Using a Thule Omnistor
18 replies
replied on 14/02/2021 13:00
commeyras replied on 14/02/2021 14:42
Posted on 14/02/2021 14:42
We too have the Fiamma Caravanstore and would echo AD's comments. If your caravan has the opening for an awning to be threaded into the rail about 2/3rds up the side then you need not worry yourself about making one with a blunt object. Sure most caravans have this entry point. I would add that you should make sure that you get some lugs to stop the 'awning' sliding in the rail when towing, they are very cheap and widely available. When measuring, the widest awning you can get is the length of the straight part of your awning rail. Very happy with mine, have used it for 7 yrs now and it is begining to show its age. A couple of years ago a small tear appeared on one side where it is sewn into the sleeve; a quick visit to a local sail maker was all that was needed to get a good and cheap repair. This incident shows that they are not very wind tolerant and you should roll them back into their bag if the wind gets too strong! They are very easy to put up and roll away, I have even used ours for en route lunch stops in hot climes (ah memories!).
Metheven replied on 14/02/2021 19:31
NES1 replied on 15/02/2021 12:04
Posted on 15/02/2021 12:04
Thank you for the information you have all provided.
The awning bag will unfortunately sit on the Awning light and clearly that is something to avoid. I am considering unscrewing the locking blocks and sliding the bag forward when travelling away from the light and then moving it back when on pitch if that makes any sense. I have looked at the awning light and don’t feel it can be moved.
Any other advice would be appreciated when using this type of awning, for instance in regard to the performance in the wind.
The advice is much appreciated.
Nick
Metheven replied on 15/02/2021 13:01
commeyras replied on 15/02/2021 14:20
Posted on 15/02/2021 14:20
My awning bag sits on the awning light and I have not had a problem. Perhaps I have been lucky!
I have some storm guys which I use to make the awning more secure and I also put pegs in the bottom of the poles to stop them lifting - the awning can act like a wing and want to lift off in strong winds. It is only in very strong winds, say force 6 + when you need to roll it back into it's bag and as this only takes a few minutes (5 at the most) it is not a problem. I do not have sides for my Fiamma, I am told that if you fit sides the awning is more secure. Don't get over concerned about this problem just be aware if the forecast is for strong winds.
replied on 15/02/2021 14:31
SteveL replied on 15/02/2021 14:58
Posted on 15/02/2021 14:58
Personally I would have put ours away well before it reached force 6+. Force 6 is 25 mph and could result in serious damage.
In general we found it would tolerate a constant wind fairly well, however gusts were problematic. I operated on the principle if in doubt put it away. It’s a right pain wrestling with it at 3am when you have been awakened by the flapping noise.
NES1
Caravanner from Clwyd