Carefree of Colorado Freedom Awning User manual

052563-001r2 Printed in USA January, 2010
I NSTALLATION M ANUAL
FREEDOM AWNING
MOTORIZED OR MANUAL LATERAL ARM BOX AWNING
RV
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Product Overview.......................................................................................................................... 1
Component Checklist..............................................................................................................................2
Installation .....................................................................................................................................3
Attaching the Mounting Plates................................................................................................................3
Mounting the Awning......................................................................................................................4
Installation Using an Awning Rail ...........................................................................................................5
Bottom Bracket Installation .....................................................................................................................6
Switch Installation (motorized awnings only).............................................................................7
Pitch Adjustment...........................................................................................................................8
Setting the Motor Limits ...............................................................................................................9
Adjusting the OUT Limit Switch......................................................................................................9
Adjusting the IN Limit Switch..........................................................................................................9
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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:'
052563-001 Installation Manual
052563-201 Owner's Manual
052563-301 Service Manual
Carefree of Colorado 2145 W. 6
th
Avenue Broomfield, CO 80020
aScott Fetzer company 303-469-3324 ♦www.carefreeofcolorado.com
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Carefree Installation Manual FREEDOM WM
052563-001r2 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 sidewall. 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;
Stainless steel fasteners and hardware.
SPECIFICATIONS
Widths: centimeters 257 300 350 400 450 500
inches 101 118 138 157 177 197
Extension: 200cm (80") 250cm (98")
LEADING EDGE POSITION ACTUATION AND CONTROL
Power: Lateral Arm Spring Minimum Tension Open
Position Control: Motorized: Roll Out/In Controlled by Electrical Motor
Manual: Roll Out/In Controlled by Manual Crank
MOTOR SPECIFICATIONS
Motor Type: Tubular
Power: 12VDC Minimum: 10VDC 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
Torque Continuous: 6Nm/4.5 ft-lbs. Tightening: 18Nm/13.2 ft-lbs.
Speed 15 rpm
COLORS AVAILABLE
Case Satin, White or Black
Fabric:
1
Vinyl
Awning Width
Fabric Width
wm001
9.7cm
[3.8”]
14.8cm
[5.8”]
16.5cm
[6.5”]
10.8cm
[4.25”]
5.7cm
[2.25”]
Figure 1. General Dimensions.
Special Note: Dimensions are provided in centimeters. Conversion formulas are provided below;
Inches = Centimeters =Millimeters
2.54 25.4
Centimeters = Inches x 2.54 Millimeters = Inches x 25.4
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FREEDOM WM Installation Manual Carefree of Colorado
2 052563-001r2
COMPONENT CHECKLIST
1
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FreedomPatioAwning
FreedomWindow and OtD Awnings
SpecialNote: This manual provides abasic des criptionof the product and thestandard
operating controls provided by Carefreeof Colorado. Some Original Equipment
Manufacturers (OEM's) may alter or change the placement, style and/or functional
configurationofthe switches. If yourcontrols do not match the style or description
included, contact the coach manufacturer for anaccurate description. OEM furnished
componentsarenot covered by theCarefree warranty.
3
14
WM003
Figure 2. Component Checklist.
ITEM DESCRIPTION QTY NOTE
1 Awning Assembly 1 1
HARDWARE KITS (application depending on Awning Length, see note 2) A B 2
2 Mounting Plate 12cm [4 3/4"] 3 2
3 Mounting Plate 40 cm [15.75"] - 2
4 Screw, Lag #14 x 1 1/2" 3 3
5 Carriage Screw M6-1 x 150mm 6 12
6 Fender Washer 6 12
7 Lock Washer 6 12
8 Nut, Nylock M6 6 12
9 Screw, Phillips Pan Head #6 x 3/8" 6 8
10 Bottom Bracket 2
11 Screw, Flat Head #10 x 3/4" 4
12 Owner's Manual 1 5
13 Crank Handle, "Hook" Used with Manual Crank Only 1 3
14 Switch Kit Used with Motorized Only 1 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 = 4m or shorter B = 4.5m and 5.0m
3. Crank Handle (item 13) used with manual crank version only.
4. Switch kit (Item 14) used with motorized version only
5. Place the Owner's Manual (item 12) with RV owner information. Installation manual, if
included is for installer reference.
