Thule Omnistor wind out awning

Surfer replied on 29/12/2017 14:44

Posted on 29/12/2017 14:44

As it is now becoming an effort to erect the Magnum Porch awning we are considering the Thule Omnistar 5200 4. 5m for our Buccaneer Cruiser, but in order to avoid issues with wind we will probably also buy the Panorama "tent" bits so that it has sides.  

We can then leave articles inside plus we have three dogs so can contain them if necessary.   We like the idea that it is quick to wind out and can be held in place with 4 guy ropes for mild wind conditions if just using the shade part and not the sides.

In addition to wind, the concern is the weight on the caravan as the Omnistar is bonded to the roof of the caravan?  Also are there any detrimental effects if you wind back the awning while it is wet?  We have never investigated the wind out awnings as we been quite happy with our traditional Magnum Coal so any suggestions positive or negative would be appreciated.

Air awnings are totally out of the question as we cannot manage them.

JVB66 replied on 06/01/2018 21:24

Posted on 06/01/2018 20:56 by hitchglitch

As I mentioned earlier, I am not aware of any other Caravan manufacturers apart from Bailey who will warrant a Caravan when a wind-out canopy is fitted. In fact, it wouldn’t surprise me to learn that Bailey have retracted on this.

When we were considering buying another Caravan I talked to a Company who fitted Thule to caravans and they were a bit vague about how it might affect warranty. I am convinced that if you had a problem with the structure of the Caravan which could in any way be associated with a retrofit canopy, the Caravan manufacturer would wash their hands of any responsibility. This could include water ingress around the roof seal, rippling etc.

On a secondhand van out of warranty I don’t think that I would worry but on a new van it might be an issue.

Posted on 06/01/2018 21:24

Bailey have agreed that roof mounted wind out awnings are acceptable and will not affect the warranty,both DSB and I have Thule 6200 fitted by the fitting brackets being bonded to the roof ,and do not let water past as Thule use a water tight strip the length of the awning,

And as the structure of Bailey caravans can stand the weight of a large Volvo car parked on the roof then there will not be a problem with a 30kg wind out awning

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