Broken claw casting on awning

[roll_along]

Hello! We have a new-to-us 2012 Sport 22' and are in process of getting ready to travel this summer. I noticed that what I think Zip Dee calls the 'claw casting' from their parts list is fractured.

http://awningsbyzipdee.com/media/19b...08ffffd523.pdf

The awning hasn't been used so my best guess is that it shattered against the storage pin while being moved (just normal towing). I've written to Zip Dee and am waiting to hear back but has anyone else had this break? Guesses as to what happened?

[overlander63]

They break almost every time the awning is rolled up with the claw set too close to the main rafter arm. It binds and breaks. In order to prevent this from happening, always make sure the claw is set into the narrower part of the pin that holds it.

[Frank&Mike]

Originally Posted by roll_along

has anyone else had this break? Guesses as to what happened?

Yes, I think I've replaced 4 or 5 of these to-date. Another one of those cheaply manufactured components that you will probably get used to repeatedly replacing. The last time I went ahead and ordered two just so that I would have a spare one on-hand. I've already used that spare.

[SilverGate]

Welcome to the AirForums roll_along!

Like Terry said, this often occurs if the claw bar assembly (part #7) is placed on the larger diameter of the section of the step spacer pin (part #3E).

This can happen if one is in a hurry and not focusing on this detail when stowing the awning.

Your photo shows that it is currently in the correct position, but at some point I suspect that the claw bar was placed on the larger diameter section of the step spacer pin causing undue stress and subsequent damage to the claw bar when the trailer was towed.

Below is a close-up photo of this detail with the claw bar correctly placed on the step spacer pin:

[roll_along]

Thank you! I'll be careful about stowing the claw once we get this replaced. Have you all used a screw to replace the rivet that appears to hold the claw to the bar?

[glennb]

It is not a rivet but a pin that secures the claw. You use a punch and Zip Dee sends great instructions. I always carry a spare.

[overlander63]

Originally Posted by roll_along

Thank you! I'll be careful about stowing the claw once we get this replaced. Have you all used a screw to replace the rivet that appears to hold the claw to the bar?

The bar end, not just the claw, get replacd.

[ROBERT CROSS]

We lost that arm while on the road.
Couldn't figure out why until I noticed that the rear arm assembly was not plumb. It was off vertical by about 3 inches to the rear causing the claw to work it's way onto the larger diameter of that pin. Moved the lower mount forward, no problem since.


It became apparent when I noticed that the front support arm followed the rivet line evenly all the way up to the awning.


Added benefit....the awning now rolls up straight and the wheel lock fit's in the slot straight, no more fighting to get it secured.

Bob

[srpuywa]

Broke one yesterday, do airstream dealers stock them or should I call zip dee

[ROBERT CROSS]

Originally Posted by srpuywa

Broke one yesterday, do airstream dealers stock them or should I call zip dee

Ours broke while visiting relatives, Zip-Dee had the replacement arm to us in two days...call.

Bob

[dkottum]

Originally Posted by roll_along

Hello! We have a new-to-us 2012 Sport 22' and are in process of getting ready to travel this summer. I noticed that what I think Zip Dee calls the 'claw casting' from their parts list is fractured.

http://awningsbyzipdee.com/media/19b...08ffffd523.pdf

The awning hasn't been used so my best guess is that it shattered against the storage pin while being moved (just normal towing). I've written to Zip Dee and am waiting to hear back but has anyone else had this break? Guesses as to what happened?



Attachment 187957

This is straying off topic, but I noticed in your photo you have a clearance lights found on 2011/2012 Airstreams that can rub through the clear coat finish and start corrosion where the light frame ends contact the clear coated shell.

Airstream company is aware of this problem, and has been good standing behind it to get it fixed. Give Airstream Customer Service a call.

Here's a thread on this forum that discusses the issue:

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f142...-31743-99.html

doug

[pmclemore]

I broke a claw in that fashion also - quick rollup at night with winds coming. Always be sure to place the claw on the small race area.

Call ZipDee. Nice folks to deal with.

Pat

[HiHoAgRV]

I always remove the hook from the roller and just let it hang at the side of the trailer before I roll up the awning. It's a few seconds of extra work to pop it off and then lift it back onto the post once the awning is rolled up but I've never broken a claw.

[srpuywa]

Ordered 3 about 5 minutes ago --- $14 a piece

[m.hony]

Apparently that is a common problem. 2 awning claws were broken before we took delivery of the trailer.

[pmclemore]

"Added benefit....the awning now rolls up straight and the wheel lock fit's in the slot straight, no more fighting to get it secured."

Bob, do you just tie it when you're traveling? Do you use new straps each time? I use a velcro strap so I can remove it easily.

Pat

[BicycleStream]

Quick reply to the question whether the dealer carries spares. The dealer I bought my trailer from in Portland does. I bought one as a spare a few months ago because being a newbie I figured I'd break one at some point!

Good luck and thanks to everyone offering help and suggestions. I've learned many great tips! Keep up the good work!

[ROBERT CROSS]

Originally Posted by pmclemore

"Added benefit....the awning now rolls up straight and the wheel lock fit's in the slot straight, no more fighting to get it secured."

Bob, do you just tie it when you're traveling? Do you use new straps each time? I use a velcro strap so I can remove it easily.

Pat

Yep, just while on the road....I love those zippy little buggers.

Also handy for keeping the umbilical attached.

Bob

[LFC]

Try the ones that can be reused.

[BAB]

I have broken two of these claw deals (well my son actually broke one of them). They are really pretty chintzy. Pot metal. Of course they do provide a continual stream of income for Zip Dee.