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Zip Dee Awning Flex Key replacement

Yahoo Message Number: 117425
My 20' patio awning works perfectly and the "Sunbrella" fabric is still in good shape. However, the stitching on the "Flex Key" has deteriorated and is pulling apart. The flex key is the 1" piece of fabric that joins the metal awning case to the awning rail on the coach. Zip Dee will sell me the flex key by the foot. However they will not advise me about the best way to install it.
Has anyone replaced this flex key in the existing tracks?
Do I need to remove the entire awning assembly to do this job? Is it feasible to lube both aluminum channels and then slowly removing the existing flex key in while carefully "chasing" it with the new replacement key behind.... with the awning still mounted to the coach?
I am trying to avoid calling an awning tech for something that seems simple.
I am hoping someone can verify my theory. Trying to avoid a possible headache.
Daron Hairabedian, 98 Allure 40' 30226

Re: Zip Dee Awning Flex Key replacement

Reply #1 –
Yahoo Message Number: 117428
Hi Daron, we purchased a used CC recently and that was ONE of the repairs we have tackled. Zip Dee recommended the 1st and 2nd keys be replaced at the same time and they were right. It was more difficult for us than the video we watched but we did it! There is crimps all along the channels to keep it from sliding so you have to open them up before you can slide the old one out. It took three of us to accomplish the job so don't think you can do it by yourself. Ours was the original key so it was in there pretty good and I found it was easier to slice the old one which relieved the weight of the awning to get old out and the first one in. Second one went in smooth. Tools include: vise grips, pliers, screw driver and ladders. Good luck.
PS if I had a couple grand I think I would've replaced it with the remote controlled one!!!

1996 Allure 36' w/ dining slide!
2018 Chev Colorado

Re: Zip Dee Awning Flex Key replacement

Reply #2 –
Yahoo Message Number: 117432

Hi Gregnbev, Thanks for your rapid response. Congrats on finding your vintage 36' CC gem.
Where did you find the video. All videos that I found on You Tube described replacing the entire fabric on an awning. Anyway, I appreciate your sage advice and tips. The Zip Dee rep is right. I may as well replace both keys while I am doing the job as the second one will probably bite the dust soon. BTW, did you need to apply a silicone type of spray lube to help reduce the friction before you started to pull the old key out?
I am picturing a procedure of opening the awning out about a foot, locking the levers, and supporting it with poles to the ground. The pole ends will be cut with a horseshoe shaped notch to support the awning tube. I plan to use some duct tape at the top and sand bags at the bottom to keep the poles from shifting. I plan to insert the new key by pulling it in at the same time by "chasing" the old one as it is being removed. Of course, this would be done one key at a time.
Since you have actually experienced this job, do you think my idea will work? Am I overthinking this???
PS. I'm like you.....I too wish I could afford the power upgrade.
Daron Hairabedian,1998 Allure, 40' # 30226, Great Room, Galley slide

Re: Zip Dee Awning Flex Key replacement

Reply #3 –
Yahoo Message Number: 117434
Daron,

We just replaced our patio awning fabric and flex keys for the second time. I think dealing with the crimps will be very difficult without getting them down to ground level. If you lock the Z-lock mechanisms so there's no spring tension and support the roller you may be able to slide out both flex keys and the adjoining metal slats as a unit. There are only a couple screws at the end of the slats keeping them in place and a couple more that keep the flex key from sliding in the the c-channel at the roof.

One of our flex keys (flex hinge?) came in two widths -- make sure Zip Dee sends you the right one.
--

Tom Harsch
2002 Allure 36'

Re: Zip Dee Awning Flex Key replacement

Reply #4 –
Yahoo Message Number: 117436
Hey Daron, I think you got a plan...I didn't use silicon because I wasn't sure if it would be compatible with the fabric. All I can say is, that thing is heavy! I actually had to tie it to the RV when I decided to slice the old key. I like Tom's suggestion that maybe it would be better to remove from the RV and work on the ground.
Have fun...

Re: Zip Dee Awning Flex Key replacement

Reply #5 –
Yahoo Message Number: 117460

Tom Harsch & Gregandbev, Thanks for your thoughtful input. I will be ordering the keys from Zip Dee this week. I plan to do the replacement installation as soon as I can recruit a couple of helpers. I will report results of my experiences when completed.
Daron Hairabedian,98 Allure 30226