Molly Ayala
Changing the electric awning on your camper is a relatively easy DIY project that can be done in an afternoon with the help of a few friends. The process involves removing the old awning and fabric and replacing it with a new one. This can be done by first extending the awning and removing the roller tube and fabric, then replacing the fabric, and finally reattaching the tube to your camper.
Characteristics and Values Table for Changing an Electric Camper Awning
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Relatively easy DIY project that can be done in an afternoon with help from friends |
| Materials | New awning fabric, electric or cordless drill, bolt extractor tip, screwdriver, silicone spray, zip ties, electrical tape or masking tape, sharp edge, flat blade screwdriver |
| Process | Cover upper awning brackets with tape, remove screws, extend awning, detach polycord screw and tube, lubricate fabric track, inspect new fabric, feed new fabric through track, secure head assemblies |
| Tips | Consult owner's manual, use high-quality heavyweight tight-weave vinyl, purchase fabric from Solera for heat-welded seams and heavy-duty materials |
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What You'll Learn
Removing the old awning
To remove the old awning from your camper, begin by extending the awning out about 12 inches from the RV. You can do this by flipping the control lever on the right side of the roller tube. Once extended, secure the head assemblies on each side of the awning with zip ties.
Next, you will need to remove the screws attaching the fabric to the roll tube. There will be two polycord screws, one on each side of the awning assembly about 1 inch from the fabric. After removing the screws, ask a friend to help you hold the fabric on one end while you pull the awning roller tube away from it.
Now, you can start pulling the tube off the track to the front or rear of the camper. Make sure you have enough space in front of or behind the camper to walk the awning out completely. If the fabric is stuck in the track, ask another person to help by pulling it from a ladder, or elevate the awning legs with bricks if you're working solo.
Before removing the awning tube, lock the rear spring of the awning by removing the black plastic cap and inserting a Phillips-head screwdriver. Then, head to the front spring, release the tension, and remove it by loosening the bolt holding the arm to the roller tube. Finally, carefully set the awning tube down.
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Preparing the new awning fabric
Firstly, ensure you have unrolled the new fabric and laid it out on a clean, level surface. This will make it easier to work with and inspect. Carefully examine the fabric for any tears, rips, or defects. It is important to catch any issues early on to avoid potential problems later. At this stage, you should also ensure you have the correct size and type of fabric for your awning. Refer to your owner's manual or seek advice from a specialist RV retailer if you are unsure.
Next, it is recommended to lubricate the fabric track with a silicone spray. This step will help the new fabric slide smoothly into the track and reduce friction during installation. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying any lubricant. Once lubrication is complete, you can begin to feed the new fabric into the track.
Now, locate the polycord on the side of the fabric near the valance. This end will be fed into the tube first. Ensure that the bottom side of the fabric is facing the roll tube during installation. Carefully feed the polycord through the track, guiding the fabric as you go, until the fabric is completely on the roll tube. It may be helpful to have an assistant support the weight of the fabric or provide additional guidance during this step.
Finally, once the fabric is in place, you can secure it by reattaching the polycord screw on each side of the awning assembly. Ensure these screws are tightened securely, but be careful not to over-tighten as this may damage the fabric or the screw threads. With these steps complete, you will have successfully prepared and installed your new awning fabric.
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Attaching the new awning fabric
Now, you can secure the new fabric in place. To do this, find the small screws at each end of the awning that prevent the fabric from sliding in the track. Remove these screws with a screwdriver or an electric drill, whichever you prefer. With the screws removed, the fabric should be secure and in place.
If your awning is electric, there are a few additional steps to take. First, extend the awning out about 12 inches and secure the head assemblies on both sides with zip ties. Then, remove the polycord screw on both sides of the awning assembly, located about 1 inch from the fabric. Detach the tube from the head assembly and feed the fabric tube through the awning rail.
Finally, you can reinstall the roller tube. Place the tube onto the fabric, ensuring that the bottom side of the fabric is facing the tube. Secure the tube by reinserting the polycord screws on both sides. Your new awning fabric should now be fully attached and functional.
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Securing the awning
When it comes to securing the awning, there are several steps to follow. Firstly, extend your awning out by about 12 inches, and then secure the head assemblies on both sides using zip ties. This will ensure that the awning remains stable while you work on it. Once the head assemblies are secure, you can proceed with removing the polycord screw on both sides of the awning assembly. Typically, this screw is placed about 1 inch away from the awning fabric.
After removing the polycord screw, you will need the assistance of a friend or two to safely remove the roll tube. Detach the tube from the head assembly at both ends, being careful not to damage the fabric. You can then feed the fabric tube through the awning rail and place it on a clean, level surface if you need to replace the fabric. If not, you can proceed to the next step.
Before reinstalling the fabric, it is recommended to lubricate the fabric track with a silicone spray. This will make it easier to feed the new fabric through the track and ensure a smooth operation for the awning. Once you have inspected the new fabric for any tears or rips, you can begin the installation process. Feed the polycord through the track, starting with the end where the valance is located, and ensure that the bottom side of the fabric is facing the roll tube.
Pull the fabric through the track until it is completely on the roll tube. You may need assistance from your friends again at this stage to hold the fabric taut and ensure it feeds through the track smoothly. Once the fabric is in place, you can secure it by reinstalling the polycord screw on both sides of the awning assembly. Finally, remove the zip ties or other fasteners holding the head assemblies in place, and your new electric awning should be securely installed and ready for use!
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Final checks
Once you have finished replacing the awning fabric, there are several final checks you can perform to ensure it is secure and functional.
Firstly, carefully inspect the awning fabric for any tears or rips. This is important as any damage to the fabric could lead to further wear and tear, or even water ingress. If any issues are found, they should be addressed promptly to prevent further problems.
Next, check that the awning arms are securely attached to the brackets on the side of the camper. Ensure that the brackets are not loose and that the arms are properly seated. This will help prevent accidental dislodging or potential damage during transit.
After that, examine the polycord screw on both sides of the awning assembly. Make sure it is tight and secure, as this screw plays a crucial role in holding the fabric in place. A loose screw could lead to the fabric becoming dislodged or damaged.
Additionally, verify that the awning tube is correctly seated within the track. Gently try to move the tube back and forth to ensure it is secure and won't slide out unexpectedly. This step ensures the stability and proper functioning of the awning.
Finally, test the awning's operation by extending and retracting it. Observe if it moves smoothly and securely locks into place when extended. This final check ensures that your new electric awning on your camper is fully functional and ready for use.
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Frequently asked questions
Changing an electric awning on a camper is a challenging task that requires several people to help. However, with enough helpers, it can be completed in an afternoon.
You will need an electric or manual drill, a flat-blade screwdriver, a Phillips-head screwdriver, and a sharp edge or blade. You will also need silicone spray and electrical or masking tape.
The first step is to extend the awning about 12 inches or 1 foot from the camper. Then, secure the head assemblies on each side with zip ties and remove the polycord screws.
The final step is to feed the polycord through the track so that the fabric is completely on the roll tube. Be sure that the bottom side of the fabric is facing the roll tube when installing.
