RV Patio Awning Fabric Replacement - Tough Top Awnings Discount Code RVGEEKSROCK - 5% Off Your Order

REPLACEMENT SLIDE TOPPER & AWNING FABRIC DISCOUNTS! Tough Top Awnings now offers a special discount for RVgeeks viewers! Use the discount code "RVGEEKSROCK" at checkout for a 5% discount on your entire order at toughtopawnings...
UPDATE! WE'VE LEARNED A NEW AND IMPROVED (EASIER!) WAY TO DO THIS JOB. WATCH THE DETAILS HERE: • How to Replace RV Pati...
Our favorite type of DIY RV project is one that's both surprisingly manageable and also saves a lot of money. Replacing your RV's patio awning fabric fits that description really well. A confident DIY RVer with a couple of friends can handle this job just fine, saving well over half the cost of having it done at an RV shop. If you thought that replacing your old vinyl main awning was out of your league as a Do-it-Yourselfer, watch this first and you just might change your mind!
Here's our entire playlist of awning & slide topper videos:
• AWNINGS & SLIDE TOPPERS
TYPICAL TOOLS REQUIRED FOR REPLACING AWNING & SLIDE TOPPER FABRIC, AVAILABLE ON AMAZON:
Locking Oil Filter Wrench: amzn.to/2BDI3Or
Folding 7' Step Ladder: amzn.to/2np3YnH
Dewalt Cordless Drill: amzn.to/2DIv2Fb
Tape Measure: amzn.to/2DW1wiz
Silicone Spray: amzn.to/2BCuPBF
Utility Knife: amzn.to/2DYbdNq
Pop Rivet Tool: amzn.to/2BCfcu9
Pop Rivets: amzn.to/2DKvDGD
Cable Ties - 11": amzn.to/2nl71gy
8" Wire Cutters: amzn.to/2DL6AmK
10" Flat File: amzn.to/2DMYNFa
Torx Bit Set: amzn.to/2nnnqkE
We know that a lot of people are afraid of "The Spring!" on an awning, but under the personal guidance of Tough Top Awnings owner Ray Oberreuter, we saw how the whole process was really manageable.
This install is for a Dometic A&E patio awning.
We purchased slide topper replacement fabric a few years ago from Tough Top Awnings. When we opened the box, it was immediately obvious that it was superior to the original fabric (double-stitched, very tight weave and noticeably thicker) and also less expensive than OEM replacement material. Their main patio awnings are no different. Excellent quality at a great price.
Ray was very responsive when we had questions during the ordering process and he obviously takes pride in making a superior product at a lower price. When we decided to replace our bedroom slide toppers last year, it was a no-brainer to order from Tough Top Awnings again. You can get more details by visiting their website:
www.toughtopawn...
The piano music is my own performance of Scott Joplin's Maple Leaf Rag from 1899.
WONDERING WHAT'S THE BEST GEAR TO USE ON YOUR RV?
Here's all of our favorite equipment that we use ourselves and recommend to friends:
thervgeeks.com/...
Join us at TheRVgeeks.com for more great RVing content!
Full-Time RVers since April, 2003, we share DIY (do it yourself) RV maintenance, repair, travel, upgrade and operational tips & tricks.
Many RVers are eager to learn more about using, maintaining and caring for their rigs. We hope our experience can help others go DIY, saving time & money, plus the satisfaction of a job well done.
We're handy RVers, not professional technicians. We're happy with the techniques and products we use, but be sure to confirm that all methods and materials you use are compatible with your equipment and abilities. Regardless of what we recommend, consult a professional if you're unsure about working on your RV. Any task you perform or product you purchase based on any information we provide is strictly at your own risk.
We sometimes receive products for evaluation at no cost, and The RVgeeks participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. But our opinions are our own, you won’t pay an extra penny, and we only link to products we personally use, love and can recommend to friends with complete confidence.
Comments welcome! Thanks for watching! Don't forget to subscribe! #RVLIFE #RVDIY #RVLIVING #FULLTIMERV #RVREPAIR #RVMAINTENANCE #RVMODS #RVUPGRADES #RVTRAVEL #DIYRV #RVGEEKS

[@haroldschorr2572]

This is a great video. Two of us changed the fabric, a support arm and one spring of a 16 foot awning in three hours! No horror story here.

[@cameracuties14]

What a great ! Just finished putting a 20' awning on with my wife as my helper plus my son and girlfriend helped slide the new awning back on the camper. Less than 2 hours from looking for the tools to having the tools put away, Thank you for your video.

[@RVgeeks]

We love to hear stories like that! Thanks so much for sharing.

[@mikebuckley46]

2 hours two people that’s 4 hours That’s why the rv guy charges $200 or more

[@jimm9818]

I followed these instructions exactly. I was able to remove and install the awning on the rollerbar by myself. I only needed help to put it back up. Instructions are perfect for a Dometic awning. Thank you!

[@RVgeeks]

Great to hear, Jim! Thanks for letting us know! 😊

[@divergene]

These instructions were right on the mark. We purchased the awning fabric from Tough top Awning and had no problems at all. It only took 2 hours to replace and are now enjoying a Tap-it IPA!!! mmmmmmbeeeeer! Thanks

[@RVgeeks]

Awesome! So glad that the video helped out. We love our Tough Top Awnings slide toppers. Ray is the best (after beeeer that is). ;-)

[@orangethorpedo]

Thank you for making this video it is by far the most informitive video on replacing your awning fabric on KZbin! This is my first awning fabric replacement and it was a job I wasn't looking forward to but my wife, son and I just completed the job on a 21 foot awning in around 2 hours! Every step from the tools and materials list at the beginning to the removal and reinstallation of the awning in the rest of the video made this job easy to complete! Thanks again!

