How to Replace a Salem Travel Trailer Awning

Salem travel trailers are made by Forest River and sold under the Salem name. These trailers are available in small campers up to fifth-wheel style campers. Almost all of the Salem travel trailers are equipped with an awning going over much of the door side of the trailer. These awnings allow you to set up chairs and tables outside the camper and enjoy rain and sun protection. Replacing the awnings is a matter of removing the old one and setting the new one into the Salem awning housings.

Things You'll Need

  • Scraper and utility knife
  • Step stool
  • Soap
  • Water
  • Sponge
  • Power drill with bits
  • Silicone caulk and caulk gun
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Instructions

    • 1

      Scrape the caulking around the awing housing off with a scraper. Go easy and make sure not to rip or damage the wall of the Salem. Use a step stool to get to the awning fixtures if necessary.

    • 2

      Unscrew the retaining bolts on the awning fixtures. These are found on both ends of the awning and go into the wall of the camper. Leave the awning brackets on, but unscrew the bolts holding the awning to the brackets.

    • 3

      Remove the old awning (handing it down to a friend is a safe way of lowering it from the camper). Wash the area behind the awning on the camper walls. Use soap and water with a sponge to clean off the surface.

    • 4

      Insert the new awning into the awning brackets on the Salem camper. Screw in the retaining bolts and add silicone caulk over the screws to secure further and provide a watertight seal.

    • 5

      Pull out and down on the awning to open and test the hold on the Salem wall. Pull all the way out and then push the awning poles up and under the outer corner grommets.

    • 6

      Pull down and then release, much as with blinds, to close the awning.