Problem with A&E Awning

[toadog]

Hi ,
New to MH, Have a 1997 Dolphin . A few weeks ago in N,D. had head winds at 20 to 30 knots and my awning slats seemed to ballooned out and a large section of awning came out and was flapping. We stopped a rerolled the awning, got under way and it happened again. I duct taped the awning and got home to Seattle . I see that A&E Systems still make this slatted awning, I am thinking of putting a hose clamp on for long trips . Has anyone have this problem and is there a cure.
Thank you Bob & Rita Bazley

[paz]

toadog, welcome to iRV2.

I'm not familiar with the type of slatted awning you refer to, but the problem with awnings unfurling comes about mainly because the pawl that you flip to roll the awning in and out becomes worn and will not reliably prevent the roller tube from unrolling when air gets up under the awning. This can happen even though the awning is completely rolled up and the support arms are tightly locked up against the side of the coach.

There are a number of awning locks available, including some homemade versions, that prevent the main tube from unrolling. HERE is one version that uses a spring-loaded pin. If you Google "RV awning lock," you will find more.

[toadog]

Hi Paz,
Thanks for the reply,I never thought of the locking part. I was going down the highway at 60. The slates are made of medal and look a little puffed out in the middle. I will look at the locking part.
Thanks Bob