Awning Problems

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Discussion

Pot Bellied Fool

Original Poster:

2,163 posts

244 months

Tuesday 6th May 2014
quotequote all
Rather than hijack the My First Caravan thread, here's a new one!

We got a new awning recently to replace the old, heavy, battered canvas one that came with the caravan (we're newbies too) and it's great but do struggle with putting it up. Any ideas/advice most welcome.

Here's how it should be done - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a30D7C-dGUg

Note the bit at 1:25 where a small pin locates in the bottom of the pole. This takes me all my strength & both hands to bend the pole sufficiently for my wife to get the pin in, obviously not enough slack somewhere! It should just pop in & then the strap adjustment will take care of the rest.

Similarly, we had an issue on our last trip out, Coniston Park (lovely site) and it was raining. A lot. well it is The Lakes! smile

And in spite of the roof being 'curved', water began to pool - ultimately partially collapsing the awning. One of the poles bent sideways and this huge bubble of water was nearly down to the floor. Just reached out the door & pushed the pole back, it flipped back round into the right shape & all the water ran off - delighted a £100 awning stood upto that abuse! But again, any way we can get a better curve on the roof so the water runs off?

Here's a selection of pics from that trip showing how we had it pitched.


The start of the pooling water.

And the outside shots...





...and I thoroughly recommend this cafe in Coniston village. Go for The Sheila's Special!


Rosscow

9,013 posts

170 months

Tuesday 6th May 2014
quotequote all
I think one of the reasons you're struggling is the awning rail height of your caravan.

It looks very low - it's certainly lower than more modern caravans. What year is your van?

Maybe that is why the water was pooling on top?

Pot Bellied Fool

Original Poster:

2,163 posts

244 months

Wednesday 7th May 2014
quotequote all
Rosscow said:
I think one of the reasons you're struggling is the awning rail height of your caravan.
I was wondering that - particularly as I have to have the upright poles (that sit against the caravan side) at their lowest height AND at a bit of an angle to get them to fit. That would sorta fit with the symptoms wouldn't it...

It's a 1992 Lunar Clubman 460-2 EK

Rosscow

9,013 posts

170 months

Wednesday 7th May 2014
quotequote all
Pot Bellied Fool said:
Rosscow said:
I think one of the reasons you're struggling is the awning rail height of your caravan.
I was wondering that - particularly as I have to have the upright poles (that sit against the caravan side) at their lowest height AND at a bit of an angle to get them to fit. That would sorta fit with the symptoms wouldn't it...

It's a 1992 Lunar Clubman 460-2 EK
Yep, I reckon that's the reason you're getting water on the top, and could well be the reason you struggle to bend the pole enough to get the pins in.

hornetrider

63,161 posts

212 months

Wednesday 7th May 2014
quotequote all
Agree with the above. Time for a new van.

























hehe

Pot Bellied Fool

Original Poster:

2,163 posts

244 months

Thursday 8th May 2014
quotequote all
hornetrider said:
Agree with the above. Time for a new van.
I'll let you break that news to SWMBO! smile

Burrow01

1,908 posts

199 months

Friday 9th May 2014
quotequote all
No idea about the awning, but agree with you on the cafe - we went there at New Year and it was excellent smile