[@RVgeeks]

That's so great to hear William. Glad we could help. Did you by any chance use Tough Top Awnings for the fabric, and if so what did you think?

[@joemeller9573]

Just used this video to replace our awning with a Tough Top Awning. Taking our time so we did it right and going step by step it took less than 2 hours. Thanks RV Geeks.

[@RVgeeks]

Awesome! Thanks for sharing that. :)

[@scottwall4669]

Easy going and I didnt have to cook for my helpers!!! In and Out is always a good bribe!!!! So issues I had....the top rail was packed full of dirt after a mere 10 years outside and very little roof cleaning. I took a wire brush to the rail then power blasted with the hose. I was in no hurry and let it dry while I did the 360 vents. To spin the tube tight I used a rubber strap oil filter wrench. Worked great and I had visions of the Vice grips turning like a Helicopter rotor into a body part... I usually injure myself once per trailer project. None today!! I went ahead and gave it one extra twist and it turned out fine. I also hit the spring with WD 40 on the rusted parts. If you have this style awning, locate yourself some sort of additional strap to keep it secure while on the road. A big bump in the road can cause the bars to unlock and the wind will take it away. I use a dual "D" ring(like a motorcycle helmet strap) to lock it closed when not in use. Power awnings usually lock when not in use. Screws in the bottom were pulled out a bit and rusted. I used new screws that were a little longer and in they went with the little bit of Dicor self seal I had remaining from the 360 vents. I have written this in many Geek replies...do not try to save money by purchasing 1-2 dollar chalk from Lowes or Home Depot. It is not made to roll down the highway. It is made to fill a crack in a wood fence. You have to Buck up and spend the 12 dollars on Dicor or (OUCH) 16 buckaroos on Surebond SB 140 when doing the skylights. Thanks John and Pete

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks for the great input on how your awning project went, Scott. Love that you didn't sustain even a single injury on this one! :)

[@derrickknutson5720]

This is a great video. We replaced the fabric on a 13-foot awning on a Rockwood Roo, and this video worked perfectly for that. It’s got step-by-step instructions, and if you do everything like they do in the video, you can probably do this in under 2 hours.

[@WayBackMachine60s]

Excellent video. It took us just over an hour to do the whole thing. No place to put a screwdriver in to hold the spring, so we took both ends off. Made unrolling and re-rolling the fabric much easier; just spin the tube! Piece of cake!

[@RVgeeks]

+Paul Fredricks Excellent!

[@WayBackMachine60s]

+Chris Edwards yes, just unwind it with the vise grips and count the turns. no big deal.

[@WayBackMachine60s]

+Chris Edwards the tension is fairly light, at least it was on mine. Mine is 13' wide. I think I did it myself. there is enough room to put the vise grips on the shaft between the bracket and the tube.

[@aligky]

Awesome Job! This is very very helpful for a do-it-yourself'er such as myself. Many thanks to all the folks who took part in this excellent how-to video.

[@RVgeeks]

So happy to be of help Ali! It was really fun and rewarding. And really special for us having Ray from ToughTopAwnings as our lead on the job. He's a really decent guy.

[@PainlessChiropractor]

Excellent instructional video! We were able to modify it to replace an awning pole that collapsed in a storm. We saved the awning, and with your great step-by-step instructions we knew all we needed to replace the pole. A 5 hour repair job (with 2guys and some clever ladder support). Thanks!

[@JimBessey]

Thank you a dozen times! I'd have made at least a dozen errors had I done this tricky job by the seat of my pants! (I'm a pretty good mechanic.) My wife and I replaced our 13' awning in under 3 hours, with a key hold-up related to the fabric we bought, not your instructions. I did also, as mentioned in Comments, cut the top fabric free of the awning roller to make removal simple. Thanks for a SUPERB video tutorial!!

[@RVgeeks]

So great to hear, Jim! That's awesome. Thanks for letting us know we were helpful. Means a lot.

[@michaellayman945]

This is a great video. The steps were very straightforward and 3 of us replaced an 11' awning in just over an hour. Just follow the steps exactly and you can save a lot of money. BTW, I bought a tough top replacement awning. I also like that they tell you exactly what you need at the beginning, so no last minute delays.

[@RVgeeks]

Awesome Michael! Great to hear. Thanks for letting us know.

[@johnknestis3851]

The step by step instructions are spot on. Unfortunately the guy I bought the camper from had already purchased a cheap replacement and we had to push the cords through the pockets and there was only one cord pocket connecting the fabric to the roller. To anyone reading this, buy a good replacement awning from the guys RV Geeks recommend and not cheapo ones from Walmart.

[@RVgeeks]

Hi John! Sorry to hear the previous owner went that route with the awning fabric. Tough Top Awnings is definitely far superior than anything else we've ever seen. It's obvious just by looking at it. And it even comes with the cord installed already!

[@andreagreenwald5435]

so, we are doing this tomorrow. I typed up notes, with screen shots and made all the menfolk watch this video....wish us luck!

[@RVgeeks]

Andrea Greenwald Good luck Andrea! Please let us know how you make out.

[@andreagreenwald5435]

RVgeeks Help! it's an electric awning! do you have a youtube video? is there a spring in there?

