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ArtStream · 06-23-2006, 02:49 PM

Ok, let's install a roadside ZipDee awning!

I ordered mine from forum member Lewster and picked it up at the ZipDee factory in Illinois. I met Linda at the factory, and 2 workers carried out the 19' plus awning in heavy duty shipping tube and loaded in thru the rear window of the Airstream. Linda asked, since so few Airstreams actually show up if she could show a new employee my existing curb side patio. Sure, would you like me to demonstrate the opening and closing procedure? Would you, she said, sure go get the new guy. As I worked the magic awning wand, I could here Linda narrating each procedure. I let the new guy try it also. Linda was very nice and before I left she asked me to wait a moment and she rushed into the office and appeared with goodies, a ZipDee cap and a pair of awning arm helpers, sweet!

Now let's get to work…

ArtStream · 06-23-2006, 02:52 PM

Tools:
Drill
Tape measure
Sharpie marker
1/8 drill bit
7/16 wrench or adjustable
13/64 drill bit
5/32 drill bit
Phillips screw driver
Blind rivet gun
Masking tape
Duct tape
Sikaflex-221
Para bond
Mineral spirits
Rags
Adult beverage
A friend

The only time help was needed was during the sliding of the awning bead into the awning rail.

ArtStream · 06-23-2006, 02:54 PM

The awning was packed great and the install instructions were one page and very clear.
All rivets were included, plus a small tube of Lock-tite and a small piece of double-sided sticky back tape.

ArtStream · 06-23-2006, 02:57 PM

I started by measuring up 4-3/4" from the window rain molding.

I laid down a line with masking tape as a guide for the lower edge of the awning rail and to keep calking from getting all over the place.

I then used Duct tape to place the 2 piece awning rails into place (centered)
Notice, I only used the Duct tape as a hinge so I could flip the awning rail up!

ArtStream · 06-23-2006, 03:01 PM

Following the simple instructions, I marked holes for the 6 heavy duty split rivets (ends and center of both rails) than remaining rivets (every 6" hitting each rib in the process)

Bolstered by a cold beer and much contemplation I preceded to (Yeeks) DRILL holes all over the place.

ArtStream · 06-23-2006, 03:04 PM

Once all the holes were drilled I flipped up the rail in order to apply a bead of Silkflex to the back of the rail. I then flipped the caulked rail down and riveted in the 3 HD split rivets. Once the 3 HD rivets were in place I finished installing the remaining rivets.
I applied a dab of Silkflex over each rivet.

Repeat for the remaining awning rail.

ArtStream · 06-23-2006, 03:09 PM

Next, install the arm hinge castings; I buttered the back with Sikaflex .
Attach the arms to the arm castings and apply lock-tite to the stainless steel bolts.

ArtStream · 06-23-2006, 03:11 PM

Attach the arm head casting to the awning roller tube with stainless steel cotter pins.

ArtStream · 06-23-2006, 03:13 PM

Now it's time to slip the awning bead into the awning rail.
This is where a helping hand is needed.

My friend Irv, constructed a simple yoke to support the awning (brilliant) while I (on a ladder) pulled the awning bead along the awning rail.

This will go very smoothly if you use the support yoke to keep the awning bead level with the awning rail.

ArtStream · 06-23-2006, 03:14 PM

Following the instructions I turned the arm head casting to preload tension to the awning roller spring.

Then the head castings are bolted to the arms and lock-tite applied to the Stainless Steel bolts.

ArtStream · 06-23-2006, 03:16 PM

While the awning bead is still loose in the awning rail adjust the awning so the awning arms are parallel to the vertical rivet line.

Once your happy with the alignment install the small stainless steel Phillips head screws into the awning rail.

ArtStream · 06-23-2006, 03:17 PM

Following the instructions, attach the window awning hook (I buttered the back). In my case the attachment hook ended up too close to the refrigerator access door. I solved this minor problem by twisting the pull strap which shorting it up by an inch.

ArtStream · 06-23-2006, 03:19 PM

Next, open the plastic bag with the parts and instructions for the hold-down latch.
Positioning is made easy with ZippDee's thoughtful addition of a little double sided tape.

ArtStream · 06-23-2006, 03:22 PM

and...

ArtStream · 06-23-2006, 03:26 PM

...then

Pull down your new awning, puff out your chest, (women take note) bask in the coolness of the shadows, and have your friend take your photograph.

This was an nice day of work, relaxed and rewarding.

Questions? I'll do my best.

Michael
aka, Artlink

PS, Remember to support living artists!

Creampuff · 06-23-2006, 05:16 PM

Michael
Thanks for the tutorial. Three of us left coasters are doing a Lew order as we speak and we'll all be loooooking gooood soon in our new awnings.
In my case I'm retiring a relatively new SOB awning off the '57 Flying Cloud in favor of the Zip Dee
Anybody want a 'Fiesta" 12' cheap?

Melody Ranch · 06-23-2006, 06:03 PM

Step one. Take to shop.
Step two. Take out check book.
Step three. Take out ball point pen.
etc., etc., etc.

I just got four Zip Dees for the Caravel. It looks like a Gaff Rig Schooner..but I like it.

lewster · 06-23-2006, 08:39 PM

Nice work Mike!!

If you get any more proficient at that I'll have to put you to work!

**azflycaster** · 06-23-2006, 08:48 PM

Great job, Michael!
I installed a curb side patio on my trailer this winter. The good news for me is that I did not have to install the long rail. I remember the first hole I drilled took forever. It was:
read the directions,
measure the spot,
reread the directions,
remeasure the spot,
take a break,,,,,,
ok, read the directions

ScottW · 09-23-2006, 10:11 PM

OK, I'm impressed. I'm pretty handy also, but I called the dealer, gave the mechanics the last five of my VIN and had them order a matching street side awning. If it leaks, it is their problem. Much easier for me to write that check and feel comfortable that the installation will be done correct.
Nice job, though.
ScottW.
WBCCI # 2845
Air 16426