Install a Window Awning in 6 Easy Steps

In the past I have received several e-mails from fellow RVers questioning how difficult it is to install a window awning on their RV. My reply was that this is one of those do-it-yourself things most RV owners can install and save some money at the same time.

Window awnings are a nice addition to your RV. They provide us with shade, keep rain away from the RV windows, and protect the interior fabrics and upholstery from damage caused by the sun. And the good news is they are really easy to install. You can save well over $100 in labor fees, and have the satisfaction of knowing you did it yourself. Watch the installation video for easy to follow directions.

Note: The instructions provided here are for installing an A&E Elite window awning.

When your window awning arrives unpack it and make sure all required parts are on hand. Let’s get started with the installation.

Step 1: Install the Awning Rail
Apply a caulking compound on the back of the awning rail before securing it. I use putty tape that you can purchase from an RV dealer. Position and center the awning rail approximately 5″ above the top of the window. Secure the awning rail with #6- x 1/2″ sheet metal screws provided

Step 2: Hang the Awning
Secure the awning arms to the top casting using the 1/4″ x 3/4″ bolts provided. Both arms are identical.

Now unroll just enough fabric so you can slide the bead into the awning rail. If too much fabric is unrolled before you release the preset tension, there will not be the required amount of tension needed to properly roll the awning back up after use.

Step 3: Install the Bottom Mounting Bracket
Position the bottom mounting bracket of each arm so the top of the end cap on each side of the tube is level with the opening of the awning rail. This insures the awning shield wraps up tightly. Mark the location of the bottom mounting bracket holes.

If the brackets will be secured to a wood structure, drill four 1/8″ diameter holes and secure the bottom brackets using four #10 screws. Apply caulking compound to screws before inserting. If the brackets are only secured to the skin of the RV, use a #5 drill bit, and secure the bottom mounting bracket using 3/16″ x 1″ Oscar Rivets. Apply caulking compound to rivets. Repeat on the other awning arm bracket.

Step 4: Release the Preset Tension
A & E window awning torsions are pre- wound at the factory. Remove the cotter pin that is holding factory pre-set tension. The cotter pin is in the roller tube end cap. Twist the roller tube as if unrolling the awning while pulling on cotter pin. Caution: When cotter pins are removed, springs are under tension. The awning will attempt to close. Keep your body and clothing clear of hardware and roller tube. Repeat on the other side. The awning should roll up snugly against the side of the vehicle.

Step 5: Installing the Window Strap Hanger
After the roller tube assembly is mounted on the RV, open the awning to its full extension by pulling down on the pull strap. Center the strap in the awning, then move the loop of the pull strap toward the RV and under the window to locate the placement of the window strap hanger.

Locate the strap hanger so that the top loop of the strap is engaged onto the hanger, allowing for minor height adjustment of the awning. Mark the location and install the strap hanger with three #10 x 3/4″ screws or 3/16″ x 1″ Oscar Rivets as required. Apply caulking compound to all screws or rivets before inserting.

Step 6: Center the window awning
For awnings with a metal weather shield, install #6 self-tapping screws into the awning rail immediately next to the metal hinge. Repeat this on other side. These screws hold the awning in place.

Your window awning installation is complete and ready to use.

For more information on all of your RV awnings check out our
RV Awning Use, Care & Accessories DVD

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