DIY Guide: Replacing Your RV Awning – A Step-by-Step Tutorial
Replacing your RV awning might seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools, a little patience, and this comprehensive guide, you can save hundreds of dollars by doing it yourself. A worn-out or damaged awning not only detracts from the appearance of your RV but also fails to provide crucial shade and protection from the elements. This article will walk you through each step of the process, from selecting the right replacement awning to safely installing it, ensuring you can get back to enjoying the great outdoors under the comfort of a brand-new shade.
## Why Replace Your RV Awning?
Before we dive into the how-to, let’s briefly discuss why you might need to replace your RV awning in the first place. Common reasons include:
* **Tears and Rips:** Exposure to sun, wind, and rain can weaken the awning fabric over time, leading to tears and rips.
* **Mold and Mildew:** If not properly cleaned and maintained, awnings can become breeding grounds for mold and mildew, which can be difficult to remove and potentially harmful to your health.
* **Broken Hardware:** The arms, springs, and other mechanical components of the awning can break down or become damaged, rendering the awning unusable.
* **Faded or Unsightly Appearance:** Even without significant damage, an old awning can simply look faded and worn, detracting from the overall appearance of your RV.
## Choosing the Right Replacement Awning
Selecting the correct replacement awning is crucial for a successful installation. Here’s what you need to consider:
* **Awning Type:** There are primarily two types of RV awnings:
* **Manual Awnings:** These awnings are operated manually, typically using a crank or pull strap. They are generally less expensive than electric awnings but require more effort to operate.
* **Electric Awnings:** These awnings are operated with a motor and switch, making them much easier to extend and retract. They often come with additional features such as wind sensors and remote controls.
* **Awning Size:** The awning size is determined by the distance between the awning arms. Measure the existing awning carefully to ensure you purchase the correct size replacement. Awnings are typically measured in feet and inches.
* **Fabric Type:** RV awnings are typically made from either vinyl or acrylic fabric. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages:
* **Vinyl:** Vinyl awnings are generally more affordable and water-resistant. However, they can be prone to cracking in cold weather and may not breathe as well as acrylic.
* **Acrylic:** Acrylic awnings are more breathable, fade-resistant, and durable than vinyl. They are also less prone to cracking in cold weather. However, they are typically more expensive.
* **Color and Style:** Choose a color and style that complements your RV’s exterior. Consider factors such as sun reflectivity and personal preference.
* **Brand Reputation and Warranty:** Research different awning brands and read reviews to ensure you are purchasing a quality product. Check the warranty offered by the manufacturer.
Before ordering, double-check all measurements and specifications to avoid any surprises during installation.
## Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials. Having everything on hand will make the process much smoother.
* **Replacement Awning:** The correct size and type for your RV.
* **Drill or Impact Driver:** For removing and installing screws.
* **Socket Wrench Set:** For loosening and tightening bolts.
* **Screwdrivers:** Both Phillips head and flathead.
* **Measuring Tape:** For accurate measurements.
* **Ladder:** To safely reach the awning.
* **Safety Glasses:** To protect your eyes from debris.
* **Work Gloves:** To protect your hands.
* **Pliers:** For gripping and manipulating small parts.
* **Utility Knife:** For cutting fabric or straps.
* **Awning Rail Lubricant:** For easier awning insertion.
* **Butyl Tape or Sealant:** To seal any gaps and prevent leaks.
* **Helper (Recommended):** Having a second person to assist with lifting and maneuvering the awning is highly recommended.
* **Vise Grips or Clamps:** To hold the awning fabric in place.
* **Penetrating Oil (Like WD-40):** For loosening rusty bolts.
* **Rivet Gun (If Required by your awning type):** Some awnings use rivets to secure the fabric.
## Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Now, let’s get to the actual installation process. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a safe and successful awning replacement.
**Step 1: Preparation and Safety**
* **Park Your RV on a Level Surface:** Ensure your RV is parked on a level surface and that the wheels are chocked for safety.
* **Disconnect Power:** If you are working with an electric awning, disconnect the RV from shore power and turn off the battery disconnect switch to prevent accidental operation.
* **Clear the Area:** Clear the area around the RV to provide ample workspace.
* **Gather Your Tools and Materials:** Have all your tools and materials within easy reach.
* **Wear Safety Gear:** Put on your safety glasses and work gloves.
**Step 2: Removing the Old Awning**
This step can vary slightly depending on the type and model of your awning, but the general principles remain the same.
* **Retract the Awning:** If the awning is still functional, retract it completely. If it’s broken and cannot be retracted, carefully roll it up as tightly as possible and secure it with straps or tape.
* **Secure the Awning Arms:** If the awning arms are still attached, secure them in the retracted position. Some awnings have locking mechanisms, while others may require temporary clamps or straps.
* **Detach the Awning Fabric from the Roller Tube:** This is a critical step that requires caution. The roller tube contains a powerful spring that can cause serious injury if released unexpectedly. There are several methods to relieve the tension:
* **Method 1 (Most Common):** Locate the tension release mechanism. This is usually a ratchet or pawl mechanism on one or both ends of the roller tube. Use a screwdriver or wrench to carefully release the tension, one click at a time, while holding the awning fabric firmly. Have your helper assist in controlling the awning’s movement. Gradually release the tension until it is completely gone.
