How to Put on Replacement Canvas for a Tent Trailer

A tent trailer allows families or individuals to enjoy a camping trip and reconnect with nature. Tent trailers combine the features of tents and trailers, allowing air to filter through large screened windows and making room for a fridge and stove. Over time, with heavy usage, it may be necessary to replace the canvas top section of your trailer. Replacing the tent top is a fairly straightforward job you can complete in an afternoon. Have a friend or two on hand to help you remove the old canvas and position the new top.

Instructions

    • 1

      Order a replacement top to fit the make and model of your tent trailer. It is important to get the right replacement top so the installation process will go smoothly.

    • 2

      Erect the tent trailer into its open position. Enter the camper and remove the ceiling roof panels. Carefully remove the fixtures that secure the canvas top. Once you have removed the ceiling panels, depending on the model of tent trailer, you may need to undo or remove other fixtures that will release the tent top.

    • 3

      Remove the canvas top from its frame. Work from the top of the camper to the sides. Release any screws, ties or Velcro attaching the tent portion to the frame. Detach the canvas from the bottom trailer compartment by removing the metal trim bars along the top of the compartment. Release the canvas top.

    • 4

      Drape the new canvas top over the frame of the tent trailer. Attach the ceiling panels to secure the canvas in place and attach it to the frame the same way you did with the old top. The replacement top should include new hardware to secure it in place.

    • 5

      Attach the new top to the bottom compartment of the trailer by pulling the canvas tight and attaching the metal trim bars to hold the canvas in place.