Molly Ayala
Replacing an electric RV awning is a challenging task, but with the right tools and guidance, it can be accomplished in an afternoon. Whether the awning is being replaced due to wear and tear or as part of a desired upgrade, there are several steps to follow. The process begins with extending the awning and removing the roller tube and fabric. This is done by unscrewing the bolts and brackets that hold the awning in place. Once the old fabric is removed, the new fabric can be installed, and the roller tube can be reattached. The spring tension of the awning should also be considered, as adjustments may be required for the awning to function properly.
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What You'll Learn
Prepare the awning for replacement
Preparing to replace an electric RV awning is a challenging task that requires careful planning and execution. Here are some detailed instructions to help you prepare for the replacement process:
Park Your RV and Gather Tools
Park your RV on a flat surface and engage the parking brake. Ensure you have all the necessary tools, such as a power drill, screwdriver, socket set, safety gear, and a ladder. Having a friend assist you is recommended for safety and ease.
Measure and Choose a Replacement Awning
Measure the dimensions of your current awning, including the distance between mounting arms, the projection (how far the awning extends), and the diameter of the roller tube if reusing mechanical components. Choose a replacement awning that matches your RV model and preferences, considering fabric type, size, operation method (manual or motorized), level of opacity, and water resistance.
Prepare the Work Area
Turn off any connected power sources to the awning if it is motorized. Lay a padded surface or tarp beneath the awning to catch loose parts and protect hardware during removal. Cover the upper awning brackets with electrical or masking tape to prevent scratching the RV's side.
Extend the Awning and Secure Assemblies
Extend the awning about 12 inches from the RV. Attach the head assemblies on both awning arms to the vertical assembly using zip ties. Ensure the assemblies are secure to facilitate the safe removal of the fabric.
Remove Polycord Screws and Prepare for Fabric Removal
Remove the polycord screws on both sides of the awning assembly, typically located about 1 inch from the awning fabric. If your awning is older, cut away any sealant connecting the fabric to the track with a sharp edge. Scrape any debris from the track with a flat blade screwdriver.
Prepare for Awning Arm Removal
Pop the awning arms out of their brackets by pulling them outward and away from the RV. Extend the arms until they touch the ground or follow specific instructions for your RV model. These steps will vary depending on your awning's design and condition, so always refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions.
With these steps completed, you will be ready to remove the old awning fabric and proceed with the replacement process.
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Remove the roller tube and fabric
Removing the roller tube and fabric from your RV awning is a straightforward process, but it is helpful to have a few extra pairs of hands to assist you with this task.
First, roll out your awning to about 12 inches from the RV. You can do this by flipping the control lever on the right side of the roller tube, as if you were going to fully extend the awning. Use an awning rod to pull the roller tube out. Check that both arms are resting on the ground so that the fabric is unrolled. Cover the upper awning brackets with electrical or masking tape to prevent scratching the side of the RV.
Now, you can start to detach the roller tube from the head assembly. With the awning extended, secure the head assemblies on each side with zip ties. Then, remove the polycord screw on both sides of the awning assembly. This screw should be about 1 inch from the awning fabric. You will need to detach the tube from the head assembly on both ends. Feed the fabric tube through the awning rail, pulling the roller tube towards the front or rear of the RV as you slide the fixed side of the awning out of the rail. It is important to have a few people help with this step to avoid any damage to the awning. Place the roller tube on a clean, level surface.
To remove the fabric, you will need to take off one of the roller tube's end caps. Remove the three screws that are holding the end cap in place. With the cap removed, you can start to unroll the fabric from the tube. This is easier with an extra pair of hands. Once the fabric is unrolled, remove the polycord screw attaching the fabric to the roll tube. There will be one screw on each end. To remove the fabric, one person should hold the awning fabric while another pulls the roller tube away.
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Purchase a replacement fabric
When purchasing a replacement fabric for your electric RV awning, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, you need to determine the size and compatibility of the replacement fabric with your RV. Measure the length of your RV's awning rail to ensure a proper fit. Don't forget to consider the projection or extension length of the awning to make sure it provides adequate shade and coverage.
