Awning leg body mounts: Yes or no?

[SteveInLA]

Sportsmobile West recently installed a Fiamma awning on my van and I am now contemplating whether to install the little brackets that allow the awning legs to be attached to the van body. I spend a fair amount of time in beach parking lots and seem to remember that they don't allow awnings if the legs touch the ground. Other than not being able to open the passenger side door and the risks involved in putting more holes into the sheet metal, can anyone offer reasons not to install these?

Thanks,
Steve in L.A.

[Miykl]

Mine came with them installed. I'm wonderring if there's any reinforcement inside the door? Or if it's needed? One reason to not do it would be the sheet metal denting or contorting due to repeated flexing. (?)

[sdwindansea]

Steve, if they are the newer model, I wouldn't recommend it. The newer model has a larger metal plate that slides up/down to lock the feet in place. It worked great when new. However, over time it began to seize and is now broken (salt air, dirt and grime are not its friends). Luckily I have a pair of the older model, which has a metal bar that slides up/down and seems to be better suited to my use.

[BroncoHauler]

This should give you lots to think about.

viewtopic.php?f=24&t=7724&hilit=mike+awning


Herb

[EDIT: I also recall someone making their own mini receiver style mounts underneath their SMB, one in front and one in back. With a short section of stock inserted into each receiver, they then are able to mount the awning legs to the awning foot which was mounted on the piece of metal stock. Can't remember who that was. Mike, Daveb, Gregg,...]

[jwintersteller]

I planning on doing what Greggd did. Here are some pics from his gallery.





This looks like a lot more work then just screwing it into the body but it looks like it will work a lot better.

There are more pics to look at on his gallery, check it out. http://sportsmobileforum.com/gallery/al ... &start=168

Cheers,
John

[BroncoHauler]

That's what I was trying to remember John. Agree, that it's more work, but it is a very elegant solution IMO.


Herb

[SteveInLA]

Originally Posted by jwintersteller

I planning on doing what Greggd did.

That reminds me of the tiki torch holders I had for my Westfalia:


I would be interested in something like Greggd's awning solution as well.

Steve in L.A.

[86Scotty]

Looks like you could use that setup as a multi-mount. Awning, Tikis, lantern hanger, small one post table, dog leash tie, grill stand, whatever you needed for that particular campsite.