Girard G5000 Topper Removal

[12Down]

I want to remove the front of a 4369 FWS slideout topper to allow me access to the top of the FWS. Some instructions say to put a clamp at each end of the vinyl topper fabric, bring the slide in 12", and the clamps will stop the cover from rolling in, allowing for some slack in the topper. Then I can take out the screws along the edge of the FWS and pull back the topper.
It looks like the clamps could get pulled into the plastic housing and possible damage it. I'm guessing there is a lot of tension on the topper. Anyone ever taken tension off the topper by using two clamps?

[OMMM4747]

Some things I leave to the experts. Not sure what it is you're trying to fix, but considering the size of the awnings, if you lose tension you're going to have a hard time rolling up the awning to get it back. Suggest you reconsider your DIY project and pay the piper.

Good luck

[12Down]

Unfortunately, the top of the FWS is lifting at one of the outside corners. I have to add some additional screws vertically along the outer edge of the FWS. I need to pull back the topper a few inches to allow me access. It sounds doable to me, but before I start, I’d like to hear from at least one person who has done it.

[stuben]

Dave and Judy:
Unfortunately there is no easy way to get access to the top of your slide without removing the topper. I have replaced a couple of these topper awnings on the FWS. I would suggest that you de-tension the topper and then remove it or pull it to the other end to access the roof area for repair. This will take two people and a de-tension tool and two eight foot ladders. You can buy the tool from Girard or make one. Refer to the diy videos at tough topper awnings and you can find how to make a de-tension tool. Be careful there is a lot of force on that awning, think of it like a garage door spring. I would use a breaker bar rather than a ratchet to de-tension the reel. Dont let it free-wheel.The "clamps" really do not work on a girard awning they do work great on the carefree awnings. Good luck

[12Down]

Stuben- when detensioning won’t the breaker bar have to rotate more than 180 deg? Do you have to keep putting the two screws back in and reposition the breaker bar? The clamp information I mentioned came from the Girard G5000 manual. I still haven’t had any luck speaking with a Girard tech support. I started leaving messages on Thurs.

[stuben]

Use a breaker bar with a swivel, have the second person on the roof and hold the end with a channel lock pliers while the first person rotates the breaker bar. yes, you only move about 180 each time. Sorry, I don't have any pictures.