* **Method 2 (If No Ratchet):** If there is no visible ratchet mechanism, you’ll need to manually control the spring tension. Securely clamp the awning fabric to the roller tube using vise grips or clamps. Carefully unwind the fabric from the roller tube, counting the number of turns. As you unwind, the spring tension will decrease. Continue until the tension is completely gone. **This method is more dangerous and requires extreme caution.**
* **Remove the Awning Fabric from the Awning Rail:** Once the tension is relieved, the awning fabric can be removed from the awning rail. The awning fabric is typically attached to the rail with a spline (a flexible plastic or fabric cord). Locate the end of the spline and pull it out of the rail. You may need to use a utility knife to cut the end of the spline if it is frayed or damaged. Once the spline is removed, the awning fabric should slide out of the rail. Have your helper support the awning fabric as you remove it.
* **Detach the Awning Arms (If Necessary):** Depending on your replacement awning, you may need to detach the awning arms from the RV. These are typically attached with bolts or screws. Use a socket wrench or screwdriver to remove the fasteners and detach the arms. Save the hardware if you need to reuse it for the new awning.
* **Remove the Roller Tube Assembly (If Necessary):** Some replacement awnings require you to reuse the existing roller tube assembly. If this is the case, carefully remove the roller tube assembly from the RV. This is typically attached with brackets and bolts. Save the hardware if you need to reuse it.
**Step 3: Installing the New Awning**
Now that the old awning is removed, you can begin installing the new awning.
* **Prepare the Awning Rail:** Clean the awning rail thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or old sealant. Apply awning rail lubricant to the rail to make it easier to slide the new awning fabric into place.
* **Slide the New Awning Fabric into the Awning Rail:** Carefully slide the new awning fabric into the awning rail, ensuring that it is properly aligned. Have your helper support the awning fabric as you slide it into place.
* **Attach the Awning Fabric to the Roller Tube:** This step will vary depending on the type of awning. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. In most cases, you will need to insert the awning fabric into a groove in the roller tube and secure it with a spline or screws.
* **Re-Tension the Roller Tube Spring:** This is another critical step that requires caution. You will need to re-tension the roller tube spring to provide the necessary force to extend and retract the awning. The process is essentially the reverse of releasing the tension. There are two primary methods, mirroring the removal process:
* **Method 1 (With Ratchet):** Insert the roller tube into the awning arms and secure it temporarily. Use a wrench or screwdriver to wind the spring tension, one click at a time, until the desired tension is reached. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct tension. Secure the ratchet mechanism to hold the tension.
* **Method 2 (Without Ratchet):** Securely clamp the awning fabric to the roller tube using vise grips or clamps. Wind the fabric onto the roller tube, counting the same number of turns you unwound during removal. Ensure the tension is correct. Secure the fabric to the roller tube according to the manufacturer’s instructions. **This method is more dangerous and requires extreme caution.**
* **Attach the Awning Arms:** Attach the awning arms to the RV, using the original hardware or the hardware provided with the new awning. Ensure that the arms are properly aligned and securely fastened.
* **Test the Awning:** Once the awning is fully installed, test it to ensure that it extends and retracts smoothly and that the fabric is properly tensioned.
**Step 4: Final Adjustments and Sealing**
* **Adjust the Awning Tension:** Fine-tune the awning tension as needed to ensure that the fabric is taut and wrinkle-free.
* **Seal Any Gaps:** Use butyl tape or sealant to seal any gaps between the awning rail and the RV to prevent water leaks.
* **Inspect the Installation:** Carefully inspect the entire installation to ensure that all components are securely fastened and properly aligned.
## Tips for a Successful Awning Replacement
* **Read the Instructions Carefully:** Before you begin, read the manufacturer’s instructions thoroughly. This will help you understand the specific requirements for your awning and avoid any potential problems.
* **Take Your Time:** Don’t rush the installation process. Take your time and pay attention to detail. This will help you avoid mistakes and ensure a successful installation.
* **Get Help:** If you are not comfortable working on your own, don’t hesitate to get help from a friend or a professional RV technician.
* **Use the Right Tools:** Using the right tools will make the installation process much easier and safer.
* **Be Careful with the Spring Tension:** The roller tube spring is under a lot of tension, so be careful when releasing and re-tensioning it. Always wear safety glasses and work gloves.
* **Lubricate Moving Parts:** Lubricate all moving parts, such as the awning arms and hinges, with a silicone-based lubricant to keep them operating smoothly.
* **Clean Your Awning Regularly:** To prolong the life of your awning, clean it regularly with a mild soap and water solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
* **Inspect Your Awning Regularly:** Regularly inspect your awning for signs of wear and tear. Repair any damage promptly to prevent it from getting worse.
## Troubleshooting Common Issues
* **Awning Won’t Extend or Retract:** Check the power supply (for electric awnings), the roller tube spring tension, and the awning arms for any obstructions.
* **Awning Fabric is Sagging:** Adjust the awning tension to tighten the fabric.
* **Awning is Leaking:** Seal any gaps between the awning rail and the RV with butyl tape or sealant.
* **Awning Arms are Sticking:** Lubricate the awning arms with a silicone-based lubricant.
## Safety Precautions
* **Always Wear Safety Glasses:** Protect your eyes from flying debris.
* **Wear Work Gloves:** Protect your hands from cuts and abrasions.
* **Disconnect Power (Electric Awnings):** Prevent accidental operation of the awning.
* **Be Careful with the Spring Tension:** The roller tube spring can cause serious injury if released unexpectedly.
* **Use a Sturdy Ladder:** Ensure the ladder is stable and properly positioned.
* **Have a Helper:** A second person can assist with lifting and maneuvering the awning.
## Conclusion
Replacing your RV awning is a manageable DIY project that can save you money and improve the appearance and functionality of your RV. By following these step-by-step instructions and taking the necessary safety precautions, you can successfully replace your awning and enjoy the comfort and protection it provides for years to come. Remember to consult your awning’s specific instructions for detailed guidance, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re uncomfortable with any part of the process. Happy camping!