Awning Collapse

Question

The powered Dometic awning on our rig retracts automatically when wind reaches a pre-set level. Supposedly, it is designed for one end to tilt when there is a water load on it so the water will run off. This has happened in the past. Unfortunately, such was not the case two nights ago. During a heavy downpour, water pooled, the awning did not tilt, and finally the weight of the water caused the main hardware to buckle. With some help, we were able to wind the awing up and secure it for our return home and necessary repairs.
Just a word of caution - what is supposed to happen sometimes does not.

GM

bipeflier · Answer

Obviously the arm knobs must be loose and the telescoping arms slicked up with silicone to allow them to "collapse" properly.Sucks  that you had an issue.

dodge_guy · Answer

What year is it? maybe it is still under warranty?

bird_freak · Answer

Mine kept doing the same thing on my Pace Arrow. They eventually figured out the wrong material was on it and it was to short. Would not let the arms extend so they could work correctly.

grey_mountain · Answer

It's a 2006. Not covered. It has worked as designed in the past - just didn't do it this time. I don't know how much of the awning is recoverable. The long tube into which the awning is rolled is what collapsed, and one small bracket on one arm broke. Awning is still good and all other hardware still good. I'll get back home this Friday and see what my very rich-ready-to-retire-because-of-me RV repair guy says.

GM

tin_pusher · Answer

Love that automatic stuff that you have to watch all the time :)

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Awning Collapse

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