ZIP DEE awnings on older coaches
If you have an older coach with the manual Zip Dee awning I recommend you check the condition of the #10-32 bolts on the ends of the main roller! They should be Grade 8, not rusty, and not loose! If one breaks and comes out on the front end when the awning is extended the front end of the awning will drop down and likely break the rafter casting on the rear. The castings are pewter and cannot be repaired. Also, Zip Dee does not make identical replacement parts for these old styles. The replacement part you can get from Zip Dee fits on the axle shaft of the awning roller instead of being bolted to the main arm. You will have to have a rivet tool, drill new holes, and retension the roller spring. Easiest way to retension roller: Disconnect main arm at the coach wall, carefully rotate arm counter clockwise until all tension is off the roller spring. Add new pewter casting etc. and then rotate arm assembly clockwise (as viewed while standing at rear of coach) until tension is restored. This may take a few more trial turns until correct tension is achieved. Use the ENTIRE arm and hold on firmly!! Just trying to turn using the pewter casting alone and you will experience severe pain..Don't ask!!!
Topic: ZIP DEE awnings on older coaches