I have a wonderful 1972 Hi Lo. I have been slowly getting it "up to snuff". What I really desperately need is an awning. I was hoping to find a used one; even just the framework. Part of my problem is that I'm not sure what will work on this type of camper. From what little I have been able to research, most awning frameworks would either swing up way above the roof when the top is down or might drag closer to the ground.

I'm just way out of my element when it comes to what and where to get started in looking for an awning. I would prefer one that can be permanently attached. I have considered using a tarp and poles but its a lot of work for me. I am 67 years old with fibromyalgia so I need to find a drop-down awning that would be fairly simple for me to set up.

Can anyone advise me???

Suzanne

Simple to set up is going to be a power awning. The normal non power type awning still requires moderate effort to extend the support struts once the awning itself is unrolled. And on my HiLo special made brackets extend below the top half for the struts to mount to

A&E 9100 Power Awnings

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Jim

The price in that link for power awnings is much less than I expected.

I agree with Jim. My awning is a 12 ft manual one. The last step, where you extend the lower legs to lift the awning to the proper height takes a bit of strength. It's nothing an average person can't manage, but if you have fibromyalgia, it could be a deal breaker. A 15 ft awning would be heavier and harder to lift.

However, I don't know if the "power" feature of those awnings handles that aspect. I think you should visit a reputable RV dealer and explain your situation. Find out what is available.

- Jack

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Hi-Lo 1707T - Tire Minder TPMS on Tow Vehicle and Trailer, 300W Solar Battery Charger, Equal-i-zer WDH, Progressive Dynamics Converter, Fan-Tastic Fan, LiFePO4 battery 12V DC Electrical System
2014 F150 Platinum 4x4 3.5L EcoBoost SCrew

You'll need these as well.

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"Ruben"
2404T, 2003 2500HD 4X4 GMC Sierra SLT Crew Cab w/Astro camper shell and 2003 Chevy Tahoe LE 4X2
Far West Texas

I just finished retrofitting a spring loaded awning like you see on new campers on my 69 voyager. I'll get some pictures up as soon as I can. It probably isn't the easiest option, but it was one I found in the trash that had snapped in half.

Thank you all for your responses. The information has been helpful. My biggest problem is that I don't want to go to the expense of a new setup...mainly because it would cost me more than the camper did. I was hoping to find a used setup, even if it didn't include the awning fabric. I have been looking at various RV salvage yards around the country but no luck yet. Keep the suggestions coming. I'm an open book.

I just completed an awning fabric replacement at J&R Trailer repair that wasn't as easy as we thought it would be. The awnings used for the Hi-Lo trailer I have was made by A&E, now part of Dometic. It is a model 8500HL, the HL standing for Hi-LO. Although the length,(front to back) is the same as their standard awning, the width,(distance out from the trailer wall) is a foot shorter. Since Hi-Lo went out of business, Dometic no longer had the correct awning in their system. It took three tries before Rob and Jim were able to finally receive the correct size fabric.

I give great credit to J&R for finally getting this straightened out, but I am not impressed with the customer service at Dometic. Also, be aware that the arms that extend the awning are shorter than the standard arms to accommodate the shorter fabric. Anyway, I hope this sheds some light on your quest for replacement fabric and what you might be able to find.

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2006 280C HI-LO
2017 F 250 XLT Diesel Super Crew
Equalizer Hitch