Carefree Eclipse 2009 User manual

OWNER'S MANUAL
ECLIPSE
RV MODEL YEAR 2009
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction ........................................................................................................... 2
Single Switch Operation ....................................................................................... 3
Multiple Switch Operation .................................................................................... 3
Systems with Optional Auto-Retract ................................................................... 4
Description of Controls .................................................................................. 4
Operating the Controls .................................................................................. 5
Testing the Direct Response System ............................................................ 6
Using the Key FOB Remote Control.............................................................. 6
Key FOB Batteries............................................................................... 6
Programming the Remote Receiver .............................................................. 7
Adjusting the Pitch................................................................................................ 8
Rain Release Setting..................................................................................... 8
The Auto-Dump Feature................................................................................ 8
Emergency Operation ........................................................................................... 9
Awning Care ........................................................................................................ 10
Carefree Major Product Limited Warranty......................................................... 11
Special Note: This manual provides a basic description of the product and the standard
operating controls provided by Carefree of Colorado. Some Original Equipment
Manufacturers (OEM's) may alter or change the placement, style and/or functional
configuration of the switches. If your controls do not match the style or description
included, contact the coach manufacturer for an accurate description. OEM furnished
components are not covered by the Carefree warranty.

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INTRODUCTION
From it's beginning in the early 70's, Carefree of Colorado has emerged as the
premier manufacturer of quality awnings and accessories for Recreational
Vehicles (RVs). Our full line of products can provide the accessories that match
your life style; no matter what type of RV you own.
The Eclipse Patio Awning uses unique “scissor” style arms that do not require
vertical ground support. The arms provide easy to use pitch adjustment—simply
push together the pins on the arms, snap into the hole set desired, and the pitch
is set! The pitch can be left in any position and the Eclipse will roll up completely!
When the awning is rolled back out, it rolls out to the pitch setting previously set.
Features include:
•The awning rollbar and arms are made from light weight, no-rust aluminum;
•100% billow-proof, worm-gear drive motor eliminates the need for travel locks;
•Highest head clearance of any vertical arm awning;
•Automatic Self-Leveling Retraction from any pitch;
•Large selection of vinyl and Acrylic fabrics and fabric covers.
Consult your Carefree Dealer for available options and upgrades.
This manual describes the operation and care for your Eclipse Patio Awning.
Descriptions include: Single Switch Operation; Multiple Switch Operation that
includes a convenient outdoor patio switch; and, the optional auto-retract system
that closes the awning automatically in windy conditions.
Operational Notes:
Awning Motor: The awning motor is equipped with a thermal protection circuit to protect
the motor from overheating. Operating the awning repeatedly over a short time period
may cause the circuit to sense a overheat condition and shut off the motor. If this
occurs, wait approximately 15 minutes to allow the motor to cool then operate the
awning in normal fashion.
Ignition Lockout Sensors (Available with Direct Response Only): If the optional
Carefree EL ignition lockout is installed the system will disable the extend function while
the vehicle ignition key is in the ON position. Special order RTL ignition lockouts will
fully retract the awning and disable the extend function when the vehicle ignition key is
in the ON position. Functions will return to normal operation when the ignition key is
turned OFF.
RV manufacturers may install their own lockout design. Refer to the RV literature for
12V power used for accessories.
WARNINGS
AWNINGS ARE DESIGNED TO PROVIDE SHADE AND PROTECTION FROM THE SUN.THE
EFFECTS OF WIND AND RAIN ON AN AWNING ARE UNPREDICTABLE AND CAN CAUSE
SEVERE DAMAGE TO THE AWNING AND/OR THE VEHICLE.IF WIND OR EXTENDED
PERIODS OF RAIN ARE EXPECTED,ROLL UP THE AWNING AND SECURE.
KEEP ALL SOURCES OF HEAT AND FLAME AWAY FROM THE AWNING CANOPY.
FABRIC IS NOT FIRE-PROOF AND CAN BURN IF LEFT IN CONTACT WITH ANY FLAME OR
HEAT SOURCE.
CAUTION It is recommended that if leaving the RV unattended for a
length of time, retract the awning to avoid unexpected climate conditions.

