Awning Knob Tool

[rames14]

I have read posts by people about the trouble tightening their awning knobs. I saw a great post by someone that showed the tool they made out of PVC pipe, but there were no instructions and it only showed the end. So, I tried to figure out how to do it with a limited machine shop. I have plenty of tools, but a horizontal mill would be great. As a former tool and die maker, it is painful not to have access to all the fun machines.

So, if you like this tool, here is what you need:
- A small drill press
- a Forstner bit the radius of the knob (I think I used a 3/4”)
- PVC pipe a little larger than your awning knob - 2’ long
- a coupling if you have a short drill press and a 1 1/4” long piece of PVC same as above
- a piece of 7/8” diameter PVC for a t-handle
- a piece of rope

I traced the knob on the 1 1/4” long piece of PVC. Then I set the part in my drill vise and eyeballed the radius. I set a stop for the depth and then drilled out the radius. Rotate and repeat. Mine had five bumps on the knob. I then deburred and glued this into the coupling. I glued the coupling on the 2’ long PVC. Then, I drilled a cross hole for my t-handle and two holes for a rope so I could store the t-handle in the long pvc piece. Here are photos. I am sure there are some very creative people that will improve on this. Enjoy.

[432bartman]

Ron, thank you so much for posting this.......I am going to do this ASAP before our next trip. We don't full time, so I really don't enjoy bringing a ladder...lol

[M&M]

Thanks for the post. This is on my to-do list before my next trip.

[M&M]

Made my tool this weekend. Was able to use a small sanding drum in a drill to carve out the knob slots. Works great. I also got a aluminum rod from HD and bent it to be able to pull the awning to angle for tightening. No ladder required now. Thanks for the idea.

[rames14]

Looks good. Need an aluminum rod now.

[Route66Rambler]

Made this out of PVC.

[rames14]

That would be easier to make, fewer tools. Good job.

[rames14]

M&M, what was the diameter and length of the aluminum rod you used?

[M&M]

Everbilt 1/4 in. x 36 in. Aluminum Round Rod from HD -887480016475

I’m 6’ tall, and it’s ok for me to reach hitch end awning support. 4’ length might have been better.

[rames14]

Thanks, might be in HD today?

[Scootsk]

That was me! I’m glad people are using the idea. It’s a must for anyone with these fifth wheels. The awning knobs are way too high.

[RipNC]

Originally Posted by Route66Rambler

Made this out of PVC.

Rt66Rambler,
What size PVC did you use?

[rames14]

I just took my awning knob to the store and made sure the end covered the knob. I can’t remember if it was 1.5” or 2”.

[Route66Rambler]

I believe it is inch and a half PVC.

Originally Posted by RipNC

Rt66Rambler,
What size PVC did you use?

[RipNC]

Thank you!