Foretravel Owners' Forum For owners and Fans of Foretravel Motorcoaches September 10, 2025 ...

Changed the air control valve on awning

August 06, 2016, 06:20:01 pm

I found the source of the rapid leak-down in my auxiliary air circuit using my new mechanics stethoscope. The valve was leaking internally, so the soap bubble method didn't work. I could clearly hear it with the stethoscope, but just to be sure, I called Jimmie at Zip Dee and order a replacement valve. This is my first experience using a mechanics stethoscope, but it is the cat's meow for internal leaks.

Quote Selected

Re: Changed the air control valve on awning

Reply #1 – August 06, 2016, 10:03:43 pm

I may have to get one as well. I'm tone deaf and air leaks normally I cannot hear unless they are roaring..
Our main Zip Dee doesn't work, all that happens is the box clicks.... and the 12 volt pump won't build pressure past 90 lbs or so.
But there is a good chance that I may have more than one leak, even after isolating the slideout bladder...

Quote Selected

Re: Changed the air control valve on awning

Reply #2 – August 06, 2016, 10:19:23 pm

Not to Hijack this thread -

Saddlesore -

Many with Zip Dee awnings need more air pressure than the Aux comp can deliver.  Our control box requires 110 min PSI so we have a separate small compressor that runs the Zip Dee Awning and we also use it to air our tires.  I believe if you call Zip Dee and talk to Jimmy he will confirm that many FTs have this issue.  In 2003 FT started using Girrard automatic large awnings. 

You may have other leaks but check into minimum PSI required to operate the awning.

Do a Search on this topic and you will find numerous threads addressing this issue. 

Aux compressor psi gauge, 82 psi

Quote Selected

Re: Changed the air control valve on awning

Reply #3 – August 06, 2016, 10:58:46 pm

Saddlesore,

Some things to check as I have been through this. First, use a voltmeter to check the batteries sitting at the bottom of the awning control box. They are in series, so they should read about 28 volts total, e.g. between the positive post of one and the negative of the other. If they don't read at least 24 volts, replace them, NAPA has them. This is most likely your problem.

Using the manual motor switch, check the motor by moving switch to the open position. If the awning doesn't begin to unroll and the batteries are good, your motor may be bad. I don't have a source for the motor. The little LEDs on the control panel have special meaning and provide troubleshooting hints.

Do you have any documentation? Zip Dee has a troubleshooting guide on their website. It will guide you through most of this. If you call Zip Dee ask for Jimmie. He is very knowledgeable and helpful - very customer service oriented.

Quote Selected