Did you know an ARB awning doesn't necessarily require a roof rack? Factory cross bars, roof rails and even roof racks make the ARB awning much more universal than you might think. This article covers how to install an ARB Awning to a conventional factory roof rail system.
SELECT AN AWNING BRACKET
ARB offers a quick release and fixed mounting solution for both the ARB BASE Rack and Classic Roof Racks along with a universal bracket for non-ARB Racks.
For vehicles fitted with an ARB roof rack, there's a wide range of awning mounting brackets to choose from: the universal bracket, an ARB Roof Rack bracket, a BASE Rack bracket or a Quick Release bracket.
Reminder: Make sure any awning overhang does not exceed 27 inches.
| For non-ARB racks or cross-bars, the ARB universal bracket (813204) will utilize existing mounting channels for this application. The added gussets on this bracket increase the strength integrity that is recommended for the ARB 2500mm awnings. |
FAQ: Why don’t ARB Awnings come with brackets?
ARB does not include brackets with the awnings because every fitment may require a different style of bracket. To find out what works best for your vehicle check out the ARB Awning Bracket Guide.
INSTALLATION
Determine how you will be attaching the awning bracket to your roof rack. For this installation, we will utilize the t-slot that is built into these roof rails.
Measure the width between the mounting locations and ensure there will be no more than 27 inches of overhang per side by using the following formula.
(Distance between brackets – length of awning) / 2
Ensure the awning will clear the doors, tailgate, and hood. In some case, the front of the awning may need to be positioned further forward.
The bracket can be oriented either up or down as shown. Again, be sure to account for clearance when opening the door, tailgate, and hood.
If you’re using ARB’s universal mounting brackets, you will need to source the hardware that will attach the bracket to your roof rack. For this configuration we sourced T-Bolts. Bolt the bracket to the rail.
MOUNTING HARDWARE
Locate the tan bag provided with the awning, it contains stakes, guy ropes, and mounting hardware. The mounting hardware consists of six T-head bolts and nylon nuts. M6 X 20 hex head bolts can be used as an alternative.
The back of the awning is where the mounting track lies. The ARB PVC bag awnings contain bolt openings on each side and the ARB Aluminum awning has an opening on the right side.
Measure the distance between each mounting location. Using this measurement, slide the bolts through the track and fit them to the correct position. Again, there should be no more than 27 inches of overhang per side.
Position the bolts so they line up with the bracket. When using the ARB Universal Bracket, the two holes on the same level are 2 inches apart, leaving the remaining hole in the direct center.
MOUNTING
With help from a friend, lift the awning onto the roof rack. Bolt it down using the provided nylon nuts. Before tightening – open the doors, tailgate, and hood to ensure that they will not make contact.
Ensure the awning mounts and nuts are tightened after 1000 miles after fitting and periodically thereafter.
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