[@RVgeeks]

Andrea Greenwald There are elements of it that should be the same, but we've never done an electric awning, so we're not sure. The details we showed were specific to that particular type of manual awning. What brand is it? You'll probably find some instructions from the manufacturer if you you Google your brand, but not likely a video like ours. Let us know if you find something!

[@nickhawk]

I thought instructions would come with the new awning, I was wrong. This video was great. It was simple to understand and each lsmall detail was shown on the video. Thanks RV Geeks

[@matthew8896]

Done! Thanks, I watched the video in detail, took my wife & I and a neighbor less than 2 hours. Thank you

[@RVgeeks]

+Matthew Swaggerty Awesome! Great to hear. 😊

[@matfortier9310]

Thanks so much for posting this video. I watched it about 5 times to really get the steps down, then did my own. I hate to say it was easy, but after enough repetition, it was. Thanks again!!!

[@RVgeeks]

Great to hear, Mat! Thanks for letting us know. :)

[@charlesking8843]

Thanks so much! We just replaced my parents awning while on a camping trip in just a few hours start to finish! Great video thanks! And $16 worth of harbor freight tools!

[@RVgeeks]

That is awesome Charles! Thanks for sharing. Glad our video helped out. :)

[@guidobenedit1]

Great video, now I need helpers, that's the difficult part of replacing the awning. Thanks.

[@patrickobryan1817]

This was the most helpful video of the group. Was able to do this with 1- 1/2 people my wife is not real good on ladders but was able to help at points. Her and a couple of saw horse did the trick. learned enough about changing this awning that we were able to cut out a good corner of the old cover and replace the slideout topper . Would post pictures if there's a place to do so.

[@georgebarron9240]

Thank you for making this video. I used a combination of a few different techniques, but your video was the overall template I used. Worked great, and saved me several hundred dollars! One tip I would be in additioin to using the silicon spray on the tracks would be to put it on a paper towel and lightly polish the aluminum spindle (the spacing between the awning track and the valance track) - made the fabric glide right over it.

[@RVgeeks]

Great to hear you had a successful installation, George. And thanks for the additional tip! 😊

[@bjbeaird4373]

Great video!! I put one up with just the help of my wife and 14 year old daughter and this video. Thanks!!!

[@RVgeeks]

That's awesome! So glad we could be of help. Thanks for sharing!

[@Gruss1973]

Thanks for posting this. I replaced my fabric today and the video made it super easy. I still have my fingers attached.

[@neilnrobinson1261]

Great video, well made. The replacement of my 16 foot awning went smooth following the details of this video . Greatly appreciate the time invested in making this video. Thanks!

[@RVgeeks]

That's so great to hear, Neil! Thanks for letting us know the video was a help... and hope you're enjoying your new patio awning! Stay cool in the shade!

[@squeezy33]

i was going to follow your instruction to change mine. a across the way was watching and offered his help. thank god! we removed the old one in 5 minutes by simply cutting it and sliding it out. first we drilled a 3/8" hole in line with the valence channel which was covered by the roller cap, then filed a slot to allow the valence to be removed. we extended the awning fully then removed the arm bracket on the side we were sliding the new awning in ( the front in this case ) we only had to remove the 2 bolts and drop 1 arm. we cleaned the channels and lubricated them with lots of dish soap mixed 50/50 with water. with 2 guys guiding the new awning and 2 guys pulling it, we set it in place on the roller and the camper at the same time and just pulled it gently along. literally in 10 minutes it was done. we reinserted the stop screw, seem sealed the top seam and caulked the top. We took the time readjust the arms so they lock in place on top, which they never would before. All together we took about 45 minutes, 25 of that was adjusting the arms. I realized we modified the end cap of the roller by drilling it but it was a 2002 model and there was no warranty to void. I'd personally recommend this way for anyone that has an older model camper. curious about your thoughts on this.

[@RVgeeks]

squeezy33 This sounds really interesting, but we have a question about one part of it. If we understand correctly, you drilled out the roller tube to allow the beading in the fabric to be slid out without removing the end cap, very much like what we did here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n3eYept9htqEo5Im16s. If that's the case, it seems like you should then have been able to remove the old fabric and install the new fabric without removing any other hardware. But you mentioned that you "removed the arm bracket" by removing the bolts and "dropping 1 arm." If the channel was drilled out to allow the fabric to slide in and out without removing the end cap, why was it necessary to also remove the bracket & arm? Very interested in your method, and would like to be able to picture exactly how it works. Also, what brand is your awning? Thanks!

[@leighdaniels6360]

+RVgeeks yes we did remove the leading an from the camper. this was not absolutely necessary except that the two people feeding the fabric were to short to reach up comfortably. it made it much easier and we were more able to control the new fabric being fed in the roller and preventing it from accidentally tearing. I understand your video shows the proper way of doing this without modifying the end cap, which would void any warranty, but my camper is 15 years old so, what the hey! thanks for your reply. your video was still very helpful and very detailed. it would have worked 100%. but after we replaced the first end cap and put the canopy to its original condition, it was literally 10 minutes max and we were done. there new canopy looks and works great.

[@louisianafatbastard]

Thanks for the great informative video. I have been "leary" of replacing my awning, but am feeling pretty confident now after having viewed your work here. Thanks a million & Happy Trails.

[@larryshotts8600]

Mac Dearman p

[@RVgeeks]

Jerry Dewlen Thanks for the additional information Jerry! Sounds like you got the job done really well, despite the curve ball.

[@dewaynefanchier589]

Thanks again!! Everything went off without a hitch. Easier than I thought it would be!

