Broken RV Awning Arm Replacement

How to Replace an RV Awning Arm in Just 5 Steps

Have you ever felt the disappointment of a broken RV awning? You finally arrive at your destination and start setting up camp, only to be frustrated by an awning that won’t open right.

Never fear!

If your RV awning arm is the problem, replacing it is actually much easier than you might think.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of how to replace an RV awning arm step by step. We’ll cover the tools needed for the job, what’s involved in removal of the old arm and what steps you’ll need to take for a proper installation.

Note that the information in this blog applies to Lippert awnings, particularly our Solera manual awning arm. Specific procedures for your setup may differ, so be sure to refer to your owner’s manual.

Tools Needed for Awning Arm Replacement:

  • Ladder
  • Drill or cordless screw gun
  • Socket set
  • Phillips bit
  • Square head bits
  • Silicone sealant
  • Helper

Replacing an RV Awning Arm Step by Step

Step 1: Partially open the awning

Unroll your RV awning about one foot out from the sidewall. This will give you enough space to work while still keeping things easily accessible. To keep the roller assembly from rotating while you work, place a cotter pin in the proper hole in the end cap.

Open Awning to Access ArmOpen Awning to Access Arm

Step 2: Remove the upper bracket

To begin removing the RV awning arm, start by unscrewing the lag screws in the upper bracket. This will allow the inner arm to be detached from the sidewall. With the inner arm unbolted, collapse it into the extension arm and snap it into place with the travel lock.

Remove Awning Arm Bracket BoltsRemove Awning Arm Bracket Bolts

Step 3: Detach the roller assembly

With your helper holding the RV awning arm, remove the screw holding the arm to the end cap of the roller. This will allow the arm and roller to be separated, so make sure both are properly supported – don’t drop the roller! Then, separate the roller assembly from the arm, and have your helper remove the old awning arm entirely.

You’re halfway there!

Separate Awning Arm and Roller TubeSeparate Awning Arm and Roller Tube
Install New Awning Arm HardwareInstall New Awning Arm Hardware

Step 4: Install the new awning arm

Attach the new arm onto the lower sidewall bracket first. Then, snap the roller assembly back onto the top of the new arm. You can reinstall the setscrew previously removed from the old arm. Next, release the travel lock on the inner arm and fold it back out so it can be reattached to the sidewall. Make sure you bolt the bracket at the same position it was before, using the same holes and same lag screws.

Also, we recommend adding some silicone sealant to the holes to seal out moisture and protect your RV.

Position Stop Bolt for Proper Awning OperationPosition Stop Bolt for Proper Awning Operation

Step 5: Reset the RV awning for operation

To get your awning in good working order with the new arm in place, remove the cotter pin from the roller assembly end cap. You might have to twist the roller tube slightly to get the pin out. Once it’s out, the roller should rotate freely.

Next, you’ll need to set the stop bolt on the new arm. Start by opening the support handle and sliding the arm up or down as needed. Then, close the handle and slide the lower channel until the locking pin clicks in place in the nearest hole. Mark the position of the stop hole that is right below the upper channel. This is where you’ll need to install the stop bolt to keep the awning from overextending. Open the awning to access the inside of the channel and install the stop bolt with the provided hardware.

And you’re done!

You can now go back to enjoying your awning and that next big adventure.

Solera RV Awning Parts Diagram

If you’d like more info or a visual reference for the RV awning parts referred to in the steps above, please see our RV Awning Parts Diagrams with Definitions blog post.

If you have questions or get stuck at any point during the replacement process, remember you can always reach out to our Customer Support team.

Disclaimer: These photographs, recommendations, and approximations are intended for demonstration purposes only and do not reflect the specifications of any particular tow vehicle, recreational vehicle, or trailer. Always consult the manufacturer’s Owner’s Manual.