SSL214
Corpus Christi, TX
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Joined: 03/24/2004
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I have purchased an awning stabilizer that gripes the awning and then a velcro strap goes around the top arm. It helps secure the awning in case of wind gusts. Does anyone else use these and are they functional or do I need to return them?
Thanks, Steve
2004 Dodge 3500 Dually Quad Cab
2005 Open Road 357RLDS
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sixtires58
Louisville, KY
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Joined: 04/13/2004
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I think you're talking about an awning deflapper. They work when the wind kicks up a bit to keep the awning from, well...flapping. But, the won't actually protect the awning in a big wind gust. For that, it needs to be tied to the ground.
I have two different types of awning tie-downs. One is a big black strap that lays over the awning, then there are two screw hooks the screw into the ground. The strap ties to that.
I like that one, but it's kinda hard to get in place because my rig is so tall.
The other one I use is just two lengths of rope with S hooks on the end, attached to a swing spring. I loop the rope over both ends of the awning tube, then attach the springs to the grounds screws. Then, it has a little wood block on it so that you can tighten the ropes up. Works really well because it's got a little give to it, but yet keeps everything nice and taught. I made those myself.
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Mirage3250
El Reno, Oklahoma
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Joined: 09/28/2003
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I use two of them on each side of the awning and they work very well for what they are intended to do. As in the previous posted reply, they aren't meant to secure the awning in a strong wind, but, meant to keep the fabric from flapping and subsequently stretching in mild to moderate wind. You should always be in the vicinity when your awning is down in case of a strong wind or storm.
There are products that will help stabilize the whole awning in moderate winds, but, most aren't meant for really strong winds. No I don't have a value for the difference between a "moderate" and "strong" wind! When your awning starts shaking the TT it's a strong wind and it may be too late to attempt to put the awning up!
37' Mirage Triple slider, '03 GMC 1 T Ext.Cab Dually, Duramax/Allison GO SOONERS!!
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gtb
lampasas, texas
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Yeppers, what you have is a deflapper. What you need is the tie-down, or, rather, a tie-down system. The best one I've used has a wide, nylon strap that goes from side to side of the awning, just on the rv side of the roller mechanism and thence to the ground where you 'stake' the straps firmly into the ground ( on both ends of the strap ).
A good rule of thumb is, " Put the awning up if you're gonna be gone from the park." A sudden storm line with more than gusty winds won't be deterred by the tie-downs. Many an RV neighbor has saved an absent RV owner's bacon by putting up their awning for them in their absence. However, most of us have seen awning to a flip over the top of an unwary ower's rig when the wind is sudden and no one can get there in time to prevent it from happening. I always put mine up at night before retiring...for the night. It takes a few moments, but a stitch in time...ya know?
Have fun, but be safe.
:W gary and sue
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lilered
Gravois Mills, Mo
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Joined: 03/20/2004
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These are for gripping the sides of the fabric and achoring it to the extension arms. (Awning DeFlapper s) I use 2 on each side. They work good for keeping your awning from flapping wildly in breezes.
However to anchor your extensable awning takes a different type of system. I made mine. Material for 1 side only - 1 screw type lawn dog anchor. I large hardware spring about 8" long 1 1/2 wide (not to stiff. 1 nice red (so people can see it)tie down strap with hooks on both ends. Then with the awning fully extended where you want it. Hook one end on the Front Corner of the awning reel hardware, down to the (spring which you already hooked into the top loop of the screwed in dog lawned anchor. Pull and set the strap tension so that there is firm tension on the awning without bending it. Repeat procedure for other side. Or you can purchase a complete kit from any RV supplier, C.W., or C.Choice. ( But you won't have the same priceless satisfaction of building it yourself.
P.S. Good Habit to get into is Watch the weather and don't leave it up at night or when you will be gone from the RV for any extended time.
Mike
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dylansmom
Sioux Falls, SD (Fulltiming, could be anywhere)
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Yup, we use them and really like them. If I were you, I'd keep them, cuz someday you may wish you had.
Jackie, Greg, Dylan the dog
2006 Winnebago Adventurer 38T
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SSL214
Corpus Christi, TX
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Thanks guys, yep, they are deflappers. now I get to go to the hardware store and get some more goodies to build stuff... WOOHOO....
I appreciate the help. Steve
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