Awning shock - broken? DIY fix?

[pikespeakviewer]

Hi all, I'm pretty sure that one of my Carefree Longitude awning shocks has bit the bullet.

https://youtu.be/9-r_a5ZT8aw

Our local RV shop is ordering in one for us, but it won't be fixed by our next camping trip and our spot is in full sun. We would really like to use the awning, but we aren't sure if we can in it's current condition. When fully extended, one of the awning arms doesn't go up as high as the other and b/c the shock isn't working, a gust of wind collapses that side of the awning.

Can we... use a piece of doweling to prop up the arm to the same height as the other "good" side?

[chuckster57]

Since the shock is going to be replaced, I would use a pair of small vise grips on the piston.

[pikespeakviewer]

Originally Posted by chuckster57

Since the shock is going to be replaced, I would use a pair of small vise grips on the piston.

That's a much better idea than risking damage to more of the awning.

Position it here?

[chuckster57]

Yup. Point it up in line with the arm so you won’t bump into it.

[pikespeakviewer]

Thanks @Chuckster57. The vise grips worked great and are a super easy "fix" until it goes into the shop in August.