My, I assume Dometic, awning lock lever (if that is what it's called) on one arm remains permanently locked after lifting the handle. I can push the locking button in but it's a slow process erecting, folding up the arm.
Has anyone else broken a locking lever? Are they replacable or does one have to buy the whole arm at around $580 each?
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Warren
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If you don't get it done today, there's always tomorrow!
Thanks Blaze,
It is more like the second site you gave me - there is a reference to RTM & after having a look in their catalogue, mine looks like the lifting handle for the Carefree awning.
I think I have to look through my manuals to see what I have.
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Warren
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If you don't get it done today, there's always tomorrow!
I was looking for the small lever that releases the locked awning roll on our previous van as it was damaged by the previous owner who thought that a hammer was the tool to release the lock when it was under tension.
I was talking to another vanner in a caravan park on the Eyre Peninsula and he had recently had some work done (not awning related) by a repairer in Port Lincoln.
He told me that while he was there he noticed a huge pile of damaged awning rolls stacked up beside his shed.
I was heading down that way so I went around and saw the guy.
He had at least 2 dozen old rolls there with the levers still on most of them.
Long story cut short I produce a 6 pack of my finest lager from the car fridge in exchange for the little lever, went back to the van and fitted it and it worked like a charm.
So, my point is, Dometic want a fortune for the parts or tell you they are not available and you have to buy the complete assembly when probably thousands of awnings are damaged every year and replaced by insurance companies who just instruct the repairer to replace the complete assembly.
Just do a search for caravan repairers in your area and go around to see them. With some luck you will save yourself some money.
Two days ago I replaced my third "Carefree" brand awning handle in five years. I need to be more careful.
They are badly designed where a 20 cent casting snaps, causing a $50 replacement cost. The design of the locating/locking pin is such that the weakest part takes the greatest load when lifting or closing the handle. It is important that the locating pin and hole are correctly aligned before operating the handle as any undue force on the locating pin can cause the casting to snap. To replace the handle you will need a drill and pop rivet gun. The instructions are on the box.
By the way, the handles are available in black or white to match your existing ones.
Been through this pin snapping issue just a few weeks ago and was far from impressed by what I found as serious design flaw. I have access to a few 316 stainless bolts so set to one rainy day and fabricated a couple of hopefully "unbreakable" pins. The bolts were 3/8 UNC with about a 1/4 inch shank. I guess I gotta go easy on the lever now as not so sure I'd fab one of them. The awning is only 5years old and had little use so didn't feel like forking out for more inferiority.
All the best with yours, Bruce
