Carefree Awning assembly?

BossCamper · 10-03-2009, 11:51 PM

I have a Carefree Awning that goes with our 1973 Tradewind. I believe it should look like this.
http://www.airforums.com/photos/show...?i=15111&c=504
The problem is that it is in pieces. I have the straight (smaller square) bars that are fastened to the trailer, but the wider curved bars are off along with the roller and awning. I have no idea how they go together, or even if it is complete. I suspect that at the least I am missing some pins, or bolts. Where can I find assembly instructions and/or parts diagram for awning bars of this age? Or does someone have pictures of the bars assembled with enough detail for me to see how to put mine together.
Even if I knew how this awning goes up, I might be able to figure how to assemble it. we have an SOB with an A&E awning, but looking at the pieces of the carefee, it doesn't look to operate the same.
I don't know anyone else with an airstream, let alone one with awning bars like ours, to just go and look.

I have just started the restore, so am obviously a long way from needing the awning but it has been bugging me.

Thanks

Loris

overlander63 · 10-04-2009, 02:27 AM

There are several pieces on each end. There is the main arm, in two pieces. One piece slides up and down outside the lower piece, and has a release lever to allow the arm to move up and down/in and out. There is the brace for this, which looks like the part that's still on your trailer. It will slide up and lock into place near the roller tube. There is the tube, with flip release lever, which goes toward the front of the trailer. There are two caps on the tube, one with a heavy spring on it, toward the front. There are pivots latches along the rub rail, where the main awning arms pivot. Some are spring-loaded latches, which allow you to unlatch them and place the arms on the ground, keeping you from conking your head on the arms. There is also the swivel for the brace, which would be near the awning rail.
With the exception of the curved main arms, all the parts should be available from Care Free.

Lumatic · 10-04-2009, 08:05 AM

I might have some of the brackets that attach to the coach. Send me a PM

BossCamper · 10-04-2009, 11:15 AM

I'll post some pics of what I do have. My biggest question is "how does it all go together?" I suspect I have it all, but it isn't obvious to me how to assemble it.

**Kevin245** · 10-04-2009, 11:20 AM

Here is some factory literature. We have Carefree Awnings on both rigs. Let me know if you need specific information.

I you need them in PDF let me know.

Regards,

Kevin

BossCamper · 10-04-2009, 03:58 PM

Kevin245, that's perfect! Exactly what I was looking for.

You guys rock!

Thanks
Loris

**Kevin245** · 10-04-2009, 06:56 PM

Hey Loris,

Received your PM. Will post pdf copies here Monday. PM me with an email address if you want them emailed to you.

Regards,

Kevin

BossCamper · 10-04-2009, 11:23 PM

Thanks, Kevin ... email address on the way.
I took a quick look at my hardware before I left for work tonight, and I either have a different model, or there are some pieces missing. Once I get a chance print the images and to really check it out with the gear, I will know better.

Loris

**Kevin245** · 10-05-2009, 06:36 AM

Hey Loris,

I emailed the pdf copy to you. When you get the pieces sorted out give me a shout if I can help.

Regards,

Kevin

PS Here's the pdf should anyone else need it.

RichHog · 11-15-2009, 08:02 PM

Wow, Thanks Kevin for the Carefree pdf. I've been trying for some time to figure out how the arms lock in position. Now I know I'm missing some knobs and pins. Finding the parts is the next challenge.