Community Forums

Wolfpack Fan · 09-03-2013, 08:24 PM

Since we've had our 2005 National Dolphin 3 of the shades have failed because of broken strings. They've just given in to heat of our Nevada summers. The shades are in good condition themselves, they've just got broken strings, so I don't see the need to replace them altogether. I see countless videos on youtube and found a web site that sells string and other components. I'm ready to take the plunge and get started, but I wanted to check with everyone and see if anyone else has done a restring themself, and has any little tips that might come in handy to make the job easier.

Gemstone · 09-04-2013, 06:05 AM

"I'm ready to take the plunge and get started, but I wanted to check with everyone and see if anyone else has done a restring themself, and has any little tips that might come in handy to make the job easier".

I use a foot long needle and thread it through the holes in the shade, makes the job a snap. Like: Amazon.com: Dritz 9021 Upholstery Needle, 4-Pack: Arts, Crafts & Sewing

Regards
Gemstone

TN Bill · 09-04-2013, 06:18 AM

You can get parts and instructions here. I did mine and other than working upside down it was no problem.
Cellular and Pleated Shade Cord Guide

Or here

RV Shade and Blind Repair

chiefneon · 09-04-2013, 09:09 AM

Howdy!

Most RV sales and service carry the parts you need. I purchased a kit with string eye let parts and a DVD instruction from one. I strung my blinds servel times with the repair kit. I am considering using some of the newer type fishing line the next time instead of the nylon string. The nylon string just does not hold up to alot of usage.

"Happy Trails"
Chiefneon

Ray,IN · 09-04-2013, 08:09 PM

The first one I restrung took about 45 minutes, the second about 30, now it takes less than 30 minutes. I bought the string from a local blind and shade store. Sometimes however the plastic eyelets become worn and cut the string. I got by with rotating eyelets 180*, but it only works once, then they must be replaced. Some websites I use are:
Winnebago - restringing day/night shades, pdf
fixmyblinds.com
dirtyblindman.com
Of those three, Winnebago has the best instructions, IMO. It also has a tip to longivity, only tension the strings tight enough to keep the blind in place when released, overtightening greatly reduces string life.

PDR John · 09-04-2013, 09:35 PM

I used 100# fishing line when I redid ours.

Never had to restring one I did.

trode · 09-05-2013, 05:34 AM

We did 3 in our coach, got the kit at CW and have to say the hard part is removing the shade to do repair. Have place to work, like dinette table, step one; pour fairly large glass of wine (or adult beverage of choice), follow step by step instructions closely, our first took about 30 minutes including done wrong one time, next two took about 5 minutes each. May have to do others, as ones we did move so much better than originals.

Wolfpack Fan · 09-05-2013, 10:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by trode

pour fairly large glass of wine (or adult beverage of choice), follow step by step instructions closely

Bless your heart. Good advice!

Mr_D · 09-05-2013, 10:20 PM

I guess we got all the good ones! I've NEVER had even one break and we're over 11 years with this rig now.

Muddypaws · 09-05-2013, 10:38 PM

You need a fairly large, clean, and wind free area to work in.

Wash your hands often. Take your time and follow the directions.

Some small bungee cords or large rubber bands will come in handy. Once you cut the cords the blinds are like an angry accordion. (You'll understand what I mean after you do it).

While the actual re-string is a fairly easy one person job removing and re-installing them is much easier with an able bodied assistant.

I would not recommend drinking wine while youmdomthis unless your blinds are already wine colored.

Good Luck!

JMonroe · 09-06-2013, 07:19 AM

I'd use this excuse to dump those and get a pull down shade. I always hated those pleated shades. They were typically either too tight and impossible to move, or too loose and would fall all the time. Then the pleats would get mashed and didn't seem to want to straighten out again.

Replace them with a pull down shade. The initial investment will be high, but the lower stress levels and greater reliability will be worth it.

becks · 09-06-2013, 07:34 AM

We did just as Jay states. Got tired of dealing with the always failing day night shades and had MCD's put in. Costly yes, but if budget allows you will love them.

Cat320 · 09-06-2013, 11:31 AM

I spread mine out on the living room floor which makes for a big work space. Also, you might want that big glass of wine AFTER you've fixed the shade.