Duke,
I have made two RV purchases in the past 6mos...The reason is our first purchase was totaled in an accident, nobody hurt. During this time I have had a lot of experience with RV dealers, and one of the most amazing things I have noticed there are many sales people in this business have no clue about what they are selling. You would think if you spent your days around this equipment some knowledge would soak in but it doesn't because their interest is in closing the deal.
I have read your posts and I appreciate your concerns, but the issue with the slides not fitting properly is not normal and can be adjusted, contrary to what the dealer had to say.
Regarding the awning, I would examine the list of standards and options published by Heartland and use this as your guide. If you have questions about options the dealer cannot answer go to the website and you will get answers. In the end Scott will give the most accurate information.
I asked a lot of questions of the members of this forum before I ordered my Bighorn and I can't tell you how reliable the information has been.
I would also suggest that if the dealer looks to be unreliable with information and service before the sale you should probably be concerned about the service after the sale.
I drove 2300mi to purchase my Bighorn to get the best deal from a dealer I felt had the best knowledge of the product (RVs For Less). I had a choice of two dealers within 75 miles of my home and Knew the poor reputation of one and the other could not come close to the price. My previous 5th wheel, a Montana was purchased from a dealer 30 miles from home and had no idea about service after the sale.
The key is find a unit you like then find a dealer that will treat you with honesty and respect. There are going to be some issues with most rigs you purchase so it is important to do a thorough PDI when you take delivery and have it taken care of before you sign the final papers.
If you are not a person that enjoys working on the unit and requires a service department then you should put the service department as your highest priority in the purchase.
Finally I must say I am extremely satisfied with my purchase of a Hearlland product. I am especially impressed by the involvement of Heartland management to the needs of the customer, which is very difficult to do when you are working your business through dealers and distributers.
Good luck on your decision.