the AAR end panels to the awning. They never stayed on tight and would leak in heavy rain. I had the top of the AAR panels cut off and sewn to the awning. My awning now has triangular wings permanently attached on the ends. I had zippers sewn on to the wings and the AAR end panels (where they were cut). Now all I have to do is zipper the end panels on and they are in place and won't pull off of the awning. I have some pictures on my webshots page. I will add more after camping this weekend.:)
That sounds (reads) like a great mod....I too would 'grrr' when attaching the AAR end panels (tying them onto the awning supports), but haven't had any issues as to separation except in a strong wind.