ARB Awning

[donjuanmiguel]

In preparation for my first back country camping trip, I installed ARB's 2500 awning. Install calls for use of cross bars or cargo basket for attachment points. I don't have a cargo basket and using after market cross bars creates a lot of drag. It's a 10hr trip to Big Bend from here so addtitional drag is a concern. I opted to use the factory rails instead.

First pic shows the 4 L-braces and 1-3/4" u-bolts. Awning recommends 3 mounting points, I added a 4th for added security. Next 2 pics just show different angles.

The setup feels secure but I won't know for sure until it's road tested.

 

[chimyz]

Nice! That thing will definitely come in handy. Any pics of it open?

 

[donjuanmiguel]

Not yet, maybe tomorrow.

 

[donjuanmiguel]

Funny, I thought I had posted some pics of the awning...Oh well, here is one more showing the entire camp setup.

 

[uriedog]

thats pretty sweet. I like it.

 

[znaqvi786]

so how did the u-bolts hold up to highway driving?

 

[donjuanmiguel]

so how did the u-bolts hold up to highway driving?

They held up great! We traveled some rough roads - washouts, rocks, washboards, etc. - with hours of vibration and they never budged.

 

[fasteddie2015]

I've just started looking for awnings that use the stock rails or crossbars. Looks like you found a solution. Question: were the brackets and ubolts ARB items or did you fabricate something. Any details are appreciated.

My son is going to be in Freeport for 5 months and we really like the beach there. Looking for quick deployment for visiting there every few weeks.