Fiamma F45s Awning
Installation and Usage Instructions
Product Overview
The Fiamma F45s is a popular awning designed for recreational vehicles like caravans and motorhomes, providing shade and shelter.
Model Specifications
The F45s awning is available in various lengths and colors. The following table details the dimensions (A, B, C) and approximate weight for different models:
Model | Dimension A (cm) | Dimension B (cm) | Dimension C (cm) | Weight (Kg) |
---|---|---|---|---|
F45s 190 | 185 | 169 | 100 | 11.5 |
F45s 230 | 231 | 214 | 150 | 16.5 |
F45s 260 | 263 | 247 | 200 | 19.5 |
F45s 300 | 308 | 292 | 250 | 23.0 |
F45s 325 | 323 | 307 | 250 | 23.0 |
F45s 350 | 348 | 331 | 250 | 24.0 |
F45s 375 | 375 | 357 | 250 | 26.0 |
F45s 400 | 398 | 381 | 250 | 27.0 |
F45s 425 | 423 | 405 | 250 | 28.2 |
F45s 450 | 448 | 431 | 250 | 29.5 |
Available canopy colors include Polar White, Titanium, and Deep Black.
Package Contents and Components
The package typically includes:
- A: Awning unit (1x)
- B: Crank handle (1x)
- C: Brackets (1x, quantity may vary by model)
- D: Support legs (4x)
- E: Hooks for securing legs (2x)
- F: Fixing screws and bolts (various quantities)
- G: Additional brackets/adapters (2x)
Note: Specific part quantities and types may vary by model. For example, F45s 190/230 models may use different bracket configurations (L) compared to others (H, I).
Installation Instructions
General Fixing to Vehicle Wall
Awnings can be fixed using the supplied brackets or optional adapters. Always follow specific instructions for your model. Ensure the "Support" text on the awning case aligns with the bracket position.
Key Considerations:
- Alignment: Brackets must be perfectly aligned to prevent future issues. Use spacers if necessary.
- Positioning: Brackets are typically slightly lower than the awning; account for vehicle gutters or roof edges.
- Vehicle Wall Check: Before drilling, probe the vehicle wall to identify reinforced points. Consult your vehicle dealer if unsure. Ensure no internal obstacles (cables, pipes) are present.
- Drilling: Mark fixing points on the exterior wall and drill.
- Securing Brackets: Fix brackets, ensuring nuts are not overtightened. Use mastic around holes to prevent water ingress.
- Attaching Awning: Position the awning onto the fixed brackets and secure it. Brackets usually have two holes; only one screw is needed per bracket for the awning.
- Horizontal Installation: Ensure the awning is installed horizontally.
Bracket Alignment
Proper alignment of brackets is crucial for correct installation and to avoid problems. The diagrams illustrate correct (? OK!) and incorrect (? NO!) alignment. Misaligned brackets may require shimming with spacers to achieve proper alignment.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
The installation process involves several steps, typically including:
- Prepare the Vehicle Wall: Mark the drilling points on the vehicle's exterior wall.
- Drill Holes: Drill holes at the marked points (e.g., Ø 6.5 mm for some fixings).
- Attach Brackets: Secure the brackets to the vehicle wall using the provided screws and bolts (e.g., M6x50, M6, M5x12).
- Position Awning: Carefully place the awning unit onto the installed brackets.
- Secure Awning: Fasten the awning to the brackets using the provided screws.
- Extend Support Legs: For models with support legs, extend them to the desired height. Ensure the foot of the leg is correctly positioned within its housing to prevent issues during retraction (refer to diagram 2).
- Secure Legs to Ground: Use the provided hooks or optional Tie-Down accessories to secure the support legs to the ground, especially in windy conditions.
- Optional Wall Fixing: For additional stability or specific mounting needs, wall brackets can be used on reinforced points.
Specific dimensions for bracket placement vary by awning model (e.g., F45s 190/230, F45s 260/300/325/ZIP 300, F45s 350/375/400/425/ZIP 350, F45s 450). Refer to the diagrams for precise measurements (e.g., 52-92 mm, 80 mm, 120 mm, 150-300 mm, 30-240 mm).
Optional Fixings
For enhanced stability, optional fixings like SikaFlex can be used for wall mounting.
Usage and Safety Precautions
Operating the Awning
Opening: Grasp the leg near its hinge-joint, pull it towards you, unhook, and lower it. Extend the awning to the desired length and adjust the support legs to the chosen height.
Closing: Ensure the awning is fully closed. A damaged fabric may prevent proper retraction. Never use the awning if the fabric is damaged.
Weather Safety
The awning is designed primarily for sun protection. It is crucial to close the awning in case of strong wind, heavy rain, or snow to prevent damage.
- Wind: To prevent the awning from being lifted by sudden gusts of wind, secure the support legs to the ground using the provided hooks or optional Tie-Down accessories.
- Rain/Snow: In case of rain or snow, lower one side of the awning to allow water to drain away. Use the tension rafter for added support and to prevent water pooling.
- Temperature: Avoid using or storing the awning at temperatures below 0°C.
Status Indicators
An indicator (often a red flag) is visible when the awning is open. When the awning is completely closed, this indicator is no longer visible.
Maintenance and Care
Regularly check the fixing condition of the brackets, especially after initial travel and before/after long trips, ensuring they have not moved and are properly tightened.
Cleaning:
- Ensure the awning is completely dry and clean before closing it. Residual moisture can cause stains. If closing a damp awning is unavoidable, open it again within 12 hours to dry.
- Most dirt is superficial and can be removed with water and a clean cloth or soft brush.
- For stubborn dirt, use a neutral detergent (like Marseille soap) with water.
- Never use aggressive chemicals or high-pressure cleaning machines.
- Do not wash the outer casing with aggressive products or rough cloths, as this may alter the surface finish or materials.
Available Accessories
Fiamma offers various accessories to enhance the functionality of the F45s awning, including:
- Motor Kit F45s Compact
- Tie Down / Tie Down S
- Rain Guard
- Awning Arms LED / Kit Awning LED
- Crank Handle Telescopic
- Kit Awning Pegs
- Spoiler S
- Kit Awning Hangers
- Blocker Pro / Blocker
- Sun View XL / Shade Sun View
- Sun View Side / Side W Pro / Side W Pro XXL / Side W Pro Shade
- Privacy Room options
- Kit Repair Plus
Warranty Information
In case of defects related to materials and manufacturing, the customer is entitled to warranty service in accordance with local laws and regulations of the country where the product was purchased.
Support and Contact
For any problems or issues, please contact your local dealer. Provide the data from the product's nameplate. Consult the Fiamma website (fiamma.com) for spare parts drawings and further information.
Important Note: If the installed awning extends more than 100 mm beyond the vehicle's contour, its presence must be recorded in the vehicle's registration documents.