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av0055's avatar
av0055
Explorer
Apr 18, 2016

replacement of dometic awning right side main arm

The A&E dometic 8500 awning on our LQ horse trailer is beginning to show its age (about 10 years). The right side main arm has a crack in the metal at the top of the arm where the latch is located.

Is it possible to replace just this arm? It doesn't look like it would be too hard of a job. My other question is where is the best place to purchase replacment parts for dometic A&E awnings?

Thanks!

1 Reply

  • It would be possible to replace arm. I once had to replace the spring end with the catch on a older trailer, which would be a similar problem. To replace first get a small 'C' clamp and fasten it to gutter, then take a coat hanger wire wrap it around clamp and under end of awning to support it once arm is taken off. This you will have confirm. Set ratchet to out position so that when you take bolt out of top of awing where it secures to arm, spring will not unwind. Place a Vice Grips on shaft for two reasons. To move shaft a bit to get bolt out, and also incase ratchet is In wrong position spring will not unwind. Now you should be able to unbolt bracket from trailer at top, take lower leg out of bottom bracket and arm should come off.

    If you also want to replace the fabric I can help you with that too. Just send me a PM.

    I would check with a local RV dealer and also go on line for price for new arm. Internet may be less, but shipping cost make it more expensive.