Let’s Talk About Lippert Solera Manual Awning Cradle Support
RV awnings are a fantastic addition, providing much-needed shade and extending your living space to the outdoors. However, anyone who’s battled a flapping, vibrating awning during a long road trip knows the potential stress they can induce. The Lippert Solera Manual Awning Cradle Support aims to eliminate that anxiety by providing extra stability for your awning roller assembly, especially crucial for longer awnings. I was initially drawn to the Lippert Solera Manual Awning Cradle Support after a particularly harrowing cross-country drive where my 22-foot Solera awning threatened to shake itself apart.
The incessant rattling and vibration were not only annoying, but also concerning; I feared for the awning’s structural integrity. I hoped to find a solution that would secure the awning roller during travel and reduce the stress on the mounting hardware. Unboxing the cradle support, I was immediately impressed by its robust construction. The materials felt durable, promising a long service life, and the design seemed simple enough for an easy installation.
I considered other awning support options like adjustable poles and tension straps. However, the Lippert Solera Manual Awning Cradle Support‘s automatic engagement/release mechanism swayed my decision. It seemed like a more convenient and less cumbersome solution. My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. The cradle felt substantial, well-engineered, and offered a tangible sense of security for my awning.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lippert Solera Manual Awning Cradle Support to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test run with the Lippert Solera Manual Awning Cradle Support was on a weekend camping trip to the Oregon coast. The drive included stretches of windy highway and some rough gravel roads leading to the campground. The cradle support was tested under diverse driving conditions. Immediately, I noticed a significant reduction in awning movement and noise.
Previously, even on relatively smooth roads, I could hear the awning rattling and vibrating. The cradle support minimized these disturbances. There was no learning curve involved; the automatic engagement and release worked flawlessly as advertised. After the initial installation, the process of extending and retracting the awning was unchanged. The cradle support automatically accepted and released the roller assembly, making it truly a “set it and forget it” solution.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and over 5,000 miles of travel, the Lippert Solera Manual Awning Cradle Support continues to perform admirably. There are no visible signs of wear and tear despite exposure to rain, sun, and dust. The support remains securely mounted, and the automatic mechanism still functions smoothly. The cradle support required minimal maintenance.
I occasionally wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove road grime. It outperforms my expectations, delivering peace of mind and prolonging the life of my awning. My previous experience involved constant vigilance and occasional tightening of awning hardware; with the cradle support, those worries are largely gone.
Breaking Down the Features of Lippert Solera Manual Awning Cradle Support
Specifications
The Lippert Solera Manual Awning Cradle Support is specifically designed to work with both power and manual Solera RV awnings. It is designed to support the roller assembly when the awning is in the travel position. It automatically accepts and releases the roller assembly as it extends or retracts. It is required for awnings longer than 21 feet but can be used on any size awning for added reinforcement.
This added reinforcement offers peace of mind. The product comes with a one-year limited warranty. These specifications are vital because they address the core issue of awning stability during travel. The automatic engagement/release feature simplifies awning operation and ensures consistent support.
Performance & Functionality
The Lippert Solera Manual Awning Cradle Support excels at its primary function: stabilizing the awning roller assembly during travel. It significantly reduces vibration, noise, and stress on the awning hardware. It is simple to install and use, making it a practical addition to any RV equipped with a Solera awning. The cradle support functions precisely as intended, providing the necessary support without interfering with normal awning operation.
The only potential improvement would be a more robust weather-resistant coating to further extend its lifespan in harsh environments. It meets and exceeds my expectations. It provides a reliable and hassle-free solution for awning stabilization.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lippert Solera Manual Awning Cradle Support boasts a simple yet effective design. The materials used are durable and weather-resistant. The cradle feels robust without being overly bulky or heavy. Installation is straightforward, requiring basic tools and minimal technical expertise.
The design prioritizes functionality and ease of use, making it a user-friendly addition to any RV. The automatic engagement and release mechanism is a clever touch that eliminates the need for manual adjustments.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience and the robust construction, the Lippert Solera Manual Awning Cradle Support is expected to last for many years. The materials are resistant to rust and corrosion. Minimal maintenance is required; occasional cleaning is sufficient. The support can be easily replaced if damaged.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lippert Solera Manual Awning Cradle Support doesn’t require any additional accessories for basic functionality. No specific customization options are available beyond the standard mounting hardware. The product is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing Solera awning systems. While no specific accessories are required, it is crucial to ensure that the mounting hardware is appropriate for your RV’s wall construction.
Pros and Cons of Lippert Solera Manual Awning Cradle Support
Pros
- Significantly reduces awning vibration and noise during travel. The primary benefit is a quieter and more relaxed driving experience.
- Extends the lifespan of your awning by reducing stress on hardware. Preventing premature wear and tear on expensive awning components.
- Automatic engagement and release mechanism for easy use. Simple operation and no need for manual adjustments.
- Durable construction and weather-resistant materials. Ensuring long-lasting performance and reliability.
- Easy to install with basic tools. Making it accessible to most RV owners.
Cons
- May not be compatible with all awning brands; specifically designed for Solera awnings. This limits its use to a specific awning brand.
- Could benefit from a more robust weather-resistant coating for extreme climates. This improvement enhances durability in harsh conditions.
Who Should Buy Lippert Solera Manual Awning Cradle Support?
The Lippert Solera Manual Awning Cradle Support is perfect for RV owners with Solera awnings, especially those longer than 21 feet, who frequently travel long distances or on rough roads. It is also beneficial for anyone who wants to minimize awning noise and vibration and extend the lifespan of their awning. Those who are mechanically disinclined or own awnings from other manufacturers should skip this product.
Must-have accessories include a basic set of hand tools (drill, screwdriver, wrench) for installation and appropriate mounting hardware for your RV’s wall type.
Conclusion on Lippert Solera Manual Awning Cradle Support
The Lippert Solera Manual Awning Cradle Support is a well-designed, durable, and effective solution for stabilizing Solera RV awnings during travel. It provides peace of mind, reduces noise, and extends the life of your awning. At $83.99, the price is justified given the benefits and the potential cost of repairing or replacing a damaged awning.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this product to any RV owner with a Solera awning looking for a reliable and hassle-free way to protect their investment. Invest in the Lippert Solera Manual Awning Cradle Support today and experience a quieter, more secure journey!