Question
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Followup To
Question -
I have a Carefree of Colorodo Awning and I was wondering if you could tell me how I can re-tension the spring or replace it. It's only about four years old and it will no longer roll up on its own. Thank You.
Answer -
This is kind of tricky, and can be dangerous if not handled carefully. I have broken several fingers and knuckles doing this. Unless you have experienced help, mechanically, or are very inclined, I do not recommend this repair to anyone other than a repair facility. If you feel comfortable after knowing this, let me know and I will be happy to instruct you.
GarryMe and my son are both mechanics and feel comfortable attempting this repair, so if you could send the instructions I would greatly appreciate it.
thank you
AnswerNot a problem, I just like to make sure.
These springs are like over head door springs and they can get someone hurt.
roll the awning out. on the camlock end, lock a pair of vice grips to the end cap of the spring assembly, and remove the screw at the top/ outer face of the main arm. One person should support the awning tube and the other handle the spring assembly. Rotate the spring using the vice grips turning it away from the body of the unit, counter clockwise looking at it from the end. 5 or 6 turns should be sufficient. The cam lock should hold the spring so that you will not fight it so much. slide the end cap back into the main arm and resecure with the screw you removed earlier.
Basically you repeate the procedure for the rear spring, however the rotation will be clockwise AND most of all, you will be fighting the spring tension on this end, there is no catch to hold the spring. If the vice grips slip or your hand slips off the vice grips this can be very dangerous.
This is the end you have to be careful on.
Good luck and be safe
Garry
