If you are like me you enjoy camping and RVing in your RV. One of the things I love about my RV is the awning. It provides much-needed shade on a hot day and creates a nice place to relax outdoors.
However, if something goes wrong with the awning, it can be frustrating. If you are experiencing problems with your awning or if it’s just time for routine maintenance here is how to replace the roller tube on an RV awning.
Replacing an RV awning roller tube can seem like a daunting task but it’s not that difficult. So, if you require a new RV awning roller tube, keep reading!
RV Awning Roller Tube Replacement
To replace an RV awning roller tube, you will need the following:
- An RV awning
- New RV awning roller tube
- Rope or bungee cords
- Ladder
- Drill
- 1/8″ drill bit
- 3/16″ drill bit
- 1/2″ wrench or socket
- 5/16″ wrench or socket
8 Steps To Remove Old Awning Roller Tube
There are following steps to remove the old awning roller tube:
- Park your RV in a level spot and extend the awning out. If possible do this on a sunny day so that you can see what you’re doing.
- Start by removing the awning fabric from the roller tube. Do this by unfastening the awning’s end caps and pulling the fabric off of the tube.
- Once the fabric is removed, you will be able to see the awning’s support arms. Using a pair of pliers remove the cotter pins that secure the arms to the roller tube.
- With the cotter pins removed the support arms can now be unscrewed from the roller tube.
- The final step is to remove the old roller tube itself. This is typically held in place by a set screw located near one end of the tube. Unscrewing this set screw will allow you to pull the old roller tube out of its housing.
- Once the fabric is removed, you will see the awning roller tube. There are two end caps on the roller tube, one on each end. Use a 1/2″ wrench or socket to remove the bolts that hold the end caps in place.
- With the end caps removed, the awning roller tube can now be removed from the RV awning arms.
- With the old roller, tube removed you can now install a new one in its place.
Simply reverse the steps above to do so. Make sure to tighten the set screw securely once the new roller tube is in place.
Now that you know how to remove the old awning roller tube you can get started on replacing it with a new one. This is a relatively easy process that anyone can do so don’t hesitate to give it a try.
With a little bit of effort, you’ll have your awning looking like new in no time.
Install the New Awning Roller tube
- With the old awning roller tube still in place, measure the width of the fabric. Add 6 inches to this measurement to allow for overlap when you install the new roller tube.
- Cut the new roller tube to size using a hacksaw.
- Install the new roller tube in the same position as the old one. Make sure that it is level and that there is no gap between the ends of the tube and the wall.
- Put the end caps back onto the RV awning roller tube and secure them with bolts. Use the 1/2″ wrench or socket to tighten the bolts.
- Trim off any excess fabric from the old awning and use it to cover the new roller tube. Secure the fabric in place with staples or adhesive tape.
- Install the new awning arms in the same position as the old ones. It is essential to check that the tubes are level and fit perfectly against the wall with no gaps.
- Once the fabric is in place, you can use rope or bungee cords to secure it to the awning arms. Make sure that the rope or cords are tight so that the fabric doesn’t come loose.
That’s it! You’ve successfully replaced an RV awning roller tube. Now, you can enjoy your RV awning for many more years to come.
Tips for Ensuring your RV Awning Stays in Good Condition:
- Check your awning regularly for any signs of wear & tear and make sure to repair or replace it as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
- Always store your awning in a clean, dry place when not in use, and never leave it out in the sun or rain for extended periods.
- Be sure to clean your awning regularly with mild soap and water, and always allow it to dry completely before folding it up or storing it away.
- If you notice any wrinkles or creases in your awning fabric, you can try gently steam-ironing them out with the garment steamer attachment on your iron.
- If your awning fabric is starting to look faded or worn, you can try applying a UV-resistant fabric protector to help extend its life.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when setting up or taking down your awning, and never force it into place if it doesn’t seem to fit correctly.
- If you have any questions about caring for your awning, be sure to consult with the experts at your local RV dealership or service center.
FAQs-Replace RV Awning Roller Tube
How do you measure an RV awning roller tube?
When measuring an RV awning roller tube you will need to first measure the width of the opening that the tube will need to fit into.
- Next, measure the length of the roller tube.
- Finally, determine the diameter of the roller tube.
These measurements will give you the dimensions that you need to cut the roller tube to size.
Are all RV awnings the same length?
No, all RV awnings are not the same length. Each RV awning is designed to fit a specific size of RV. The length of the awning will be based on the size of the RV that it is made for. You will need to measure the length of your RV before you can purchase an awning that will fit it.
How long do RV awnings last?
RV awnings can last for many years if they are properly cared for. You can extend the life of your RV awning by storing it properly when it is not in use and by regularly cleaning and inspecting it.
If you take good care of your RV awning, it should last for many years.
Can you replace just the fabric on an RV awning?
Yes, you can replace just the fabric on an RV awning. If the fabric on your RV awning is worn or damaged, you can purchase replacement fabric and install it yourself.
You will need to know the size of your RV awning and the type of fabric that was originally used to purchase the correct replacement fabric. Installing the new fabric is a relatively easy process, and you should be able to do it yourself.
What is a standard RV awning size?
The standard RV awning sizes are 20 feet wide and 8 feet long. This size awning will fit most RVs, but you will need to measure your RV to be sure that the awning will fit it. If you have a larger RV, you may need to purchase a custom awning.
How much does it cost to replace RV awning fabric?
The cost of replacing RV awning fabric will vary depending on the size of the awning and the type of fabric that you select.
Replacement fabrics can range in price from $30 to $200.You will also need to purchase a new vinyl weather strip, which will cost between $10 and $20. In total, the cost of replacing the fabric on an RV awning will be between $40 and $220.
What is the Weather Guard on RV awning?
Weather Guard is a type of fabric that is often used on RV awnings. This fabric is designed to resist mildew and UV damage.
It is also water resistant, so it will help to keep your RV awning dry. Weather Guard fabric is a good choice for RVs that are stored in humid or sunny areas. It is also a good choice for RVs that are used frequently.
Wrap Up
If you have determined that your RV awning roller tube needs to be replaced, there are a few different options available to you. You can purchase an after-market replacement tube, or you can try to find and replace the original manufacturer’s part.
If you choose to replace the original manufacturer’s part, it is important to make sure that you get the correct size and type of roller tube for your specific model of RV awning.
With a little bit of research and some careful measurements, replacing your RV awning roller tube can be an easy task that will help keep your camping trips enjoyable.