The ARB Awning 2000mm x 2500mm (PN#814205/814401) is a versatile, quick-to-deploy camping awning designed to provide shelter and enhance the outdoor experience. It is compatible with most roof rack and roof bar systems, horse floats, camper trailers, and various other applications. An optional light upgrade kit (PN#814305) is also available to further enhance its utility.
Function Description:
The primary function of the ARB Awning is to provide shade and shelter from the elements, making camping and outdoor activities more comfortable. It offers a quick and easy setup, allowing users to enjoy their outdoor space without extensive preparation. The optional light upgrade kit integrates an LED strip light into the awning, providing illumination for nighttime use.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Awning Dimensions: 2000mm x 2500mm
- Awning Material: 100% Polyester with a laminated PVC lining, making it fully waterproof and exceptionally resistant to fungal attack.
- Mounting Hardware: Supplied with 6x20mm stainless steel bolts and nylock nuts for direct mounting to a roof rack. Optional stainless steel awning L brackets are required for mounting to roof bars or in conjunction with an ARB Touring Rooftop tent.
- Light Upgrade Kit (PN#814305):
- Strip Light: 1.5m Aluminium profile LED strip.
- Power Source: 12V Cigarette Plug.
- Control: Dimming Switch with buttons for brightness control (+/-), colour control (White/Amber/Dual*), and power On/Standby.
- Waterproof: The light and dimmer switch are waterproof and can handle general rain.
- Dual Colour Mode Note: Running in dual colour mode doubles power consumption; single colour mode is recommended to conserve power.
Usage Features:
Mounting:
- To Roof Bars: Requires L brackets (sold separately). Position the awning on the brackets, considering door clearance. Insert supplied 6mm bolts into the mounting extrusion on the rear of the awning and secure with 6mm nylock nuts.
- To Roof Racks: Position the awning on the roof rack, considering door clearance. Mark and drill the roof rack to accept the bolts. Insert supplied 6mm bolts into the mounting extrusion on the rear of the awning and secure with 6mm nylock nuts.
- Mounting Points: Should be attached at a minimum of two points, preferably three. The unsecured length at each end should not exceed 700mm. No less than four (6x20mm) nuts and bolts should be used; using all six supplied is preferable.
- Mounting Height: Must be mounted at a suitable height to allow vehicle doors to open without snagging the bottom of the awning.
- Bolt Positioning: The mounting extrusion at the back of the awning holds the head of the 6x20mm bolts captive, allowing them to be positioned anywhere along the length of the awning to align with mounting points.
Awning Setup Instructions:
- Unclip bungee straps to release the lid of the awning container. The lid will spring open.
- Release the awning rafter arms from Velcro dots and swing them slightly more than 90° away from the vehicle.
- Allow the awning to unroll to its full length.
- Release the legs from inside the front beam. Slide the inner leg tube to the desired height and engage the twist lock by turning the bottom half of the leg.
- Hold the front beam with one hand, extend the rafter arm, and place the arm pin into the corresponding hole in the front beam. Twist the arm to engage the twist lock.
- Secure the fabric to the rafter arms using the Velcro tabs.
- Peg the legs to the ground using the rope loops in the feet and use guy ropes for additional security in windy conditions.
- Pack up is the reverse of the setup procedure.
Awning Usage Notes:
- Rain: In the event of rain, ensure the awning is set at an appropriate angle to allow rainwater to run off and prevent accumulation on top.
- Wind: In windy conditions, it is essential to secure the awning to the ground to prevent damage to both the awning and the vehicle.
Light Installation and Operation (Optional Light Upgrade Kit):
- Set up the awning, ensuring guide ropes are used in windy conditions.
- Unpack the ARB awning light kit and check contents (strip light, cables, dimming switch, 12V cigarette plug, carry bag).
- Separate the LED strip from other components.
- Locate the opening on the end of the light sleeve on the awning and insert the non-cable end of the strip light. In humid or hot conditions, minor resistance may occur; gentle continuous pressure or a small amount of talcum powder can assist.
- Once the cable end of the strip light reaches the end of the sleeve, use a long (at least 60cm) hard plastic or wooden dowel (with no sharp edges) to poke the remaining strip light into the awning, centring it. Ensure the cable connector remains outside the tube insert for easy connection.
- Centre the light on the awning, ensuring the cable is accessible.
- When rolling up the awning, the cable should protrude from the end, not roll up inside.
- The awning light can be left in the awning permanently and does not need to be removed between uses.
Light Usage Instructions:
- Locate all cables and assemble them, connecting the 12V cigarette plug to the dimmer switch.
- Ensure all cables are firmly connected and check that the light powers up.
- The light and dimmer switch are waterproof for general rain, but in heavy rain, it is recommended to keep the dimmer switch out of direct water contact. Always drop one leg of the awning to prevent water pooling.
- To pack up, turn off the light, disconnect the 12V cigarette plug, and then disconnect the cable from the light end. All cables can be stored in the separate nylon carry bag. The light can remain rolled up in the awning, but ensure the connector does not get rolled up where it could be squashed or rub.
Maintenance Features:
Cautions:
- Security: Always secure the awning with pegs and guy ropes to prevent wind from lifting and causing damage.
- Storage: Do not store the awning wet for extended periods. While the material is resistant to fungal attack, mildew can form if stored wet. It can be stored wet for limited periods but should be opened and allowed to dry as soon as possible.
- Inspections: Regularly check that all nuts and bolts attaching the awning to the vehicle are tight and in good repair.
Care for your Awning:
- Use a soft brush to remove leaf litter and other debris to prevent staining.
- If necessary, wash the awning material with a sponge and mild soapy water.
- After washing, rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow to dry completely before extended storage.
Warranty:
- Duration: 2 years from the date of purchase.
- Coverage: Goods come with guarantees that cannot be excluded under Australian Consumer Law, including replacement or refund for major failure and compensation for foreseeable loss/damage. Goods are also entitled to repair or replacement if they fail to be of acceptable quality and the failure is not a major one.
- Claiming Warranty: Take the product to any ARB store or stockist with your receipt or other proof of purchase.