ECLIPSE
3
SINGLE SWITCH OPERATION
For basic installations, a single
interior control switch is provided for
Extend and Retract motor control.
To Operate the Awning: Press and
hold the Patio Switch until the awning
is in the desired position then release
the switch.
MULTIPLE SWITCH OPERATION
The multiple switch configuration provides 3 switches for Extend and Retract
Motor control. Two interior switches, a Power ON/OFF and a Patio switch. A
second outside Patio switch is mounted into the bottom cover of the right arm.
To Operate the Awning:
•Press the Power Switch to the ON position.
•Press and hold a Patio Switch until the awning is in the desired position then
release the switch.
CAUTION
IT IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED THAT THE POWER SWITCH BE SET TO OFF WHENEVER
THE AWNING IS NOT BEING OPERATED AND DURING TRANSPORT.THIS ACTS AS A SAFETY
TO PREVENT THE AWNING FROM BEING ACCIDENTLY OPENED.
E0045
Carefree of Colorado
PATIO
RETRACT
EXTEND
ON
OFF
POWER
Power
ON
Power
OFF
Press to
Retract
Press to
Extend
Interior Switches
Press to
Extend
Press to
Retract
Exterior Switch
Carefree of Colorado
Carefree of Colorado
E00
44
RETRACT
EXTEND
Press to
Retract
Press to
Extend

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SYSTEMS WITH OPTIONAL AUTO-RETRACT
The Optional Auto-Retract System is an exciting enhancement to basic awning
operation. When activated, the system will retract the awning automatically in windy
conditions. Sensitivity is set at the control panel. Two systems are available for the
Eclipse Patio Awning:
Direct Response – The system uses a sensor in the motor head to detect awning
motion caused by windy conditions. The system operates by gauging the vertical
motion of the awning’s leading edge. When persistent motion exceeds the factory
preset threshold value for 2 seconds or longer, the system will automatically retract the
awning. The pushbutton controls allow the user to choose between 3 factory preset
sensitivity values (threshold values).
Gust detection is incorporated into the Direct Response software. When the motion
value is suddenly and sharply increased above a safe maximum value, then the 2
second persistence measure is overridden and the awning closes immediately.
CAUTION
THE CAREFREE DIRECT RESPONSE SYSTEM AND WINDSMART AUTO-RETRACT SYSTEM ARE
PREMIERE ELECTRONIC AUTO-RETRACT SYSTEMS THAT PROVIDES PROTECTION AGAINST
ADVERSE ELEMENTS;BUT,NO AUTO-RETRACT SYSTEM IS A GUARANTEE AGAINST SEVERE OR
DESTRUCTIVE WEATHER;THE EFFECTS OF WIND AND RAIN ON AN AWNING ARE UNPREDICTABLE
AND MAY CAUSE SEVERE DAMAGE TO THE AWNING AND/OR VEHICLE.IF WIND OR EXTENDED
PERIODS OF RAIN ARE EXPECTED,RETRACT THE AWNING.
DESCRIPTION OF CONTROLS
AUTO
RETRACT
ON
POWER
ON
Carefree of Colorado
PATIO MODE
RETRACT
EXTEND
OFF
HI
LOW
WIND SPEED
MED
E0043
OFF
Hi Low
WIND SPEED
Med Auto
Retract
ON
Power
ON
Press to
Retract
Press to
Extend Red Indicator Light
when system is ON