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Carefree Installation Manual FREEDOM WM
052563-001r2 3
INSTALLATION
Two standard methods are available to mount the Freedom awning. The awning may be mounted using a
set of mounting plates that attaches to the vehicle wall (refer to page 3) If using adaptor brackets, follow the
instructions included with bracket kit then proceed with "Mounting the Awning" on page 4. The awning may
also be mounted using an existing awning rail.
Prior to mounting the awning:
Review both mounting methods to determine the best mounting method for the particular application. 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. The rail must be attached to
structural components for stability.
Ensure that the awning will not interfere with other equipment such as light fixtures, exhaust vents,
openings, etc.
ATTACHING 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 5cm [2"] 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.
1cm [7/16”]
24cm [9.5”]
48cm [19”]
Edge of Back Plate Edge of Back Plate
Center of Back Plate
5.0m
Edge of Back Plate Edge of Back Plate
168cm [66”] 168cm [66”]
9cm [3.5”] 4.5cm [1.75”]
Awning Length
12cm40cm
148cm [58.25”] 148cm [58.25”]
4.5m
3.0m
or less
3.5m
4.0m
12cm 40cm
12cm12cm
12cm
WM002
1cm [7/16”]
24cm [9.5”]
48cm [19”]
1cm [7/16”]
14cm [5.5”]
1cm [7/16”]
14cm [5.5”]
Figure 3. Mounting Plate Pattern.
2. Mark the position with a chalk line.
3. Determine the correct plate pattern then use the plates as a
template and drill 8mm [5/16"] holes through the vehicle wall
to match the plates.
4. Attach the plates using the supplied M6-1 x 50mm carriage
bolts, fender washers, lock washers and nuts.
M6-1 x 50mm Carriage Bolt
8mm [5/15”] Hole
Nylock Nut
Lock Washer
Fender Washer
WM004
Mounting Plate
Figure 4. Typical Plate Attach.
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FREEDOM WM Installation Manual Carefree of Colorado
4 052563-001r2
5. For motorized awnings only:
The motor wire comes out of the back of the motor end cap. Use the dimensions shown to locate
the hole into the vehicle.
NOTES: The hole location can be located in
the areas shown to avoid interior framing,
cabinets and electrical components that could be
damaged or interfere with the hole location.
Ensure that the motor wires are accessible after
routing. There is 180cm [70"] of wire furnished with
the motor. If the final routing to the switch location
is greater than the supplied wire from the motor, the
installer must splice additional 18awg wire to the
motor wires.
Wire and splices must be furnished by the installer.
This is a preliminary step, the wire and switch installation are completed after the awning is
secured.
Drill an 8mm hole through the outer vehicle wall.
Mounting the Awning
Back Plate
Mounting Plate
#6 x 3/8” Screw
(2 per Bracket)
WM005
For Motorized Awnings,
Route Motor Cable
through Groove in
Back Case
Figure 6. Mounting the Awning.
1. Set the awning into the hooks of the mounting plates.
For motorized awnings: Route the motor wires through the hole drilled previously while lifting the
awning into position.
Tip: If the wire is routed along the back of the case, use small pieces of tape to hold the wire in place
while lifting the awning.
2. Adjust the position of the awning horizontally as required.
3. (Refer to Figure 4) Attach the awning case to the mounting plates using two (2) self-tapping #6 x 3/8"
screws for each bracket.
Edge of Back Plate
16mm [5/8”]5mm [3/16”] (min.)
8mm [5/16”]
Hole thru Wall
Locate hole in these areas
WM007
Figure 5. Motor Wire Routing.
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Carefree Installation Manual FREEDOM WM
052563-001r2 5
INSTALLATION USING AN AWNING RAIL
The awning may be mounted using an existing awning rail. Awning rails are not furnished with the awning.
1. Determine the optimum positioning of the awning.
When installed, the bottom of the awning case is 13.3cm [5 1/4”] from the centerline of the awning
rail. The rail must be mounted a minimum of 18cm [7”] above openings to avoid interference.
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.
