Carefree of Colorado Freedom Awning User manual

052978-041r1 Printed in USA November, 2008
INSTALLATION MANUAL
FREEDOM AWNING
RV
MOTORIZED PATIO BOX AWNING
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Product Overview.......................................................................................................................... 1
Component Checklist..............................................................................................................................2
Installation ..................................................................................................................................... 3
Installation Using an Awning Rail ...........................................................................................................3
Installation Using the Mounting Plates....................................................................................................5
Bottom Bracket Installation .....................................................................................................................6
Switch Installation......................................................................................................................... 7
Standard Switch and Wiring ...................................................................................................................7
Wiring Using the Relay Module (OEM Installations Only) ......................................................................8
Pitch Adjustment......................................................................................................................... 10

PROPRIETARY STATEMENT
The Freedom Awning is a product of Carefree of Colorado, located in Broomfield, Colorado, USA. The
information contained in or disclosed in this document is considered proprietary to Carefree of Colorado.
Every effort has been made to ensure that the information presented in the document is accurate and
complete. However, Carefree of Colorado assumes no liability for errors or for any damages that result
from the use of this document.
The information contained in this manual pertains to the current configuration of the models listed on the
title page. Earlier model configurations may differ from the information given. Carefree of Colorado
reserves the right to cancel, change, alter or add any parts and assemblies, described in this manual,
without prior notice.
Carefree of Colorado agrees to allow the reproduction of this document for use with Carefree of Colorado
products only. Any other reproduction or translation of this document in whole or part is strictly prohibited
without prior written approval from Carefree of Colorado.
SAFETY INFORMATION
WARNING
AWARNING INDICATES A POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS SITUATION WHICH,IF NOT AVOIDED,COULD RESULT IN
DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY AND/OR MAJOR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
CAUTION
ACAUTION INDICATES A POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS SITUATION THAT MAY CAUSE MINOR TO MODERATE
PERSONAL INJURY AND/OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.IT MAY ALSO BE USED TO ALERT AGAINST UNSAFE PRACTICES.
NOTE: A note indicates further information about a product, part, or step.
Tip: A tip provides helpful suggestions.
Safety Notes:
•Always disconnect battery or power source before working on or around the electrical system.
•Always wear appropriate safety equipment (i.e. goggles).
•Always use appropriate lifting devices and/or helpers when lifting or holding heavy objects.
•When using fasteners, use care to not over tighten. Soft materials such as fiberglass and aluminum
can be "stripped out" and lose the ability to grip and hold.
Reference Publications located @ www.carefreeofcolorado.com:'
xxxxxx-xxx Installation Manual
xxxxxx-xxx Owner's Manual
xxxxxx-xxx Service Manual
Carefree of Colorado 2145 W. 6
th
Avenue Broomfield, CO 80020
aScott Fetzer company www.carefreeofcolorado.com

Carefree of Colorado Installation Manual FREEDOM W/EXTERNAL MOTOR
052978-041r1 1
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
The Freedom Awnings are state of the art lateral arm awnings. When retracted, the housing provides
protection against the elements while the streamlined styling blends in with the coach side wall. The full
tension canopy fabric allows the awning to be partially or fully extended for best shade coverage.
Each unit is equipped with lateral support arms. No vertical arms interfere with coach sidewalls, custom
graphics or equipment that may be mounted on the sidewalls.
Freedom Awning Specifications:
•Fully retractable and self storing;
•Available as manual or motorized;
•The sealed awning motor operates on standard 12VDC (range 10VDC to 14VDC);
•Case and frame are constructed of high-strength aluminum extrusions, protected with a polyester paint finish;
Available Widths: 8' 9' 10' 11' 12' 13'
Extension: 6' 1" 6' 6" 8'
LEADING EDGE POSITION ACTUATION AND CONTROL
Power: Lateral Arm Spring Minimum Tension Open
Position Control: Roll Out/In Controlled by Electrical Motor
MOTOR SPECIFICATIONS
Motor Type: External Right Angle Drive
Power: 12VDC Minimum: 8VDC Output: 30 Watts
Nominal Current: 2.5Amps Max Current: 14Amps (stall @ min voltage)
Power Source: Motor and controls are routed and hardwired into the vehicle’s 12V system
Emergency Retract: Electrical override system (external power source)
COLORS AVAILABLE
Case Standard: Black
Fabric: Woven Acrylic Fabric (refer to sales literature for colors available)
8”
(approx)
Awning Width
Fabric Width 3”
(approx)
5 1/2”
7 1/4”
3 7/8”
FIII001d
Pivot Pivot
30” - 38”
(optimum)
50”
(maximum)
Support Legs
Stored Inside Lead Rail
Top of Door to
Bottom of Case
Clearance:
3” Minimum
Wall Mount
Bottom Bracket for
Support Legs
1 3/8” x 2 1/8”
Figure 1. General Dimensions

