So what do you do if your trailer doesn’t have an awning rail? Well, there are a few options.
1. You could install an awning rail (this would be the most ideal solution).
2. You could use a EZ-Up canopy.
3. You can possibly clip your awning to your J-rail as a temporary solution.
The third option is what I’m going to have to do for a upcoming vintage trailer rally as I just don’t have enough time to install a awning rail on our 55 Bellwood. Fortunately the J-rail on this trailer has a deep edge which makes it perfect for clipping the awning to it. I don’t think I could do this with my Shasta Compact though as the J-rail on that trailer is much more shallow it appears.
The clips I’m using I picked up at our local Kroger grocery store. They are strong little suckers.
Keep in mind if you go the clip route it may not hold in windy or very rainy conditions. In fact if I find myself in either of those weather conditions I wouldn’t clip the awning on the J-rail. If it’s mild out there shouldn’t be any problem.
I think the other challenge I may have is actually getting the awning clipped on once I get to the campground. I think I’ll have to hijack a picnic table to stand on in order to reach the rail or find a couple of tall fellas to help (=
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Would the industrial strength hook & loop work? A strip on the awning and other strip on the trailer? I really don’t know, but it came to mind as you were describing what you were doing.
BJ, it sounds like it would work in theory but I would be concerned about the strip on the rail having any sort of adhesive backing. You know when you went to remove it someday it might leave some residue that would be a pain to get off.
I just got back from a sotf event and I couldn’t put my awning up because there was not enough space between the trailers 60 of us, some of the girls are using umbrella stands to hold the poles instead of staking them into the ground, they love them
Elaine, good idea on the umbrella stands! Sometimes you just have to have some sort of shade and need to do whatever works (:
I used hook and loop (velcro heavyduty) it works like a charm and so easy to attach the awning!!
Casey,
Thinking of doing this with velco as well and wondering if you ever had any problems as a result?
Thanks!
This post makes me sad….way too long til camping weather comes again. ::sniff::
It’s always camping weather for me and my teardrop
Love your post and pictures. I guess I did not understand what you were clipping too? I have a 1971 Shasta, perfectly restore, but I do not see anything to attach those clips to? Can you help me? Thanks, Becky
Becky, I am presently in the process of researching how to put an awning on my daughter’s Georgie Boy RV that doesn’t move. I would not use Velcro or woodworkers clamps but I would suggest you install an awning rail. This can be purchased in 8′ lengths and cut to your needs and attach it to the side with screws. When you do that, make sure you use a good sealant under the rail and possibly around the rail. Depending on your finances, you can 1. have a canvas awning made, or 2. make your own using a large tarp sewn to a welt that fits the “C” opening in the rail.
If you go the no. 2 route, you will also have to have 2 adjustable tent poles, guy ropes, and tent pegs.
I hope this did not come too late to help you.
Have a Blessed day,
Tom