The next step is to choose the right material for your replacement fabric. The two primary materials for RV awning fabric are acrylic and vinyl. Acrylic is a breathable material that allows for airflow and dries faster than vinyl. However, it is not entirely water-resistant and can be harder to clean. On the other hand, vinyl resists mildew growth and is easy to clean, but it should not be stored when wet.
When choosing a colour for your replacement fabric, consider the opportunity for colour matching with your RV. Some companies offer a range of colour selections and faded themes that allow for numerous colour matching opportunities.
Finally, consider the durability and ease of installation of the replacement fabric. Look for fabrics that are made from durable materials that can withstand various weather conditions, such as those that are UV-resistant and water-resistant. The SunWave RV Awning Fabric Replacement is a popular choice for electric awnings, offering smooth operation, durability, and an attractive design at a reasonable price.
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Reattach the roller tube
Reattaching the roller tube is a crucial step in replacing an RV awning. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:
Firstly, extend the awning to its full length and remove the roller tube and fabric. This step will expose the inner workings of the awning and allow access to the necessary parts for reattachment. Measure the awning from the inside of each cap to ensure you purchase the correctly sized replacement fabric. It is recommended to use high-quality, heavyweight, tight-weave vinyl for durability and aesthetics.
Once you have the new fabric, insert the roller tube back into the track, ensuring it aligns perfectly. Secure the roller tube in place by bolting the new awning fabric securely. Reattach the small screws that prevent the fabric from sliding, as this will ensure the fabric remains taut and in place during operation.
Now, focus on the main bolts that hold the awning in place. There should be two bolts on each side, totalling four bolts in all. Using a cordless drill with the appropriate bolt tip, securely fasten these bolts. If your awning folds into the side of your RV, a slightly different approach is required. Press the spring inwards and grip the bracket to the left of the roller tube before securing the bolts.
Finally, reinsert the spring assembly into the end of the roller tube. Ensure the awning control lever aligns with the mark on the side of the tube, and check that the rivet holes are also in alignment. Secure the end cap to the roller tube by replacing the rivets with a pop riveter. Retighten the spring assembly by rotating it counterclockwise, using vice grips to hold it securely in place.
By carefully following these steps, you can successfully reattach the roller tube of your RV awning, ensuring a secure and functional setup.
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Secure the new awning
Now that you have chosen the perfect awning for your RV, it's time to secure it in place! Here is a detailed guide to help you through the process:
First, mark the centre of the door or window where the awning will be placed. Use a plumb bob or level to transfer the centre point to the height of installation. Then, mark the centre of the awning itself. Hold the awning up to the desired installation height and use its centre to align with the centre of the door or window.
Next, mark the bracket positions. With the help of an assistant, hold the brackets at both ends and in the middle, using the straight line you previously drew as a guide. Mark the wall through the bracket holes with a pencil. Ensure the brackets are level, and use a bubble or laser level to confirm that the marks are straight and level.
Drill holes for the mounting bracket screws. Depending on the material of the wall, you may need to use specific drill bits (masonry, wood, or metal). For certain wall materials, like brick or stucco, you might need special tools or techniques. Refer to the awning's instructions to determine the correct drill bit size and ensure you are drilling into a stud or other structural component.
Install the brackets with screws. Line up the brackets with the holes you drilled, and insert the screws through the brackets into the wall. Tighten the screws securely with a screwdriver or a drill. Make sure the brackets are firmly attached and level.
Finally, attach the awning to the brackets. Lift the awning up with assistance and slide it into the slots or hooks on the brackets until it locks into place. Depending on the awning, you may use bolts, nuts, pins, or screws to secure it to the brackets. Ensure the hardware is tight and the awning does not wiggle.
Once the awning is secure, you can test it by opening and closing it manually or with a remote control if it is retractable. Check the operation, alignment, and tension, making any necessary adjustments.
Congratulations! You have now securely installed your new RV awning.
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