Umair Gaines
Removing and replacing an RV awning is a challenging task, but with the right tools and some helping hands, it can be done in an afternoon. The process involves supporting the awning's weight, removing mounting brackets and screws, and carefully disassembling the fabric and roller tube. Once the old awning is removed, you can install a new one by reversing the process and ensuring a secure fit. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the steps involved in removing an electric RV awning, so grab your tools and get ready for a rewarding DIY project!
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| First Step | Remove the two small screws that prevent the fabric from sliding out of the track. |
| Screw Location | One screw is located on each end of the awning. |
| Tools | Use an electric drill or a screwdriver to remove the screws. |
| Next Step | Pop the awning arms out of their brackets and extend them to the ground. |
| Bracket Location | The brackets are located on the side of the RV at the lower end of the awning arms. |
| Extending the Awning | Pull the bottom of the awning arms down to the ground to extend them fully. |
| Alternative Method | For some RV models, you can pull the awning arms upward against the RV instead of extending them to the ground. |
| Further Steps | Roll the awning out about one foot from the RV by flipping the control lever on the right side of the roller tube. |
| Removing the Roller Tube | Ask two helpers to hold the awning 3-4 inches off the ground, and then gently pull the roller tube out of the track. |
| Supporting the Awning | Support the weight of the awning by unclipping the feet of the awning legs and extending them out to the ground at an angle. |
| Removing Mounting Brackets | Remove the mounting brackets that hold the awning to the camper. |
| Bolt Removal | Remove the main bolts holding the top of the awning to the side of the RV. There are two bolts on each side, totaling four bolts. |
| Bolt Extraction | Use a cordless drill with a bolt extractor tip that matches the size of the bolts. |
| Old Awnings | For old awnings, cut away the sealant connecting the fabric to the track with a sharp edge. |
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What You'll Learn
Remove the mounting brackets
To remove the mounting brackets, first, support the awning's weight. You can do this by unclipping the feet of the awning legs and extending them out at an angle to the ground. This will help to bear the weight of the awning while you work.
Next, you need to remove the screws holding the mounting brackets in place. Use a socket wrench to unscrew the large lag screws that attach the mounting brackets to the camper. Depending on the position of the awning legs, you may need to pull the leg and awning away from the camper to access the screws. Once the screws are removed, simply pull back on the bracket to detach it from the camper.
If your awning has awning arms, you will need to remove these before accessing the mounting brackets. To do this, pop the awning arms out of their brackets by pulling them outward and away from the RV. Then, extend the arms until they reach the ground.
It is important to note that the process of removing the mounting brackets may vary slightly depending on the make and model of your RV. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions or seek professional advice if you are unsure.
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Unscrew the bolts
Unscrewing the bolts is a crucial step in removing an electric awning from your RV. Before you begin this step, ensure that you have already extended the awning and that it is firmly supported, with the awning legs set on the ground. This will provide stability and make it easier to access the bolts.
To start unscrewing the bolts, you will need the right tools. Gather a cordless drill and a bolt extractor tip that matches the size of your awning's bolts. Alternatively, you can use a screwdriver if you prefer. For the bolts that are harder to reach, you may need a socket wrench or a ratchet set.
The main bolts you need to focus on are the ones that hold the top of the awning to the side of the RV. Typically, there are two bolts on each side of the awning, making a total of four bolts that need to be removed. These bolts are crucial in securing the awning to the RV, so they are designed to be heavy-duty and secure.
As you work on unscrewing the bolts, be mindful of any debris or residue that may be present. Use a brush or a cloth to clean the area around the bolts before proceeding. Once you have successfully unscrewed all the main bolts, you can carefully set them aside, ensuring that you keep them safe and organised. They may be reused if you plan to reinstall the awning or attach a new one.
If your awning has additional screws or bolts, such as those that secure the awning fabric or prevent sideways movement, don't forget to unscrew those as well. These smaller screws are usually located at the ends of the awning and can be easily removed with a screwdriver or an electric drill. By comprehensively addressing all the bolts and screws, you will be able to safely and effectively remove the electric awning from your RV.
