Is Carefree Awning Roller Tube Compatible with Solera Awning Arms LC281154

Question:

I am putting a power awning on a trailer that has never had an awning on it. I have purchased a used carefree awning roller tube with the fabric and motors already on the tube. I also have the awning rail that screws to the trailer and the fabric slides into. I need to get the arms and then I should have everything I need. My question is will my carefree heads mount on your solera replacement arms? Or do I need to order the conversion kit arms I see on your website that would also replace the motor i already have?

asked by: Mike

Helpful Expert Reply:

My awning contact at Lippert advised that the very first thing to do before you try to install the Carefree awning you have purchased is to contact the maker of the trailer with its VIN to confirm that the internal construction is able to handle the weight of an awning installation. Not all trailers have the internal frame structure required to safely install an awning so this is your first step.

Lippert also advised that the existing motors on your roller tube will not be compatible with their replacement arms # LC281154. You would need to use their 12V Power RV Awning Universal Conversion Kit # LC434723 that includes motors.

My contact also cautioned that once you have confirmed the trailer can handle the weight of an awning it may be far easier to simple install a complete new Solera setup. Using a whole new system will cost more perhaps but will avoid the potential for other compatibility concerns. The linked article on awning installation may be helpful to you.

expert reply by: Adam R