2. Lightly spray the inside track of the awning rail with
a silicone lubricant.
3. Using a minimum of two people, lift the awning up
and tilt as shown.
4. Hook the mounting rail into the awning rail and roll
down.
5. Adjust the position of the awning horizontally as
required. It may be necessary to lift the awning so
that it will slide in the awning rail.
6. For the motorized awning only:
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 8mm 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.
Route the motor wires through the hole and seal with silicone sealant.
10. Rotate the awning down.
11. Open the awning to allow access to the back plate. 35 - 45cm [14"-18"].
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.
12. Drill three (3) 4.8mm [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.
13. In the awning case, ream out the
4.8mm [3/16”] holes to 8mm
[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.
14. Secure the awning using three (3) #14 x 1 1/2" lag screws.
WM006
Mounting Rail
Awning Rail
Figure 7. Mount Using Awning Rail.
Drill Area Drill Area Drill Area
Center Between Arms
Arm Mount Arm Mount
WM008
Figure 8. Securing the Awning Case.
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FREEDOM WM Installation Manual Carefree of Colorado
6 052563-001r2
BOTTOM BRACKET INSTALLATION
The 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:
Close the awning if open.
Measure out 1.2cm [.5"] from the edge of the lead rail.
At the marks made previously, measure down vertically and mark the location of the brackets. The ideal
location is 94-127 cm [37"-50"] below the bottom of the awning.
1.2cm [1/2”]
WM009
1.2cm [1/2”]
Pivot Pivot
94 - 127 cm [37”-50”]
Bottom Bracket
#10 x 3/4”
Flat Head Screws
4mm [5/32”] Pilot Hole
Edge of Lead RailEdge of Lead Rail
Figure 9. Wall Mounted Support Brackets.
2. Center the brackets on the location marks and using the bracket as a template, drill two (2) 4mm [5/32"] pilot
holes.
3. Attach the brackets with two (2) #10 x 3/4": flat head screws.
This completes the installation of the manual awning. For motorized awnings go to "Switch
Installation" on page 7.
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Carefree Installation Manual FREEDOM WM
052563-001r2 7
SWITCH INSTALLATION (MOTORIZED AWNINGS ONLY)
CAUTION
ALWAYS DISCONNECT THE BATTERY AND ELECTRICAL SOURCES BEFORE WORKING WITH THE ELECTRICAL WIRING.
1. Determine the location for the switch.
There is approximately 180cm [70"] of wire from the awning motor. If the distance to the switch exceeds
the furnished wire, the installer must furnish 18 awg wire and butt splice to the motor wires.
Location should provide the operator a view of the awning during operation.
The switch requires a 4.8cm x 7.3cm [1 7/8" x 2 7/8"] area on the mounting surface and a minimum
clearance depth of 3.2cm [1.25"] from the mounting surface.
1.88”
[4.8cm]
1.25”
[3.2cm]
2.88”
[7.3cm]
(ref)
1.88” [4.8cm]
(ref)
#6 x 3/4 Screw
(2 plcs)
Black
Red
Blue
White
3.2cm Minimum Clearance
From Mounting Face to
Rear of Switch Connector
- To Chassis Ground
- To BLUE Motor Wire
- To BROWN Motor Wire
- To +12VDC
Black
To Chassis Ground -
To BLUE Motor Wire -
To BROWN Motor Wire -
To +12VDC -
Blue
White
Red
DETAIL A
Right Side Orientation
DETAIL
B
Left Side Orientaion
WM010
Figure 10. Switch Installation.
2. Cut a rectangular hole 3.2cm x 4.8cm [1 1/4" x 1 7/8"] at the location of the switch.
3. Determine the switch orientation:
The wires of the connector extend from the side of the switch with 3 terminals on the back.
For wire routing on the right side of the switch as shown in Detail A, orient the switch with the 3
terminals on the right.
For wire routing on the left side of the switch as shown in Detail B, orient the switch with the 3
terminals on the left.
Push the switch into the faceplate until the tabs on the switch “click” into place behind the
faceplate. Ensure that the switch and faceplate are oriented so that the lettering is up and the
wires are oriented as desired.
Set switch aside.