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Remove the roller tube and fabric
Removing the roller tube and fabric from your electric RV awning is a challenging task that will likely require the assistance of one or two other people. Before starting, make sure you have enough space in front of or behind your RV. You should also secure the head assemblies on each side of the awning with zip ties.
To remove the roller tube and fabric, first, roll out your awning about 12 inches (or 1 foot) from the RV. This can be done by flipping the control lever on the right side of the roller tube and using the awning rod to pull the tube outwards. Check that both arms of the awning are resting on the ground.
Next, remove the polycord screw on both sides of the awning assembly. This screw should be located about 1 inch from the awning fabric. Now, you can detach the roller tube from the head assembly on both ends and feed the fabric tube through the awning rail. Choose one side of the awning roller tube and remove the tube's end cap by removing the three screws holding it in place. If your model uses rivets, you will need to drill these out and assemble with new pop rivets.
With the end cap removed, unroll the tube to extend the old fabric completely. This will be easier with the help of a partner. Now, you can remove the polycord screws attaching the fabric to the roller tube on both ends. Once these screws have been removed, have one person hold the fabric on one end while the other pulls the roller tube away from the fabric.
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Measure and purchase replacement fabric
When preparing to replace the fabric on your electric RV awning, it's crucial to measure accurately to ensure a proper fit. Start by measuring the length of the fabric of your current awning from end to end, specifically from the centre of the roller tube to the end caps. You can use a measuring tape to do this.
It's important to note that on some trailers, the arms may not be "truly vertical". Measuring the arm distance at the lower end and the top end could yield a difference of several inches. Therefore, it's recommended to measure the distance from "centre of the arm to centre of the arm" at the roller tube, as this will determine the length of the fabric needed.
Once you have the correct measurements, you can purchase replacement fabric. You can find awning fabric at various retailers, including online stores like eBay and Amazon. When choosing a fabric, consider factors such as durability and price. It's a good idea to research and read customer reviews to ensure the fabric meets your specific needs and preferences. Additionally, make sure that the fabric you choose has the gimp (cords) already installed.
After purchasing the replacement fabric, carefully inspect it and compare it with your measurements to ensure it is the correct size. It is also important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation, paying close attention to achieving proper tension and alignment during the installation for optimal functionality and aesthetics.
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Reattach the tube
Reattaching the tube involves reversing the removal process. First, insert the spring assembly back into the roller tube, ensuring the lever is in the same position as before. You can determine this by looking at the mark you made earlier. Next, reinstall the bolts, holding onto the bracket in the same manner as before, and rotate it back the same number of times. Now, reattach the arm by screwing the bolt back in place.
If your awning folds into the side of your RV, press in the spring and grip the bracket at the left of the roller tube before attaching the bolts. Place the roller tube onto the track and bolt the awning into place. Reattach the two small screws that prevent the fabric from sliding.
Now, reattach the main bolts. There should be two bolts on each side of the awning, making four in total. Use a cordless drill with the proper bolt tip.
Finally, if your awning has legs that extend to the ground, you don't need to worry about it falling off. The spring tension in the roller tube and the legs attached to the base of the RV will hold it up.
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Frequently asked questions
First, you need to extend the awning and remove the roller tube and fabric. You can do this by unscrewing the bolts that hold the awning mounting brackets to the camper with a socket wrench. Once the mounting brackets are removed, you can pull the awning tube out of the track. Finally, remove the screws that hold the fabric in place and slide the fabric out.
You will need a few basic tools such as a screwdriver, an electric drill, and a socket wrench. You may also need a step ladder to reach the awning mounting brackets.
Yes, awnings are heavy, so it is important to support their weight while removing the mounting brackets. You can do this by unclipping the feet of the awning legs and extending them to the ground.
It is recommended to use high-quality, heavyweight, tight-weave vinyl for the best results. However, you should always check the manufacturer's instructions for specific fabric recommendations.
The first step is to remove the screws that hold the awning in place. There are typically two small screws, one on each end of the awning, that need to be removed with a drill or screwdriver.
