Zip Dee Awning

[63 Safari]

I have recently purchased a 1963 Safari and it has a Zip Dee Awning. The awning is quite old and is shreading. I don't even know how to pull the awning out or how it works. It's probably been 10 to 15 years since the awning was used.

First question: How do it unfold the awning ? What are my chances of getting it folded back into place ?

Second question: Should I even bother to fix and/or replace the canvas or should I think about buying a new awning?

Third question: If I buy a new awning, what kind ??

Thanks for your help in advance.

Jerry

[InsideOut]

If the mechanics are good, replacement canvas is readily available...and MUCH cheaper than a new awning. Zip Dee uses Sunbrella fabrics which come in tons of colors (solids & stripes) other than the traditional "Airstream Blue" you see on most newer trailers.

Shari

[jjonesnc]

Instructions on how to open the zip dee awning:
http://www.zipdeeinc.com/CurvedAwnOp.html

I wouldnt have any other awning on my AS but a zip-dee.
My 1980 zip dee hardware is in great shape except the fabric which needs replacing......the UV protection on the new fabric is far better than in years past =]
-Jason

[63 Safari]

Thank you Shari and Jason.

Jason you have solved one of the great mysteries in my life. I'm going to run out and try it right now.

Shari - I am very jealous of your shiny Airstream. I am afraid to think about how many hours must have gone into it. Your advice on the canvas is very helpful. I think I might try replacing it myself. And I didn't know about "Airstream Blue".

Jerry

[63 Safari]

I ran outside all excited about fixing my awning and guess what I discovered ?

I don't have a Zip Dee awning but a "Carter Shade". Bummer !!

I don't know why I thought I had a Zip Dee.

I think I am in trouble with the Carter Awning.

Jerry

[jcanavera]

If you are going to keep the trailer for some time, spend the $$ and consider a Zip-Dee. It is the best awning I have ever owned or used on any trailer. This company has its act together.

Jack

[InsideOut]

Originally Posted by 63 Safari

Shari - I am very jealous of your shiny Airstream. I am afraid to think about how many hours must have gone into it. Your advice on the canvas is very helpful. I think I might try replacing it myself.

Thanks for the kudos Jason, but actually, we aren't quite done polishing yet...just compounding. It's still pretty "swirly"...we hope to start cyclo-polishing this weekend or next, but rain/snow may still be in our forecast...argh!!!

If you are having to replace the awning and Zip Dee's are "not for you"...you may want to consider the "retro-look" of a stake & pole awning....similar to the RL Polo trailers or with scallops & fringe. I intend on making one with scallops & fringe for Maxwell once polishing is complete....hopefully by the VAC Rally!

Shari

[CruiserBob]

I am looking for the attachment hardware that fits in the cleat on a 1966 Airsteam Safari.

Any pointers?

[bhayden]

Thanks to all that advised me on the proper set-up of the Zip Dee:

http://www.airforums.com/forum...tml#post244488

As usual the instructions make sense once you know what they're talking about. Then again so does calculus and organic chemistry . This weekend I went solo and set up the awning in 5-10 minutes.

Sunbrella is a great product. I'm not familar with the Carter Shade. Is that an after market addition? I thought Airstream had only used the Zip Dee basicly forever. If the mechanicals are sound why not use the old material for a pattern and have a new one stiched from Sunbrella. If there's a sail loft in your area they should be able to get the fabric and build it for you. Virtually every sail cover out there is made of Sunbrella and blue probably accounts for 99% of the color "choices".

-Bernie