FREEDOM W/EXTERNAL MOTOR Installation Manual Carefree of Colorado
2 052978-041r1
COMPONENT CHECKLIST
FIII013b
1
2
3
4
5
6 7 9
10
11
13
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14
16
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FreedomPatio Awning
FreedomWindow andOtD Awnings
SpecialNote: This manual prov idesa basicdescription of theproductand the standard
operating controls providedby Carefreeof Colorado. Some Original Equipment
Manufacturers(OEM's) may alter or change the placement, style and/or functional
configuration ofthe switches. If your controls do not match thestyle or description
included, contact the coach manufacturer for an accurate description.OEM furnished
componentsarenot covered by the Carefree warranty.
12
17
Figure 2. Component Checklist.
;ITEM DESCRIPTION QTY NOTE
1 Awning Assembly 1 1
2 Awning Rail 1
HARDWARE KITS (application depending on Awning Length, see note 2) ABC 2
3 Mounting Plate 1 1/2" 1 1 2
4 Mounting Plate 3" 2 - -
5 Mounting Plate 15 3/4" - 2 2
6 Screw, Hex Head #10 x 3/4 20 20 20
7 Screw, Lag 1/4 x 1 1/2 3 3 3
8 Carriage Screw 1/4-28 x 2 5 9 10
9 Lock Washer 1/4 5 9 10
10 Nut 1/4-28 5 9 10
11 Fender Washer 1/4 5 9 10
12 Screw, Phillips Pan Head #6 x 3/8 5 9 10
13 Bottom Bracket 2 2 2
14 Screw, Flat Head #10 x 3/4 4 4 4
15 Moly Rivet 3/16 x 1/2 4 4 4
16 Owner's Manual 1 1 1 3
ELECTRICAL
17 Switch, DPDT, Momentary Contact 1
18 Switch Plate, Single Switch 1
19 Screw #6 x 1/2 4
20 Spade Connector, Female 4
Notes: 1. Specific awning configuration is specified at time of order, including awning length, fabric, color etc.
Check awning assembly against original purchase order.
2. Hardware Kits are based on awning length:
A = 9' or shorter B = 10'-11' C = 12'-13'
3. Place the Owner's Manual (item 16) with RV owner information. Installation manual, if
included is for installer reference.

Carefree of Colorado Installation Manual FREEDOM W/EXTERNAL MOTOR
052978-041r1 3
INSTALLATION
CAUTION
WHEN OPENING THE AWNING IT IS POSSIBLE TO OVER EXTEND THE CANOPY BY
HOLDING THE EXTEND BUTTON AFTER THE AWNING IS OPEN.THIS CAUSES THE
FABRIC TO ROLL THE WRONG DIRECTION ON THE ROLLER TUBE.THE AWNING WILL
NOT OPERATE CORRECTLY.IF THIS HAPPENS,HOLD THE SWITCH IN THE RETRACT
POSITION UNTIL THE FABRIC ROLLS ON THE TUBE AS SHOWN.
Prior to mounting the awning:
Two mounting methods are available for the Freedom awning. The awning may be mounted using an awning rail.
When this is not practical, the awning may be mounted using a set of mounting brackets (refer to page 5).
•Review both mounting methods to determine the best mounting method for the particular application. The
awning rail must be attached to structural components for stability. The awning rail can be mounted to a blind
surface while the mounting brackets require access to the inside of the mounting surface.
•If there is an awning rail installed, check that the awning rail runs the full length of the awning. The
awning rail must be extremely straight to accommodate the awning mount. If a full length awning rail is
installed, skip to step 6 under “Installation Using an Awning Rail”.
•Ensure that the awning does not interfere with equipment such as light fixtures, exhaust vents, openings, etc.
INSTALLATION USING AN AWNING RAIL
1. Determine the optimum positioning of the awning.
•The centerline of the awning fabric is offset from the centerline of the awning assembly. To align
the center of the fabric, use the backplate of the awning assembly for measurements.
•When installed, the bottom of the awning case is 5 1/4” from the centerline of the awning rail. The
rail must be mounted a minimum of 7” above openings to avoid interference.
•Measure rail position so that the awning is mounted parallel to the ground.
NOTE: Two styles of awning rail are available. When mounting the
rail, the slot must be pointed down.
2. Mark the centerline position with a chalk line.
3. Coat the back of the rail with silicone sealant or putty tape.
4. Align the awning rail onto the wall and secure with #10 x 3/4 screws.
Use all the attach holes and ensure that the rail is securely mounted to
the structural frame.
5. Lightly spray the inside track of the awning rail with a silicone lubricant.
6. Using a minimum of two people, lift the awning up and tilt as shown.
Mounting
Rail
Awning
Rail
Mariner002
5 1/4"
(ref)
7"
(ref)
Figure 4. Mount Using Awning Rail.
FIII038
Fabric Must Roll on
the Tube from the
Underside
Standard Inverted
FIII029
Figure 3. Awning Rail Styles.

