It is getting time to do a bit of refurbishing on our 2003 Carriage Cameo. It is getting the old stripes removed and new ones painted on. While we are at it, we want to replace the original awning that is also showing it's age.We are considering a power awning this time. The current awning is a 16 ft Carefree. The dealer doing the exterior refresh is a Dometic dealer.I know there are pros and cons to power vs manual awnings. I am wondering if there is a big difference between the Carefree and Dometic in quality or durability. From the sites I have researched, it appears the Dometic is more expensive. But is it better? Or is there a different brand I should consider?Any suggestions help. Thanks.Craig

Craig, I have an electric awning and sometimes wish I had a manual.My rig is a 2009 and it came with electric but did not have the arms that are adjustable so you could drop one end for rain. I haven't really checked in on changing the arm out. If you decide not to change out the whole thing, you could just get new fabric and keep using the arms you have.If you do go with the electric make sure it has the arms you can drop for rain. Good luck whichever way you decide to go and Happy Camping.Also the manual awning can be lowered to put on lights etc. I have to get a ladder to do anything to mine.

I've had both manual and electric awnings. There is no doubt that the convenience of an electric on a 5er is superb given that it is so high in the air. However, I wish I had a manual most times. They are very temperamental in even a small amount of wind such that I have to put it up at night often to prevent damage. Can't say which electric is better though.

When I was replacing my awning fabric I was asking the same questions. I really wanted the automatic awning but realized the mounting arms were shorter and I would be left with holes I would have to deal with. In the end, I didn't want plugged holes so I kept my manual awning.

I'd love to have the option of an electric awning delete, but nobody's offering it, even as a "hidden" option.Lyle

New Awning needed. | Good Sam Community

14 Replies

mbrower
Explorer
Feb 03, 2015
When I was replacing my awning fabric I was asking the same questions. I really wanted the automatic awning but realized the mounting arms were shorter and I would be left with holes I would have to deal with. In the end, I didn't want plugged holes so I kept my manual awning.
Justaguy
Explorer
Feb 03, 2015
Solera Adjustable...
greende
Explorer II
Feb 03, 2015
I've had both manual and electric awnings. There is no doubt that the convenience of an electric on a 5er is superb given that it is so high in the air. However, I wish I had a manual most times. They are very temperamental in even a small amount of wind such that I have to put it up at night often to prevent damage. Can't say which electric is better though.
Dandy_Dan
Explorer
Feb 02, 2015
Craig, I have an electric awning and sometimes wish I had a manual.My rig is a 2009 and it came with electric but did not have the arms that are adjustable so you could drop one end for rain. I haven't really checked in on changing the arm out. If you decide not to change out the whole thing, you could just get new fabric and keep using the arms you have.If you do go with the electric make sure it has the arms you can drop for rain. Good luck whichever way you decide to go and Happy Camping.
Also the manual awning can be lowered to put on lights etc. I have to get a ladder to do anything to mine.

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New Awning needed.

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