Fixing the Cable Woes: A Guide to Repairing a Broken Awning Cable on Your Pop-Up Camper
The awning cable on a pop-up camper is an essential part of the setup, providing support for the awning and stabilization for the trailer. When the cable breaks, it can be a significant inconvenience and put a damper on any camping plans. Fortunately, it’s possible to repair a broken awning cable yourself if you have the right tools and instructions. Here’s how to tackle this project:
Gather Tools and Supplies
Before beginning the repair, you’ll need to gather all the necessary tools and supplies. You’ll need a pair of needlenose pliers, cable cutters, a hammer, and a cable crimper. Additionally, you’ll need to purchase a new awning cable to replace the broken one. Make sure to get your camper’s correct length and type of cable.
Remove Old Cable
Once you have your tools and supplies, you can start the repair process. Begin by loosening the screws or bolts that secure the cable to the camper frame. Use the needlenose pliers to grip the cable and remove it from the frame. Use the cable cutters to remove any remaining pieces of cable.
Install New Cable
Now that the old cable has been removed, you can install the new one. Start by feeding one end of the cable into the mounting hole in the camper frame. Use the hammer to tap it securely into place. Once it’s in place, run the other end of the cable through the mounting hole on the opposite side of the frame. Secure it with screws or bolts.
Crimp Cable Ends
The last step is to crimp the ends of the cable. This will help keep them from fraying or coming loose. Place one end of the cable into the crimping tool and squeeze it tightly. Make sure to wear gloves when doing this, as the tool can get very hot. Do the same with the other end of the cable.