Awning replacement question

[Dr_Macaw]

I'm about to get started replacing my Dometic awning fabric. I've watched some how-to videos, and am wondering if both awning tube caps must be removed to replace the fabric. One video shows them both being removed, but I can't see why you couln't get the job done by removing only the cap with the cam-lock.

Please let me know what I'm missing!

Thanks!

[BarneyS]

Moved to Tech Issues forum from DIY.

[Hank_MI]

The cord in the awning fabric that slides into the slot extends past the fabric on both ends. You're supposed to fold it over into the roller tube then replace the end cap. That's supposed to keep the fabric centered on the tube. I did remove both caps when I replaced ours. The fabric we bought does not have a separate valance so once you have it secured to the roller tube in 2 slots, it's not going anywhere. So the question is can you get the old completely out with one end cap on?

The other issue you may run into depends on the replacement fabric. Not all 3 slots in the roller tube are the same size. We had to switch which 2 we used to tightly secure the awning to the tube. Since the left side end cap has a slot to install and remove the pull strap it needed to be removed and repositioned anyway. The right side end cap had to be removed so the lock lever ends up in the correct spot when the awning is closed. Seriously, they're aluminum head rivets and take about 30 seconds to remove. Having both caps off also made it easier to insert and center the awning. Just my opinion for what it's worth.

[shadows4]

CloudDriver wrote:
Did mine a few years back without removing any hardware. See this thread for explanantion and pictures.

I replaced our awning fabric this spring using CloudDrivers thread. 3 people would make it easier. My only recommendation would be to use some type of lubricant in the groove of the awning tube. We had a lot of drag. Good luck, John

[Ron3rd]

X3 on CloudDriver's info, that's what I followed and it saved me a lot of time. One thing I can tell you is you should have 3 people ideally. It can be done with 2 but 3 is better. Those awnings are awkward and heavy.

[Jerallen]

X2 on the link CloudDriver posted. Followed that and replaced mine. Only one cap removed.

[CloudDriver]

Did mine a few years back without removing any hardware. See this thread for explanantion and pictures.

[agesilaus]

I'd email Dometic off their website with the awning seriel number and model and ask for their service manual which tells you exactly what to do. They sent me one via an email reply.