4. Route the awning motor wires through the switch hole and attach to the switch connector:
Connector Wire Color Right Side Orientation Left Side Orientation
RED →+12VDC +12VDC
WHITE →BROWN BLUE
BLUE →BLUE BROWN
BLACK→Ground Ground
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FREEDOM WM Installation Manual Carefree of Colorado
8 052563-001r2
5. Run a 16 awg wire from the power distribution panel (auxiliary battery circuit) or equivalent. The
circuit should be protected by a 15-amp fuse.
6. Run a wire to system ground.
7. Route the two new wires through the hole. Butt splice the 12VDC wire to the RED connector wire.
Butt splice the ground wire to the BLACK connector wire.
8. Attach the connector to the switch.
9. Restore power and test the switch operation.
10. If the awning operates opposite to the switch plate markings:
Shut off power;
Reverse the blue and white connector wires;
Restore power and test.
11. Push the wires, connector and switch into the mounting hole and secure using two (2) #6 x 3/4" flat
head screws.
PITCH ADJUSTMENT
The Freedom WM provides minor pitch adjustment for aligning the lead rail with the case. This adjustment
is only for fine-tuning the installation. It is not intended as an operational pitch adjustment.
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 arm case knuckle.
2. Have a second person lift up on the lead rail to
relieve the pressure on the adjustment screw.
3. Using a 5mm allen wrench, turn the adjustment screw
clockwise to raise the lead rail; turn the adjustment screw
counterclockwise to lower the lead rail.
4. Repeat for the other side as necessary.
MANUAL OVERRIDE (MOTORIZED VERSIONS ONLY)
If power to the vehicle is not available, the awning can be safely retracted using the manual override
located on the idler (right) end of the case.
NOTE: This procedure cannot be used to extend the awning.
1. Remove the plug from the right endcap and save.
2. Insert a 3/8" socket drive extension and handle into the
square drive hole inside the endcap.
3. Turn the handle counterclockwise until the awning is
retracted.
4. Replace the plug.
WM013
Raise
Lower
Pitch Adjustment Screw
A
rm Case Knuckle
Figure 11. Pitch Adjustment.
Remove Plug
3/8” Socket Drive
Extension
WM012
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Carefree Installation Manual FREEDOM WM
052563-001r2 9
SETTING THE MOTOR LIMITS
The motor limit switches are preset at the factory for best operation of the awning. It may be necessary to
reset the switches. The “OUT” limit switch is used to stop the motor when the awning is fully extended. The
“IN” limit switch is used to stop the motor when the awning is fully retracted.
The limit switches are located inside the motor endcap.
“OUT”
Limit Switch
“IN”
Limit Switch
Increase
Decrease
Endcap Plug WM011
4mm Hex
Figure 12. Motor Limit Switches.
To access the switches, remove the motor endcap and plug.
Adjusting the OUT Limit Switch
1. Extend the awning out completely.
2. Confirm that the arms are fully extended. The motor should stop and the fabric should be tight. If the
motor continues to run, the fabric will sag; or, if the motor quits before the arms are extended, it will be
necessary to adjust the “OUT” limit switch.
3. Using a 4mm Allen wrench turn the “OUT” limit switch. CLOCKWISE increases time the motor runs
during extension, COUNTERCLOCKWISE reduces the time the motor runs.
NOTE: It is best to make the adjustments in increments of a single turn. 3 full turns of the
screw equals approximately 2” of fabric extension.
4. Extend and retract the awning several times to confirm that the adjustment is correct.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 as required until the awning extends correctly.
Adjusting the IN Limit Switch
1. Retract the awning in completely.
2. Confirm that the arms are fully retracted. The motor should stop when the awning is fully retracted. If
the motor quits before the arms are fully retracted, it will be necessary to adjust the “IN” limit switch.
3. Using a 4mm Allen wrench turn the “IN” limit switch. Clockwise increase time the motor runs during
retraction, counter clockwise reduces the time the motor runs.
NOTE: It is best to make the adjustments in increments of a single turn. 3 full turns of the
screw equals approximately 2” of fabric extension.
4. Extend and retract the awning several times to confirm that the adjustment is correct.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 as required until the awning retracts correctly.
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