Welcome to the fourth entry in September’s Mini Mod Contest. One Mini Mod will be published in every Email Alert in September. At the end of the month, we’ll hold a reader vote to determine September’s winner. Click here for information about the 2023 Mod Contest, including how to enter.
David Novak, Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin
No Drill Side Awning
2019 Ford F-350
2019 Travel Lite 960
I wanted a place to get out of the sun and a place to sit if it rains. I didn’t want to spend big money on an awning. I wanted something simple.
I installed an aluminum L-rail, using the bolts for the jack legs so there would be no drilling into the camper. I only drilled holes in the aluminum rail that is installed on the camper.
With the L-rail installed, I can clip on a tarp. I put a 1-inch wide foam insulation strip between the rail and the camper. I clip the tarp on the bottom side of the rail to divert rainwater using clevis pins. Then install a couple of retractable tent poles and I’m ready to go. It only takes a couple of minutes to set up at the campsite.
It works great. I can get out of the sun or rain easily.
Materials Used:
9 foot long aluminum ‘L’ stock, measuring 2 inches by 2 inches – picked up at local metal supply business – $50
6 foot by 8 foot waterproof canvas tarp from tarpsnow.com (SKU: FSPCGN), $46
3 retractable tent poles from Cabela’s – $30
It took me 1 to 2 hours to complete this modification and cost me $150. In my opinion, the skill level of this modification is medium.
Disclaimer: The modifications above are submitted by Truck Camper Magazine readers. It is your responsibility to make sure that any do-it-yourself modification project you undertake is safe, effective, and legal for your situation.
Enter Your Mods Now!
If you’d like to enter a modification you’ve done on your truck camper, click here. You can enter as many mods as you want, at any time. Good luck mod makers!
