Troubleshooting Solera Smart Arm Power Issues

Question:

My controller will not pass any power through it. I can measure power at the harness when I hit extend and when I hit retract for my awning. Bit it is not making it to the awning motor or lights. Is there a wiring diagram that I can use to by pass the controller? I took my Rv in once and wow, it stayed at the qualified shop for a month waiting on the warranty litigation and new awning to come in. That was two years ago.

asked by: Mike D

Helpful Expert Reply:

It sounds like you either have a lose connection or a just a bad controller. I would start by ensuring your wires are making full contact in the controller and the motor and that you don't have any cuts or damage in the wires along the way that could be causing a short. Check to see if there's power at the motor while pressing the extend or retract buttons to narrow down the issue to the controller or wiring between the motor and the controller. You'll need a minimum of 11.5v for the system to run properly, so if you aren't reading 11.5v or above this could also be the reason the power arms are not functioning.

Next I would check the pins on the controller as they could be damaged or corroded and causing the issues. If the controller needs to be replaced the Replacement Controller and Touchpad Assembly for Solera Smart Arm RV Awnings Item # LC717666 is what you'll need.

I've attached the wiring diagram for the Solera Smart Arm 12V Power RV Awning - 20' Wide - Programmable - Black Fade Item # LC517517 but I do not recommend bypassing the smart arm controller as it may void your warranty.

expert reply by: Kevin C

Solera Power Awning Wiring Diagram
(click to enlarge)

Kenneth

3/18/2024

You said it would void the warranty. What warranty does the LC717666 have?

Kevin C.

3/19/2024

@Kenneth The # LC717666 has a 1-year limited warranty through the manufacturer, but the point I was making above was that if they decided to splice the wiring to bypass the controller they would be voiding any warranty they had on their awning because they wouldn't be following the intended design of the awning.