[@RVgeeks]

Congratulations and thanks for letting us know! 👍😊

[@davidgi1665]

Thanks for the video! Following your instructions my girlfriend and I were able to replace our 18' awning in about 4 hours. By far the most difficult task was sliding the new fabric into the tube. Disclaimer: I didn't purchase my fabric from your link which might account for the difficulty.

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks David! great to hear we could be of help. :)

[@aaronaaron4155]

I have a 1974 See More that needs a new awning so this was very helpful. The awning isn't original, it's exactly like the one shown here.

[@RVgeeks]

Hi Aaron! Before you try this method, we have a new way (even easier) to do the exact same awning: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rJ_bdX-GedSJecU

[@aaronaaron4155]

Nice, I'll check it out. Thanks

[@suzanned5636]

Thanks for the video. My husband and successfully replaced our awning!!!

[@RVgeeks]

Awesome!!

[@eleigey]

Awesome vid guys gonna be replacing one on my fifth wheel and this vid refreshed my memory on how to do it. 😃

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks Ed! But we recently uploaded a new and much improved technique for this same model of awning. Check it out here, and we're sure you'll prefer it! kzbin.info/www/bejne/rJ_bdX-GedSJecU Of course you still save 5% with the RVGEEKSROCK discount code! 😃

[@rickborrows2918]

Fantastic demonstration. This video explains exactly how to replace an rv patio awning.

[@cjbergmann67]

Thanks for the clear directions! I've never replaced an awning, but I was able to install a Sun Wave replacement awning onto a Sun Chaser system using this video as. guide. Thanks RV Geeks!

[@RVgeeks]

That's great to hear, Christopher! It's always good to hear that we've been helpful, so thanks for letting us know. :)

[@joshlandis7185]

Thanks for your help!!! Awning replacement complete as I followed the video to a T. Saved me lots of money and I appreciate it!

[@aussie8114]

A helpful tip.... Don't give your helpers too much to drink before they start the job. Or it will end up very crooked 🍺🍻🍺

[@mattstutsman7692]

Basically right but way more difficult than it needs to be. They didn't remove both springs which allows for inspection and lube before re-installing. It also makes putting the fabric on much easier and easier to roll. Also suggest 2- saw horses vs. on the ground to save your back. Myself and one other guy can usually swap a fabric and have it back up in a 1/2 hour or less. However we have done quite a few so a hour to 1.5 hours should be expected.

[@RVgeeks]

Try our updated technique. Much better! How to Replace RV Patio Awning Fabric - NEW EASIER METHOD! Dometic / A&E Manual Awning + BLOOPERS! kzbin.info/www/bejne/rJ_bdX-GedSJecU

[@ralphtaylor8542]

Really good and detailed how to replace rv awning fabric.

[@MrRickb04]

Great video guys. Hope you fed the crew well!

[@RVgeeks]

We shared a great meal after this was all done. Always takes a lot longer to video than to do the installation itself! lol

[@larrycrockford3000]

This was an extremely helpful video ...made the job go flawlessly...Thanks guys

[@RVgeeks]

Great to hear, Larry! 😊

[@jerrydewlen1195]

It turns out that when I replaced my fabric, I had to remove both end caps because the cord for the old fabric was folded back inside the tube and I could not pull the old fabric off. Removing the other end cap is a little trickier because you don't have the ratchet cam to hold the spring. So, you have to attach the vice grips and hold on to them firmly while you remove the bolt and side arm. Then you release the spring tension just like the first end cap.

[@cokeguy4483]

just replaced our awning, turned out great!!! thank you for the post 🙌🙌

[@RVgeeks]

+coke guy Awesome! Great to hear. Thanks for letting us know. 😊

[@littlefarmontheriver5882]

going to be using this video to replace ours I cant tell how much we needed this video thanks for the post

[@RVgeeks]

I am so happy to hear that this video is going to help you do the job! It was a lot of work to put this one together, and it's so great to know it was worth the effort. I hope you'll be ordering from Ray at ToughTop. He is an awesome guy with a great product. Let us know how you make out with the install! :)

[@gordonj.mcleer63]

Nice work guys. Informative, educational and simply explained for the average person. I have watched your videos even just as a point of information.

[@RVgeeks]

+Gordon J. McLeer Thanks so much, Gordon! 😊

[@ccmcgaugh]

Best method yet! But why loop the fabric over the roller instead of just rolling it on? I'm sure I'll find out when I try it. 😉👍

[@RVgeeks]

Hey Cal! Before you try out this method, we highly recommend the new way we learned to do it. You should definitely watch this video first if you are planning to replace this exact type of awning. It’s a huge improvement! Here’s the video we made showing the new way: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rJ_bdX-GedSJecU

[@ccmcgaugh]

@@RVgeeks Thanks for the new video...I just watched it. I'll watch both a few times to get familiar with everything. Great job on both! 😉👍

[@MasseeMedia]

Thanks so much for creating a video that is a great starting point. The replacement fabric on our awning came with instructions, but no illustrations and some of the steps were very confusing. This put pictures to the words, which basically described the same steps you did. However, like another poster here I found that the rear end of the roller on my A&E awning had no hole for a screwdriver to stop the rear spring. Reading down in the comments I saw how someone (squeezy33) had used the milled/drilled slot method to remove the fabric and I did that, worked perfectly. I liked that a lot better than the thought of drilling out the rivets on the end cap and unwinding the spring. Saved needing to purchase a rivet gun for a one time use. the new fabric has a valance that is completely separate from the main awning so it made it easy to install.