FREEDOM W/EXTERNAL MOTOR Installation Manual Carefree of Colorado
4 052978-041r1
7. Hook the mounting rail into the awning rail and roll down.
8. Adjust the position of the awning horizontally as required. It may be necessary to lightly lift the awning
so that it will slide in the awning rail.
9. Lift the awning upward slightly. On the coach wall, mark the location of where the motor wires exit the
awning case. Measure and drill one 1/4” hole through the outer wall at the mark.
NOTES: Adjust the location as required. Measure to avoid any interior framing, cabinets,
electrical components etc. that could be damaged or interfere with the hole location.
Ensure that the motor cables are accessible after routing in the next step.
This is a preliminary step, the wire and switch installation are completed after the
awning is secured.
10. Route the motor wires through the hole and seal with silicone sealant.
11. Rotate the awning down.
12. Open the awning.
NOTE: To open the motorized awning, momentarily connect the motor wires to a 9-18VDC
drill battery or car battery. If the motor runs in the reverse direction, reverse the
leads.
13. (Refer to figure 4) Drill three (3) 3/16” holes through the back of the case into the mounting surface
and into the structure. Use care to not drill through the inner wall.
Drill Area Drill Area Drill Area
Arm AnchorArm Anchor Centered
Between
Arms
Mariner009
Figure 5. Securing the Awning Case.
14. Drill out the 3/16” holes in the awning case to 5/16”. Do not allow the drill to extend into the wall.
CAUTION
THE SCREWS MUST BE LOCATED IN THE OPEN AREAS OF THE AWNING CASE AS SHOWN.THE ARMS CANNOT
CLOSE COMPLETELY IF THE SCREW HEADS ARE UNDERNEATH.
15. Secure the awning using three (3) 1/4 x 1 1/2 lag screws.
16. For patio awnings go to "Bottom Bracket Installation" on page 6.

Carefree of Colorado Installation Manual FREEDOM W/EXTERNAL MOTOR
052978-041r1 5
INSTALLATION USING THE MOUNTING PLATES
1. Determine the optimum positioning of the awning.
•The centerline of the awning fabric is offset from the centerline of the awning assembly. To align
the center of the fabric, use the backplate of the awning assembly for measurements.
•The bottom of the mounting plates should be above any openings or frames to avoid interference
when the awning is installed.
•Measure each end of the awning position from the ground so that the awning is mounted parallel to
the ground.
Edge of Back Plate Edge of Back Plate
Edge of Back Plate Edge of Back Plate
Edge of Back Plate Edge of Back Plate
Equal Spacing
ABB
ACC
ACCA
8 - 9 foot Awning
10 - 11 foot Awning
12 - 13 foot Awning
A = 1 1/2" B = 3" C = 15 3/4"
FIII017b
Back Plate
Figure 6. Mounting Plate Pattern.
2. Mark the position with a chalk line.
3. Determine the correct plate pattern. Use the plates as a template and drill 5/16” hole(s) through the
wall. Attach the plate using the supplied 1/4 x 2 carriage bolts, fender washers, lock washers and
nuts.
FIII006a
Mounting Plate
1/4-20
Carriage Bolt
Fender Washer
5/16 Holes
thru Wall
Lock Washer
1/4-20 Nut Back Plate
Mounting Plate #8 x 1/2
Screw
Figure 7. Mount Using Plates.

