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SoCalRailFan's avatar
SoCalRailFan
Explorer
May 08, 2015

Popup lift handle question

I have a 2008 Fleetwood Westlake and I'm really getting tired of cranking forever to get the tent up. I'd like to be able to use my heavy duty drill to do it. Is there a handle premade to use with a drill or can someone give me some direction on what I can do.
  • When we had a pop up I bought an extra one just incase I messed up. From there I modified it to be able to chuck into my drill. A little cutting and welding did the trick for me.
    Just be cautious when reaching the stopping points!

    Good Luck!
  • I'm having a hard time just finding another handle. It's 7" from the pin to the bumper and fits into a 3/4" hole where the pin is. Frustrating. I just read where someone took a socket that fits in the hole, the used a dremel tool to cut the grooves in it, says it works like a champ, Going to try that.
  • That would be me (and several others) that have used a Dremel to a socket. I forget the size I ended up using but it was a deep socket plus 3/8" socket extension somewhere along 6 inches. This $3 adapter set from Harbor Freight plus an extension and a deep socket are all you need once you use the Dremel to cut opposing notches in the socket to allow for the pins. Obviously your existing crank is the perfect example of how to make it look.
  • I actually found one on Ebay, that's basically a socket, but looks pro made. Should be here anyday. I look forward to not hand cranking anymore LOL
  • I looked at the Socket Genie but none matched what I needed in description. I emailed the company and never heard back from them. Once I used the right keywording I found the right one on Ebay and cheaper.