[@RVgeeks]

+CaptainHarlock999 Thanks for reiterating this tip. Here's a video we made this year with Tyler from Tough Top Awnings, showing the "drill out a channel in the roller" method, performed on a slide topper: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n3eYept9htqEo5I

[@TheMinuer302]

I just replace my 13'x8' awning thank. Only issue is the right spring onroll before i could count the turn now i am trying to figure out how to fix that. But great video thank.

[@ElementofKindness]

A pro needs one helper and a DIY'er needs two helpers, eh? Well, I feel pretty smug at the moment then, as I just did a 21' A&E awning by myself! Hardest part was the awning tube groove was a little wide near the end, and didn't want to feed the cord for the valance, without popping out and jamming where the groove narrowed. No big deal, it just slowed me down a little.

[@RVgeeks]

+Element of Kindness Impressive! That's quite a feat to do it on your own. Nice work! 👍

[@mrinspector2206]

good but it's a lot easier to just cut the old fabric at the awning rail after you extend it a foot, that way you just slide a small old piece out instead of trying to carry the whole awning out of the rail

[@michaelfields9084]

Thanks! That made it not a terrible job.

[@jammin6816]

Absolutely perfect video- great job! My wife will think I'm a handyman genius, haha.

[@wrgtb3083]

You guys should make a how-to video on how to make a how-to video, because this is how it's done. Thank you.

[@RVgeeks]

Aw, thanks! If you're watching this video because you have to replace the fabric on your A&E Patio awning... check out our more recent video for an easier process: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rJ_bdX-GedSJecU

[@totallyleftfield]

always informative, ....but with all that stuff your going to need a "FIRST AID KIT" if your half as clumsy as me ;)

[@RVgeeks]

We should have bought stock in Aleve first. lol

[@RandyKoth]

I recognize that RV park! Royal Palm off of Dunlap Ave, Phoenix

[@RVgeeks]

Hey Randy! We recall it being in Mesa, but honestly it's been so long, we can't remember. LOL So if you recognize it, you're probably right!

[@ArthurKanzler]

Sounds like a trip to Harbor Freight might be needed before the start of this project.

[@RVgeeks]

Any excuse to go to Harbor Freight is OK by me! ;-)

[@whitneyballard7100]

Amazing amazing amazing. This is a great video!!!! Thank you so much for the great instructions!!!🎉🎉🍾🍾

[@RVgeeks]

+Whitney Ballard Thanks so much, Whitney! So glad we could be of help. 😊

[@5thid738]

Excellent video. Well done and easy to follow.

[@TheAmused2death]

Seems like the harder way of doing it. I did it by myself by starting up top, inserting the loss canvas up top first, then sliding the roller on at the bottom.

[@ElementofKindness]

Exactly!!!! I looked it over, and came to that same conclusion. Worked out to be easy all by myself.

[@disabledvlogger420]

Amused2death what if you don't know howamy times the spring is wound up to.?

[@RVgeeks]

+Scion XB check out this tip to get an idea: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnrNZ3qagbKCeK8 You can also contact Tyler through toughtopawnings.com and he's happy to help.

[@disabledvlogger420]

Amused2death thank you that helped a lot 13 to 20 times tight is bettwrbthan loose😄

[@scottwall4669]

No end cap for the screwdriver?? Use a rubber tie strap, like a flat style bungee, black rubber that the truckers use. Double wrap while pulling tight then lash to side arm. This is how the pros do it at RV parks when working alone. And 14 turns.....your spring is bad. If near salt water they last 5 years. Otherwise 10 year life span.

[@silasdozier3342]

It was a great video except for when the spring got wound up to what was unwound. I did exactly as video but awning would not roll up. Ended up winding spring triple the number to get it to wind up. This needs to be added in video. 2 hr job took 4 hrs plus

[@slockfox]

I recently replaced mine and didnt have any helper. I skipped the part where you disassemble, unwind and remove the springs. It went quickly and will be even easier next time. I made a video of it

[@NannasBaNannas]

This is a great video! Thank you!

[@thestuffz]

that's a nice white awning! I have a grey one and it's meh..

[@lastuvthe]

Great video, but why not just cut the old awning at the top before you slide it out? That way you don't have to hold on to an entire support structure to slide it out. It also allows you to do the job as one person.

[@RVgeeks]

+lastuvthe I suppose you could! We'll have to ask Ray about that next time we talk to him. Great idea. I do think you'll need some help putting it back together though.

[@lastuvthe]

RVgeeks Yes, you will still need 2 people to put it back on, but it does make the removal from the track easier - especially if it's not sliding out very easy. Excellent video though - the best on youtube by far.

[@JanuaryRose02]

Thank you!

[@RVwithTito]

Great video!

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks Tito!

[@jeffmoore6443]

I noticed that this is an A & E awning. Would the same technique be used for a Carefree awning? I saw another video which looked like a Carefree, where the person relieved the spring tension on both sides.

[@RVgeeks]

Hi Jeff. We have a friend with a Carefree patio awning, and while it looks very similar to the A&E, we have no direct experience with it to know the replacement procedure. Your best bet would be to inquire with Tough Top Awnings and see what input they can provide. toughtopawnings.com and tell him Peter & John said Hi!

[@stephensmith8050]

What would preclude you from cutting the fabric and removing the arms so you dont have to walk the arms down the side of the rig? With the arms out of the way it seems as if it would be no problem to pull the fabric thru the track without the need to support the arms.