ECLIPSE
5
MODE SWITCH
OFF...........................The center position shuts the system down. The awning cannot
be extended or retracted in this mode. The auto-retract system is
also disabled.
CAUTION
IT IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED THAT THE POWER SWITCH BE SET TO OFF WHENEVER
THE AWNING IS NOT BEING OPERATED AND DURING TRANSPORT.THIS ACTS AS A SAFETY
TO PREVENT THE AWNING FROM BEING ACCIDENTLY OPENED.
POWER ON .............The bottom position activates the patio switch and provides
power to the awning.
AUTO-RETRACT ON...The top position activates the patio switch and the Auto-Retract
system and provides power to the awning.
When the switch is placed in the POWER ON or Auto-Retract ON position, the
switch will illuminate to indicate the system is active.
PATIO SWITCH
This is a two position momentary contact switch. This description also applies to
Eclipse models with an exterior switch or any additional patio switches that may
be installed.
EXTEND ..................Press and release the switch. The awning automatically
opens. To stop the awning before it is open, press and
release the extend switch a second time; or, switch the MODE
switch to the OFF position.
RETRACT ................Press and release the switch. The awning automatically
retracts until it is fully closed. To stop the awning before it is
closed, press and release the retract switch a second time;
or, switch the MODE switch to the OFF.
SENSITIVITY SWITCH
HI...........................Hi is the least sensitive and responds to winds approximately
equal to 12 mph.
MED ......................Medium responds to winds approximately equal to 9 mph.
LOW......................Low is the most sensitive and responds to winds
approximately equal to 6 mph.
NOTE: If the sensitivity switch is not installed, the system defaults to the
medium setting.
OPERATING THE CONTROLS
For Standard operation:
•Set the
MODE switch to POWER ON or AUTO-RETRACT ON.
•Press and release the Patio Switch to extend or retract the awning.
To activate the Auto-Retract:
•Set the MODE switch to AUTO-RETRACT ON and set the WIND SPEED
(sensitivity) switch to the desired level.

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TESTING THE DIRECT RESPONSE SYSTEM
It is important to test the Direct Response system periodically to ensure that the
system is working properly. Follow the simple test below.
1. Extend the awning completely.
2. Turn the mode switch to Auto-Retract ON. Set the sensitivity to the lowest setting.
3. Gently move the roller tube up and down in a vertical motion.
4. If the awning retracts, the system is working properly.
5. If the awning does not retract, contact an authorized Carefree dealer for repairs.
Operate the awning with the Patio switch until the system is repaired.
USING THE KEY FOB REMOTE CONTROL
A remote control Key FOB is available only with the auto-retract
system. The remote provides the advantage of allowing you
to operate the awning from any convenient location.
The remote has a maximum operating range of 50 feet. Actual
distance may vary depending on the specific installation and
location of the receiver in the vehicle.
To use: turn system power ON at the control panel.
NOTE: Power ON/OFF and the Auto-Retract system and
can only be operated at the control panel.
Extend Press and release. The awning will extend out to the full extension and stop
automatically.
Retract Press and release. The awning will retract and stop automatically when the
awning is fully retracted.
Stop Press and release. During extend and retract functions, the awning may be
stopped by pressing this button.
KEY FOB BATTERIES
The Key FOB w/ antenna uses a battery (Radio Shack p/n 23-279 or equivalent)
that should provide a long period of service. To access: Remove the small screw
from the back of the case and carefully snap off the back. Lift the old battery out
and insert the new battery.
Batteries are available through your local battery outlets.
Battery life is dependent on frequency of use, environmental conditions and
condition of remote.
Function
Buttons
Stop
DR010

ECLIPSE
7
PROGRAMMING THE REMOTE RECEIVER
When adding or replacing a remote control, it is necessary to program the
transmitter and receiver.
DR
0
2
0
TO EYE PORT on RP24 Program Mode
Press to Learn Transmitter
UP
Program
Button
Indicator
Light
Stop
RR
1. Power to the control box must be on.
2. Press and release the “Press to Learn Transmitter” button on the bottom of the
receiver box. The receiver is in program mode when the red light comes on.
3. Press and release the STOP button on the remote. The red light will go out
after the receiver learns the remote signal.
NOTE: Pressing the stop button will cause the blue up arrow button to
default as the close (retract) function.
If a function button is pressed to train the receiver, it will be programmed as
the retract button. Example: Pressing the top button will program the top
button for retract and the bottom button as extend.
OPERATIONAL NOTES:
•Transmitter and receiver operate on frequency 433 MHz.
•The receiver exits the program mode after ten seconds.
•If the light does not come on, the memory is full and must be cleared.
•To clear the memory: PRESS AND HOLD the transmitter learn button. While holding the
button, the indicator light should be OFF for the full 5 seconds then come on.
•If the light does not go out during programming, the receiver already knows the
transmitter's signal or the battery in the remote needs to be replaced.
•The system may be programmed for up to 5 remotes. Additional remotes may be
ordered separately.

