rear awning

[ramhawk2017]

Hi Folks , Have Hawk FWC, would like to get some suggestions regarding an awning for the rear of the camper only ( the prices on the batwing and side awnings at FWC have gone through the roof); any brands you would suggest ? Any tips on installation ( especially avoiding wiring) ? Thanks Ramhawk

 

[PaulT]

Search for “site:www.wanderthewest.com rear awning” in your favorite search engine. You should find several threads on rear awnings. You may already have the awning channel that accepts a tarp with a rop sewn on the end, (look for keder) that serves to attach the tarp to the roof. You may find some ideas in those threads.

Paul

 

[ckent323]

Carefree of Colorado has an awning that could work.

A smaller Fiamma or ARB awning might work as well.

I am working on a design for one to be added before a trip to Alaska this Summer but it is early in the design stage tight now.

I am planning to put an awning strip on the camper above the door and then make two support arms that leverage an idea I saw in the Bombsight Build thread on page 21 for the wetsuit rack. The arms will be attached to the jack brackets and extend off the back instead of off the side.

https://www.sailrite.com/Awning-Track-Aluminum-96

http://www.wanderthewest.com/forum/topic/10464-bombsight-build-thread/page-21

Not sure if I will have straps on the canvas so I can just roll up the canvas top and strap it in place or if I will take the canvas roof on and off.

I have the Aluminum tubing for the support arms, I am presently searching for quick release pins or something like that for easy deployment operation.

https://www.mcmaster.com/#detent-pins/=1c5d0uf

Canvas may be fastened to the arms with twist locks not sure yet

https://www.sailrite.com/DOT-Twist-Lock-Fastener-Cloth-to-Cloth-Button-Back-Set-Nickel-Plated

I think that is enough info to give you an idea for a DIY awning or where to look to buy one.


Craig

 

[Alley-Kat]

Craig,

IMO, this are better and easier, one hand operation.


Ball-Lok Quick-Release Pins

 

[ckent323]

Allen,

Thanks.

I am using 1" square tubing so hopefully those come in a 1-1/8 or 1-1/4 usable length. Finding the right usable length has been my biggest challenge so far.

Craig

 

[PaulT]

Also check out Bimini top hardware for boats. There are deck mounts and end parts to go on tubing that may help you.
Some at West Marine. https://www.westmarine.com/boat-cover-bimini-hardware
Or at Overton’s https://www.overtons.com/Covers-Tops/Bimini-Tops/Bimini-Hardware-Accessories

An awning shares a lot in common with boat tops and covers. You could consider asking a boat top maker/installer to design one for you. They have a variety of materials and hardware that could be useful.

Paul

 

[ckent323]

Paul,

Thanks. I did originally start down the path of Bimini hardware and by the time I added up all the parts it was getting close to what I would pay Carefree or Fiamma for an awning. The parts are mostly Stainless steel so not inexpensive.

I saw the Wetsuit Hanger by Bombsight and immediately realized that it could be used as an awning support. I am modifying his approach a little but it will be similar. One on each side of the camper attached to the jack mounts. The awning will be full width of the back of the camper and extend out about 40 " from the back of the camper.

I plan to make the top canvas hang over the roof frame and then put velcro around the sides so I can attach a privacy/wind panel that wraps around the back and one side plus a single panel for one side which will create a flap type entry.

I will upload some sketches when I get a little time - they are hand drawn and I need to scan them in.

Craig