[@RVgeeks]

You can't get the old fabric out, or the new fabric in, without removing the end cap and spring, so I don't think you could do it without taking the roller down. Even if you could, it would be a challenging job doing it all up on ladders.

[@stephensmith8050]

Thanks for your reply. It turns out it's a mute question. It was torn completely...all the way across. Not at all what I expected when my son told me "Oh by the way Dad, I tore your awning" Yeah thanks son. Gonna be a bear getting the old stuff out.

[@jerrydewlen1195]

RVgeeks He is talking about the initial step after you remove the lag screws that hold the arms to the RV. I just replaced my fabric today and it was much easier after removing the screws to just get up on the ladder and cut the old fabric. Then just lay the arms+roller down. The small piece of old fabric left in the channel is easy to pull out. Oh ... and thanks for the detailed video. It saved me mucho $$$.

[@RVgeeks]

Jerry Dewlen Got it! Thanks Jerry. I never thought of that, but what a great idea! Glad we could save help save you some dough. :)

[@Myannual1]

Great video, My camper came with the awning removed from it, any help on correct placement, and winding the spring for correct extending it? Sun Chaser by Domestic. Thanks for your help, keep up the good work, Eric

[@RVgeeks]

Hi Eric. Not sure about this one, but in case it helps, here is the manual: www.campingworld.com/includes/productSpecs/Dometic%20Sunchaser%20Patio%20Awnings%20manual%2051656d.pdf And here are the instructions for replacing the roller tube: www.hannarv.com/Content/files/Awnings/Dometic-AE-Sunchaser-RV-Patio-Awning-Service-Instructions-Manual-Seattle-Bismarck.pdf We suggest a good resource for this would be a posting on the iRV2 forums, where other RVers have probably already done the job themselves, and are eager to help. It's free to sign up and post at irv2.com/forums Sorry we're not more knowledgeable about this one, but hope this gets you headed in the right direction.

[@jim87vette]

Great Vid. My awning has been off RV for a year now. Its around 25ft wide. My problem is the tension on the springs are no more from when i removed it. I observed that your spring took 9 Turns? Without any idea how many turns mine takes would it be a safe bet to go 9 turns for my spring tension? Or do you have a better solution,thanks?

[@RVgeeks]

Hey Jim! THE guru on this topic is Tyler at Tough Top Awnings. We'd suggest you drop him a note with your question at [e-mail] or call him at [phone]... and tell him the Geeks sent you and said Hi! And if you're ordering fabric from him, be sure to get the RVgeeks discount, usually 5% with discount code RVGEEKSROCK, but 10% right now for the Quartzsite RV show - discount code RVGEEKS10 now through 1/29/17 (the last day of the show). Hope you make out okay!

[@meseahunt]

Great video, maybe you could do one for an electric canopy?

[@RVgeeks]

+Christian Hunt Here's the one we did for our A&E WeatherPro power awning, one of the most popular on the market. Hopefully that's the one you're looking for, Christian! Here's the link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mYG2nJKsisdkgbM

[@bradshawtx]

Great video, thanks for your help.

[@juancabrales9379]

I should ask what kind of awning system is that so I know what kind of tarp to get

[@RVgeeks]

That’s a Dometic awning. Tough Top Awnings sells replacement fabric for just about any brand.

[@maggiebrattoli383]

Is there a reason why you don’t cut the fabric from the top and then just slide out the cut part instead of the whole heavy awning? Same on the bottom?

[@RVgeeks]

That’s certainly an option. Actually, we now have a whole new and improved method for this job: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rJ_bdX-GedSJecU

[@universalheartstring]

Great video. Very helpful. And great background music :)

[@abbetsill]

are those steel or aluminum pop rivets? It was so easy to drill out I'd think the originals are aluminum. Can you replace them with steel? or would steel rust?

[@RVgeeks]

We're sure that those are aluminum rivets, but stainless steel pop rivets are readily available (we have some on board). They're very strong and won't ever rust.

[@nielswil]

Thank you for this helpful video, but the end of the awning looks very low or is that what supossed to happen?

[@RVgeeks]

When you open an A&E awning, it's very low like that, and then you extend both arms to raise it up. In the video, we just opened it to show the fabric but didn't raise it. Replacing the fabric didn't change anything and this is normal.

[@nielswil]

Ah, learned something more today. Thanks for the answer.

[@laurafinley363]

WE ARE STOPPING WILL COME BACK TO IT TOMORROW. HAVING TROUBLE WITH THE LAST STEP

[@chadf4i]

Everything on mine looks the same, it's an a&e but it doesn't have the plastic cap on the rear or a hole to lock the spring on that end. Do I just skip that step or is there something else I need to do. I haven't started the job yet but want to make sure I fully understand it all before starting.

[@RVgeeks]

We’re not sure about that one, sorry, but we’re going to make two suggestions. The first is that before you start, you use the new easier method that we demonstrated here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rJ_bdX-GedSJecU The second thing we would suggest is emailing Tyler at Tough Top Awnings through their website. He will absolutely know what to do.

[@chadf4i]

@@RVgeeks I talked to a local RV shop today and they said what they do in that case is leave the right side locked and remove the left side from the support arm, unwind that side, remove the rivets, etc etc, and do everything off of that end while the other side remains locked with the locking mechanism. Just thought I'd post that up here incase anyone else faces the same issue.

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks for the update! Sounds like a plan!

[@sammcdonald769]

What is the significance of the Phillips screwdriver in the blind hole with the plug ?

[@RVgeeks]

To prevent the spring from unwinding. Doesn't have to be a Phillips head specifically, but they do fit in there very well!