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ADJUSTING THE PITCH
The Eclipse arms have 6 pitch
adjustment settings from minimum
pitch to maximum pitch. The awning
can be extended and retracted in any
of these positions without having to
reset the pitch between uses.
CAUTION
BE CAREFUL WHEN ADJUSTING THE PITCH AS THE AWNING MAY MOVE ABRUPTLY.
1. Extend the awning completely. It is
easier to adjust the pitch when the
awning is fully extended.
2. Hold on to the awning arm to keep
it steady while adjusting the pitch.
3. Press the pitch adjustment pins,
located on the long scissor arm.
There are two pins: one in the
outer channel (shown) and one in
the inner channel.
Tip: Applying LIGHT pressure on
the arm will decrease the force
required to press the pitch
adjustment pins.
4. Slide the outer scissor arm to
the desired set of holes—
towards the coach for a lower
pitch and away from the coach
for a higher pitch.
RAIN RELEASE SETTING
The effects of wind and rain on an awning are
unpredictable and can cause severe damage to the
awning and/or the vehicle. IF WIND OR EXTENDED PERIODS
OF RAIN ARE EXPECTED,ROLL UP THE AWNING AND SECURE.
If the awning is extended during rain, position one arm at
minimum pitch and the other arm at maximum pitch. This
provides slope to allow the water to run off.
Note: The awning can be retracted with the arms set
in the release setting. The pitch does not have to be
equalized before closing.
THE AUTO-DUMP FEATURE
When set at the MINIMUM (flat) pitch, the Eclipse awning will automatically dump
accumulated water. The feature works by having one arm automatically folding
partially closed to create a valley in the canopy. The valley allows the water to
run off one side to prevent pooling. When the rain has stopped and the water
has drained, the arm will extend back to normal.
This feature is disabled when accessories such as rafters or Add-A-Rooms are
installed.
E0017a
Maximum
Pitch
Minimum
Pitch
Pitch Adjustment Pins
(one on each side)
Support and Lift in this area
Lift up
when pin is
at front of hole
Pull down
when pin is at
back of hole
Wall
E0017
Pitch Adjustment Pin Tip
(refer to tip in step 3)
Min.
Max.
Maximum
Pitch
Minimum
Pitch
E0042

ECLIPSE
9
EMERGENCY OPERATION
If the original power source fails or is unavailable, the Eclipse has emergency
override terminals (12V). The terminals can be used with a 9V-18V power
source, such as a cordless drill battery or car battery.
WARNING
DO NOT CONNECT THE ECLIPSE TERMINALS TO A 110V POWER SOURCE!DOING SO WILL
PERMANENTLY DAMAGE THE AWNING!
To use the emergency terminals:
CAUTION
DO NOT USE THE EMERGENCY TERMINALS WITHOUT FOLLOWING THE DIRECTIONS BELOW.
THE ELECTRONIC CIRCUIT CREATES A DYNAMIC BRAKE FOR THE MOTOR BY SHORTING
AND GROUNDING THE MOTOR LEADS.STEPS 1&2REMOVE THE BRAKE TO ALLOW THE
EMERGENCY OVERRIDE TO WORK.
1. If there is an external plug, disconnect the plug, then go to step 3.
2. Awnings without an external plug:
2.1 Remove the front cover from the motor head. There are six (6) small
screws, do not remove the larger screw toward the center.
2.2 Disconnect the input cable wires from the terminals. DO NOT
disconnect the wires to the motor.
2.3 Leave the wires disconnected and reattach the front cover.
3. Attach the provided jumper leads to the terminals, located on the rear of the
motorized head.
4. Connect the other ends of the jumper leads to a 12V source. If the awning
does not begin to move, reverse the leads.
5. Maintain contact throughout the retraction process.
CAUTION
BE CAREFUL WHEN RETRACTING THE AWNING AS THE AWNING MAY MOVE ABRUPTLY.
Override
Terminals
E0047
Disconnect
Wires from
Arm Channel
Remove
Front Cover
Motor
Head

