I have a major problem with the 12v Carefree awning (length 4.5mt) on my 11yr-old Jayco Conquest motorhome. It 'reluctantly and noisily' extends out only about a half-metre and then no further. I have been told that the shaft is probably damaged. I am resigned to replacing it but I'm not keen to get another electric one due to the extra cost and 'unnecessary complication'. So I am considering a Fiama F45. Does anyone have any suggestions? Am I thinking in the right direction?
Geeco said
04:21 PM May 3, 2023
I think the Fiama has nylon gears in the winder area. The alternative is Thule Omnistor that has metal gears. I have had two of the latter on two different motorhomes with no issues. You should also consider an anti flap kit. I use the Aussie Traveller clamp style - highly recommended.
Jayel said
02:45 PM May 5, 2023
Thanks Gary for that useful advice. That is something I had not even thought about. I was more concerned about the ruggedness of the awning itself.
Possum3 said
04:25 PM May 5, 2023
I did a check on some online reviews and the Fiama F45 appears to be well liked and easily installed and operated.
i had a Carefree awning on my Windsor caravan and after it was put out of its misery in a storm last May and sought to have it replaced. After months of supply issues waiting for the ship to arrive from the USA I finally had the whole show removed and had a Dometic hardware and awning fitted.
I am very happy with the new awning and think they are better that the original one I had on the van. Neither of these were electric but perhaps you might consider one of these as well.
Tony Bev said
12:32 AM May 9, 2023
I had a (not electric) Fiamma F45 awning on my RV, and the bookwork did say, that it was only a sunshade, and not to be used in wind or rain
One day I was not quick enough taking it in, and it got damaged beyond repair
I had a Carefree awning (not electric) fitted, and in my opinion, it is twice as robust than the Fiamma
According to the man who fitted it, (through insurance), both brands of awning were about the same price
I have a major problem with the 12v Carefree awning (length 4.5mt) on my 11yr-old Jayco Conquest motorhome. It 'reluctantly and noisily' extends out only about a half-metre and then no further. I have been told that the shaft is probably damaged. I am resigned to replacing it but I'm not keen to get another electric one due to the extra cost and 'unnecessary complication'. So I am considering a Fiama F45. Does anyone have any suggestions? Am I thinking in the right direction?
Thanks Gary for that useful advice. That is something I had not even thought about. I was more concerned about the ruggedness of the awning itself.
www.caravansplus.com.au/reviews/awnings/all/fiamma-f45/~:text=Review%20of%2098655-249%3A%20Fiamma%20F45%20Awning%20Single%20Mounting,easier%20than%20the%20bag%20awning%20that%20I%20had.
i had a Carefree awning on my Windsor caravan and after it was put out of its misery in a storm last May and sought to have it replaced. After months of supply issues waiting for the ship to arrive from the USA I finally had the whole show removed and had a Dometic hardware and awning fitted.
I am very happy with the new awning and think they are better that the original one I had on the van. Neither of these were electric but perhaps you might consider one of these as well.
One day I was not quick enough taking it in, and it got damaged beyond repair
I had a Carefree awning (not electric) fitted, and in my opinion, it is twice as robust than the Fiamma
According to the man who fitted it, (through insurance), both brands of awning were about the same price