[@RVgeeks]

UPDATE! WE'VE LEARNED A NEW & IMPROVED (EASIER!) WAY TO DO THIS JOB. WATCH THE DETAILS HERE: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rJ_bdX-GedSJecU Use Tough Top Awnings discount code "RVGEEKSROCK" at checkout for a 5% discount on your entire order at toughtopawnings.com

[@jazava82]

RVgeeksrock

[@RVgeeks]

+jazava82 😊

[@allanmiller8652]

my awning ripped and the arms fell down. The spring released leaving no way to know how many turns are required for proper tension. Can I use trial and error or is there a better way?

[@RVgeeks]

Hi Allan! Sorry to hear about your situation. Tyler from Tough Top Awnings provided some tips about re-tensioning the spring in a slide topper here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnrNZ3qagbKCeK8 That's similar, so that video may be helpful, but if you'd like to get a little more input on tensioning an awning spring (vs a slide topper), Tyler is usually happy to help. You can reach him by phone or email through his website: toughtopawnings.com and let him know the RVgeeks sent you! Of course if you order new fabric, be sure to use the code RVGEEKSROCK to get a 5% discount, which is good both online and over the phone. Hope this helps a bit!

[@michelleber3418]

That was a very well done video !

[@jasonwebb9725]

Do i have to wear tall socks, shorts and sneakers while doing this? Or is it just required for the pros? Thanks in advance!!!

[@RVgeeks]

That’s for professionals only! Ya gotta be certified to pull that off. 😂

[@stwrtfan1999]

What if your rear cap doesn't have hole to lock the spring?

[@RVgeeks]

We're going to have to defer to the real expert on this one: Tyler from Tough Top Awnings. He knows more about this job than anyone we know, and can surely help. You can reach Tyler by phone at [phone] or email at [e-mail] and tell him the RVgeeks sent you! And of course if you buy replacement fabric from him, be sure to get your discount by using the code RVGEEKSROCK when you order (his fabric is the best we've ever seen, and all of our slide toppers, and our main awning are from Tough Top).

[@dicklarkin4669]

Hi I need some additional help. I have a 86 Alllegro. It had an awning but was removed when I bought. I found a used replacement off of an identical RV how ever I had to take the side arms off to bring it home and I am sure I lost tention and did not knowing the number of turns and placement? Sorry for misspelled words, writing this on a plane ride to Vegas.

[@dicklarkin4669]

Did not finish, how can I reset or know number of turns if I did not count or use a screw driver to hold ( as in video), or know how to reassemble?

[@RVgeeks]

Gary Larkin Hi Gary. We'd suggest looking to Dometic for the answer on this one. We found a link to their replacement instructions for a typical awning (might not be your model of course) here: www.dometic.com/91a67e1c-1b8d-40a0-a22c-3b83ac5d3379.fodoc The details about torsion winding are on page 7. If you have some other model, they probably have those details available too. Let me know if you have trouble finding the right instructions for your model and I'll see if I can help.

[@fvallone]

Great video, do you know what size those long bolts are that you installed on the top brackets?

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks Frank! Those were the bolts that were on the trailer from the factory, so I don't know what size they are. You might try asking Tyler at TopTopAwnings. I'll be he would know, or could find out. His phone number and e-mail are on their home page here: www.toughtopawnings.com/ Tell him Peter from RVgeeks said hello!

[@madddawg6496]

What happens if you lose count of the rotations? When do you know to stop? I did 14 rotations and still nothing. Help!

[@RVgeeks]

Richard Brown Did you by any chance get your new fabric from Tough Top Awnings? Tyler (Tough Top's Operations Manager) is THE expert on this stuff. If you call him and describe exactly what's happening, he is the most qualified guy we know to help. Tell him RVgeeks suggested you call. Even if you didn't buy it from him, we bet he'll be happy to try to help. Phone: [phone] or Email: [e-mail]. Please let us know how you make out!

[@haroldpolite6134]

hey guy, Question: I see I have a A&E Awning, but I don't see if it's a 8500. How would I know this? Thanks for the video.

[@RVgeeks]

There should be an information label inside one of the arms, which you can see when the awning is open. It should have all the details you need to determine which model you have.

[@RetreatfarmFarmvilleVirginia]

Well at least i now know it will be impossible to try this by myself on my Motorhome....On to plan B...lol.

[@5thid738]

The fabric at the bottom (tube) of my awning is shifted left. When I pull on the fabric to move it right, it won't slide. Any ideas?

[@RVgeeks]

Hmmmm... could be set screw(s) holding the fabric in place... OR... the plastic bead rod has shifted and is too long on the end you're trying to shift the fabric to (the right), and could be hitting the end cap stopping you from moving it. If the former, removing the set screw(s) will do the trick. But if it's the latter... you'd need to cut the extra length of beading to get it out of your way. You MIGHT be able to do that with the awning fabric installed on the roller... or you might need to remove it. It could also just be really stiff, since there's usually two tracks that the awning fabric is held in place with on the roller tube: one for the fabric, and the other for the valance. So spraying some silicone spray into both tracks could free things up enough that you'll be able to slide the fabric. Or, if the difference in placement isn't too bad, you COULD shift the fabric at the RV in the opposite direction to even things out (there will almost certainly be a set screw you need to remove from the track on the RV before being able to slide the fabric), too. Hope this helps!