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AWNING CARE
Maintaining a Carefree Awning is easy. Just follow these basic steps:
•Always operate the awning according to the instructions.
•Periodically check that the fasteners are tight. Tighten if necessary.
•Keep the awning fabric and arms clean.
FABRIC CARE
CAUTION
DO NOT USE OIL BASED CLEANERS OR ANY CAUSTIC,GRANULATED,OR ABRASIVE TYPE
CLEANERS ON YOUR CAREFREE PRODUCT.
1. One of the best ways to keep the fabric looking good and to delay the need
for deep or vigorous cleanings is to hose fabrics off on a monthly basis with
clear water. This practice will help prevent dirt from becoming deeply
imbedded in the fabric. In most environments, a thorough cleaning will be
needed every two to three years.
2. When it’s time for a thorough cleaning, the fabric can be cleaned while still
on the awning frame.
•For Vinyl Fabric – Use a soft brush and warm water with soap.
•For Acrylic Fabric – Use a stiff brush and warm water with soap.
3. When cleaning the fabric, it is important to observe the following:
•Always use a natural soap, never detergent.
•Water should be cold to lukewarm, never more than 100°F.
•Air-dry only. Never apply heat to the fabric.
•Always allow the fabric to dry thoroughly before rolling up the awning.
MILDEW
Mildew is a fungus growth that looks like dirt. Vinyl coated polyester fabrics are
mildew resistant because of a chemical biocide in the vinyl coating. Under
ordinary conditions, mildew will not appear. However, in areas where high
temperature and humidity are common, mildew can be a problem and require the
material to be washed more frequently. Thoroughly rinse the fabric with clean
water and allow to air dry completely before rolling up the awning.
POOLING
When water collects on the top of the fabric, this is known as "pooling". This can occur
during inclement weather or if a running air conditioner discharges over the awning.
The water is dumped when the awning is retracted. It is recommended that if water
accumulates on the top; retract the awning in steps (8"-12") to dump the water. This will
help prevent the fabric from stretching or distorting.
ARM CARE
The best method of keeping the arms operating smoothly is to clean them. Dirt
and debris can cause the channels not to slide easily. Avoid introducing water
into the motorized and non-motorized housings.
Periodically wash out the channels with running water (i.e. a hose) to keep them clean.
If the arms still do not slide easily, lightly spray the pivot and contact points with a dry
silicone lubricant after the arms have been cleaned and dried thoroughly.
MOTOR MAINTENANCE
•Check all wiring and connections for wear. Repair when needed.

ECLIPSE
11
CAREFREE MAJOR PRODUCT LIMITED WARRANTY
Carefree of Colorado (hereafter referred to as Carefree) warrants to the first retail
Purchaser that the Carefree Product is free of defects in material and
workmanship within the terms and conditions as set forth in the warranty
statement available online at www.carefreeofcolorado.com. Carefree’s obligation
under this warranty is limited to the repair or replacement, at Carefree’s option, of
any defective component with new or factory refurbished components.
OWNER MUST RETAIN THE ORIGINAL PROOF OF PURCHASE AND/OR HAVE THE PRODUCT
WARRANTY REGISTRATION ON FILE AT CAREFREE FOR WARRANTY CLAIMS.
THIS WARRANTY IS NOT TRANSFERABLE.
For
- Warranty Duration;
- Warranty Coverage and Exclusions;
- Warranty Terms of Coverage; and,
- Warranty Claim Procedures
Refer to publication
052580-111 "Carefree Major Product Limited Warranty"
available online at www.carefreeofcolorado.com
Register your Carefree products online at www.carefreeofcolorado.com
Publications available on-line @ www.carefreeofcolorado.com:
052547-001 Eclipse Arms and Canopy After Market Installation Manual
052547-021 Eclipse Arms and Canopy OEM Installation Manual
052547-221 Eclipse Owner's Manual
052547-301 Eclipse Service Manual
052526-001 Direct Response Installation Manual
IMPORTANT NOTICE: It is strongly recommended that adjustments and repairs not
described in this book be performed by trained technicians at your Authorized
Carefree Dealer. Work performed by non-authorized persons or businesses may
void warranty.

052547-221 Printed in USA January, 2009
Carefree of Colorado 2145 W. 6
th
Avenue Broomfield, CO 80020
aScott Fetzer company www.carefreeofcolorado.com