FREEDOM W/EXTERNAL MOTOR Installation Manual Carefree of Colorado
6 052978-041r1
4. For motorized awnings only:
•Using the awning back plate, measure the location where the motor wires exit the awning case.
•Transfer the measurement to the coach wall using the mounting plates as reference.
NOTES: Adjust the location as required. Measure to avoid any interior framing, cabinets,
electrical components etc. that could be damaged or interfere with the hole
location.
Ensure that the motor wires are accessible after routing.
This is a preliminary step, the wire and switch installation are completed after the
awning is secured.
•Drill a 1/4" hole through the outer coach wall.
•Route the motor wires through the hole while lifting the awning into position.
5. Set the awning into the hooks of the mounting plates.
6. Adjust the position of the awning horizontally as required.
7. (Refer to Figure 7) Attach the mounting plates to the awning case using the self-tapping #6 x 3/8
screws.
•For patio awnings go to "Bottom Bracket Installation" on page 6.
BOTTOM BRACKET INSTALLATION
The patio awning is equipped with vertical supports. These supports extend from the leading edge of the
awning to a bracket mounted on the wall or may be used in a carport position on the ground.
1. Determine the location of the brackets:
•Open the Awning approximately 6" or enough to see the support legs in the leading edge.
•Mark the location of the pivot point of the legs.
•At the marks made previously, measure down vertically and mark the location of the brackets. The ideal
location is 30" to 38" below the bottom of the awning. The brackets will work up to a maximum of 50 "
below the awning.
FIII018b
Bottom Bracket
#10 x 3/4
Flat Head Screws
or
Moly Rivets
Leg Pivot
O 5/32” Pilot Hole
Pivot Pivot
30” - 38”
(optimum)
50”
(maximum)
Support Legs
Stored Inside Lead Rail
Wall Mount
Bottom Bracket for
Support Legs
1 3/8” x 2 1/8”
Figure 8. Wall Mounted Support Plate.
2. Center the brackets on the location marks and using the bracket as a template, drill two (2) 5/32” pilot
holes.
3. Attach the plate with two (2) #10 x 3/4 flat head screws.

Carefree of Colorado Installation Manual FREEDOM W/EXTERNAL MOTOR
052978-041r1 7
SWITCH INSTALLATION
STANDARD SWITCH AND WIRING
1. Determine the location of the switch.
•There is approximately 8’ of wire from the point of entry.
•Location should provide the operator a view of the awning during operation.
•The switch requires a 2 3/4” x 2 3/4” area on the mounting surface and a minimum clearance depth
of 2 3/4” from the mounting surface.
2 3/4"
(typ.)
2 3/4"
(min.)
Locking
Tabs
Covered Terminals
on Bottom
O 2 1/4" Wall
Front View of Switch Panel
Rear View of
Switch Panel
FIII007
Blue Brown
Carefree of Colorado
Ground +12VDC
6
5B
4
3
2B
1
Figure 9. Switch Installation.
WARNING
TERMINALS 1AND 4ARE CAPPED WITH FULLY INSULATED CONNECTORS.THESE TERMINALS MUST REMAIN
CAPPED AT ALL TIMES.
2. Using a 2 1/4” hole saw, cut a hole through the mounting surface.
3. Route the awning wires through the hole and terminate with spade connectors.
CAUTION
ALWAYS DISCONNECT THE BATTERY AND ELECTRICAL SOURCES BEFORE WORKING WITH THE ELECTRICAL
WIRING.
4. Run a 14 gauge wire (never use less than 16 gauge) from the power distribution panel (auxiliary
battery circuit) or equivalent. The circuit should be protected by a 15 amp fuse.
5. Run a wire to system ground.
6. Route the two new wires through the hole and terminate with spade connectors.
7. Push the switch into the face plate until the tabs on the switch “click” into place behind the face plate.
Ensure that the switch and face plate are oriented as shown.
8. Attach the four wires to the switch as shown.
9. Restore vehicle power and test operation.
10. If the awning operates in a reverse to the switch plate markings:
•Shut off power;
•Reverse the red and black motor leads;
•Restore power and test.
11. Push the wires and switch into the mounting hole and secure the plate using four (4) #6 x 1/2” screws.