[@gmex99usa]

What if you didn't count the turns on your spring system., am trying to replace my awning on my RV and I did see this video before so now I have the spring system out but I didn't count the turns, please somebody help me! Thank you so much

[@RVgeeks]

+gmex99usa It depends on the make, model and length of your awning. If you have an A&E manual awning, you can see the chart for the correct number of turns on page 7 of this PDF document: bryantrv.com/docs2/docs/aespring.pdf (it ranges between 8 and 12 turns). If you have any trouble, or need additional help, we're sure Tyler at Tough Top Awnings would be happy to assist. He'll be back in the office tomorrow if you want to give him a call [phone]. We've seen him re-tension springs in person several times. It's really easy and he can describe it better than we can.

[@bobboles5788]

What if the end cap has no area to put the screwdriver?

[@RVgeeks]

Bob Boles Hi Bob! We don't have enough experience with patio awning installations to be sure, so we're going to suggest you contact the professionals! If you e-mail Tyler, the operations manager at Tough Top Awnings ( [e-mail] ) and send him your question along with this link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kJfTfmClpZWXobcm40s he will surely know the correct answer. He's very responsive and has a ton of experience with these. Tell him Peter from RVgeeks sent you too! And of course if you order replacement fabric, be sure to use our discount code to get 5% off: "RVGEEKSROCK"

[@dma222]

This was an awesome video that helped me do a project i was scared to tackle!! Thank you so much for the easy to follow help!!! AAA++++++

[@RVgeeks]

So great to hear!

[@dewaynefanchier589]

Thanks for the video!! I'm getting ready to change mine. The canopy is lose from the camper, & I will have to wind both springs. Is there a "rule" of how many turns to wraps?

[@RVgeeks]

Hi Dewayne! We did an interview with Tyler from Tough Top Awnings, where he provided tips about tensioning springs, but that was for slide toppers: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnrNZ3qagbKCeK8 That may be helpful, but we'd suggest looking at the roller tube replacement manual (we assume you have a Dometic/A&E 9000, like the one in this video) for details about tensioning based on awning length. It's on page 7 here: bryantrv.com/docs2/docs/aespring.pdf If you have a different model or brand, you can Google "roller tube replacement" and your make & model to find your manual. Did you already purchase your replacement fabric? If not, we HIGHLY recommend Tough Top Awnings. Not only is their fabric far better than the original, or anything else we've ever seen, but you can get a 5% discount using code RVGEEKSROCK at checkout at toughtopawnings.com and you can get great support from Tyler himself (his contact info, including cell number, are all over their website).

[@dewaynefanchier589]

Thanks!! I have a new awning already. I just have to find out the particulars about the roller. It's on an '83 Fleetwood.

[@RVgeeks]

Definitely check the awning owners manual, and they should have details about tensioning.

[@dewaynefanchier589]

I looked at the video, & it was quite helpful! I'm planning on attacking it this weekend.

[@raywong5454]

hi, where can I buy a replacement awning material only . my original is made by A&E dometic..thanks

[@RVgeeks]

Visit www.toughtopawnings.com for replacement awning material that's better than the original (and less expensive too). ;-)

[@joshuarobin6900]

Does anyone know how to measure to get the length of the awning? I know the width. The awning was cut out between the rv and the roller.

[@RVgeeks]

Hi Joshua! There should be nothing to measure, as the length is standardized for each awning model. If you visit Tough Top Awnings website, you'll see there isn't even a place to add the length, so you'll be good to go with just the width. If you do order from them be sure to use the discount code RVGEEKS to save 5%! www.toughtopawnings.com

[@charlesspinner1259]

Buddy of mine lost his awning coming down the road. He wants me to help him replace the awning because he did mine last year. The question I have is there is no tension on the springs because the awning is gone, how do I put the tension back on ??

[@RVgeeks]

+charles spinner Contact Tyler at toughtopawnings.com (his email & phone are there). It's an easy process, but he is the guru and can describe it better than we can. Tell him the geeks said hi!

[@imageinphoto]

I'm in the same situation, what did he tell you to do?

[@RVgeeks]

***** If you don't hear back from +charles spinner before 4th of July weekend, drop us a note. We'll be spending that entire weekend with Tyler at Tough Top Awnings, and we can put you directly in touch with him... or of course you should free to call or email him directly. He's very responsive.

[@donbahrman1572]

hi there, have a big problem, can't unlock the trigger, and it broke, do I have to take it all down to replace the end ? , thanks for any help

[@RVgeeks]

Don Bahrman Hi Don. Did you get your fabric from Tough Top Awnings? Even if you didn't, I'll bet that Tyler would be happy to try to help. You can reach him through toughtopawnings.com. His phone number and contact info are right on the website. Good luck and please let us know how you make out.

[@RVgeeks]

Don Bahrman PS.. Tyler is on West Coast time.

[@griff3377]

Yes my awning looks like the same one in the video but my end cap doesn't have a hole to put a screw driver in to lock the left side. What do I do?

[@RVgeeks]

Hi Cornell. We haven't encountered that, so we don't have any suggestions for you. But the absolute expert on this topic is Tyler at Tough Top Awnings. We'd suggest giving him a call (360.980.0537). And if you need to order fabric from Tough Top, get your 5% discount by using the RVGEEKSROCK discount code! ;)

[@keithmccue6346]

I have the same problem, did you ever figure it out

[@wayne272wr]

I spoke to Tyler and he said to put a screwdriver in the end of the channel for the strap, with the handle wedged up against the arm will keep the tube from spinning. Thanks Tyler

[@RVgeeks]

Excellent! Tyler is the best! 😊