FREEDOM W/EXTERNAL MOTOR Installation Manual Carefree of Colorado
8 052978-041r1
WIRING USING THE RELAY MODULE (OEM INSTALLATIONS ONLY)
The relay module is used only with selected OEM installations.
CAUTION
ALWAYS DISCONNECT THE VEHICLE BATTERY AND ELECTRICAL SOURCES BEFORE WORKING WITH THE
ELECTRICAL WIRING.
NOTE: a) The switch(es) must be momentary on, single pole, double throw, center OFF
(Momentary ON – OFF – Momentary ON).
b) The recommended cable from the switch to the awning should be 2-conductor, 20AWG,
stranded, PVC coated, unshielded wire.
1. Route a cable for the motor wires from the motor location through the carriage walls to the location of
the switch/relay module.
2. Butt-splice the motor wires to the installer furnished cable wires. Match the wire colors.
3. Determine the location of the switch.
•Location should provide the operator a view of the shade during operation.
•Follow the switch manufacturer’s directions for preparing the switch mount location.
•The relay module must be mounted within 16” or less of the switch location.
4. Separate the wires from the relay module into 3 groups:
•Brown, yellow and gray with spade terminals (primary switch),
•Black and red with spade terminals (power leads),
•Connector bundle with: Brown, yellow and gray (switch), and Blue and White (motor).
NOTE: The relay module harness is supplied with one connector installed. The installer must
furnish the mating connector (p/n 1-480704) and terminals (p/n 350547-3) for the
exterior switch and motor cables. Vendor: AMP/Tyco Electronics. Alternately, the
installer may cut off the connector and butt-splice the wires as shown in Detail A of
Figure 10.
5. Measure and cut away any excess cable from the motor and primary switch wires. Terminate the
wires and install in the mating connector as shown below.
4. Run an 18 gauge wire from the power distribution panel (auxiliary battery circuit) or equivalent to the relay
module. The circuit should be protected by a 5 amp fuse (the motor has a maximum 2 amp stall current).
5. Run a wire from chassis ground to the relay module. Suitable ground would be the vehicle chassis or
conductive structure connected to the chassis.
6. Butt-splice the two wires to the power wire leads on the module. Black is ground, red is +12VDC.
7. Restore vehicle power and test the switch operation. Note which direction raises the shade and which
direction lowers the shade.
8. Orient the switch so that pushing the switch up corresponds with raising the shade, pushing the switch
down corresponds with lowering the shade. Install the switch into the mounting surface.
NOTE: If the switch cannot be reoriented, reverse the top and bottom leads to the switch to
reverse awning direction.
9. On the relay module, remove the paper cover on the adhesive foam and press the module onto a flat surface.

Carefree of Colorado Installation Manual FREEDOM W/EXTERNAL MOTOR
052978-041r1 9
Red
Black Blue
White
Gray
Yellow
Brown
Rear View of Connectors Shown
PV3007
6
4
5
1
2
1
2
6
4
5
Relay
Module
Motor
+12VDC
Black
Red
Installer Furnished
Switch
SPDT Center OFF
Common
Retract
Extend
Common
Retract
Extend
Gray
Brown
Yellow
Gray
Yellow
Brown
Installer Furnished
Switch
SPDT Center OFF
Blue
Brown
Blue
White
Gray
Brown
Yellow
Gray
Brown
Yellow
Detail A
Alternate Wire Connection
Butt Splice
(5 plcs)
A
Figure 10. Relay Module Wiring Diagram.

FREEDOM W/EXTERNAL MOTOR Installation Manual Carefree of Colorado
10 052978-041r1
PITCH ADJUSTMENT
The Freedom series of awnings provides minor pitch adjustment. This adjustment is for fine-tuning the
installation to align the lead rail with the case.
CAUTION
WHEN THE PITCH OF THE AWNING IS ADJUSTED,IT IS IMPORTANT THAT THE LEAD RAIL IS PARALLEL TO THE
AWNING HOUSING.
1. Open the awning to access the adjustment screw located
on the case connector.
2. Slightly loosen the arm attach bolt located on the side of
the housing.
3. Have a second person lift up on the lead rail to relieve
the pressure on the adjustment screw.
4. Turn the adjustment screw clockwise to raise the lead rail;
turn the adjustment screw counterclockwise to lower the lead
rail.
5. After making the adjustment, tighten the arm attach bolt on
the side of the housing.
6. Repeat for the other side as necessary.
NOTES:
Arm Attach Bolt
Adjustment Screw
FIII039