If you’re looking to maximize convenience when setting up a motorhome awning, a drive-away kit is essential. This article highlights five drive-away kits that fit common rail systems and offer quick detachment or extension options. The selections target different buyer needs, from universal-fit kits for frequent travelers to replacement parts for maintaining Solera-style awnings. The table below summarizes the top picks and who they’re best for.
| Product | Best For | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|
| Etomvoop Awning Drive-Away Kit – Three Sides 6mm to 6mm & 4mm Kador | Campervan owners needing universal three-side compatibility | Universal 6mm/4mm kador beading on the vehicle side for wide rail compatibility; quick detachment with multiple sides for freestanding usage. |
| Etomvoop Drive Away Awning Fitting Kit | 6mm – 6mm | 3m | Frequent travelers who want a long, modular setup | Three meters of 50cm channel sections add up to 300cm total; supports many awnings with 3–6mm beading. |
| Drive Away Awning Fixing Kit | ‘8’ Channel | 3 Metre Rail Piping | Those who want a simple, reliable drive-away connection | 8mm channel and PVC core keder provide sturdy attachment; easy to slide into rails for rapid drive-away. |
| Drive Away Campervan Awning Fixing Kit | ‘8’ Channel | 6 & 4 mm Beading | Users with mixed beading sizes seeking versatility | 6mm and 4mm beading compatibility; simple installation steps and durable PVC construction. |
| Lippert Components- Solera Manual Crank Style Awning Drive Head Assembly | Replacement part for Solera crank-style awnings | Crank-style drive head compatibility; a straightforward replacement option to restore function. |
The following sections present each product with practical, buyer-focused details. Each entry explains who benefits most, why the product was chosen, and any notable limitations.
Etomvoop Awning Drive-Away Kit – Three Sides
Best for: Campers who want a universal drive-away solution that works with multiple rail sizes. This kit includes three sides of drive-away beading (6mm and 4mm) to fit common vehicle rails and C-channels. It’s designed for quick detaching and reconnecting, allowing a camper to drive away and leave the awning freestanding briefly.
Why selected: The universal beading on both 6mm and 4mm sides increases compatibility across different vehicles and awning rails, making it a flexible choice for owners who travel with varying setups.
Caution: Ensure your vehicle rail system matches the kit’s beading sizes before purchase to avoid fit issues.
Etomvoop Drive Away Awning Fitting Kit | 6mm – 6mm
Best for: Travelers who want a modular, long rail system that can cover several segments of an awning channel. The kit includes six 50 cm sections totaling 3 meters for a customizable fit.
Why selected: Its length and modular construction offer flexibility for varied vehicle widths and awning models, making it easier to adapt on the road.
Caution: Verify the 3m total length aligns with your vehicle’s available mounting space to prevent overhang or gaps.
Drive Away Awning Fixing Kit | ‘8’ Channel
Best for: Vehicle owners who routinely use an 8 mm channel rail system and want a stable, freestanding awning setup when the vehicle drives away.
Why selected: The 8 mm channel design offers strong attachment, reducing sway and wind-induced movement while the kit remains easy to attach and detach.
Caution: This kit assumes compatibility with 8 mm channels; confirm your awning’s channel size before buying.
Drive Away Campervan Awning Fixing Kit | 6 & 4 mm Beading
Best for: Owners who need compatibility with both 6 mm and 4 mm beadings and want a straightforward, robust fixing kit for day trips or longer stays.
Why selected: The dual beading capability expands compatibility across more awning types, and the kit’s simple installation supports quick drive-away operations.
Caution: If your rails use a non-standard beading size, this kit may not fit perfectly without adapters.
Lippert Components Solera Drive Head Assembly
Best for: RV owners replacing a Solera crank-style drive head when the original is failing or worn.
Why selected: The drive head is a direct compatibility point for Solera crank-type awnings, simplifying replacement without broader kit changes.
Caution: This part targets Solera crank-style systems; verify your model is Solera and uses a compatible crank mechanism before purchase.
Buying Guide
What to consider when choosing a drive-away kit
- Rail compatibility: Check beading sizes (6 mm, 4 mm) and whether your awning uses Figure of Eight channels or C channels.
- Channel size: Ensure the kit supports the channel size on your vehicle’s rail system (8 mm, 6 mm, 4 mm, etc.).
- Length and modularity: For longer vans, consider kits with multiple segments or longer rails to minimize gaps when driving away.
- Durability: Look for PVC or similar high-toughness materials that resist weathering and tear under wind load.
- Ease of installation: Favor kits with simple edge-to-edge sliding installations to reduce setup time.
- Replacement parts: If you own a specific system (like Solera), consider a kit or head assembly designed for that system to simplify maintenance.
How to match a kit to your use case
- Casual weekend campers: Choose universal three-side beading kits for flexibility across brands.
- Long trips with varying awnings: Look for longer, modular rail kits that can be customized to exact widths.
- Frequent drive-away use: Favor kits with robust 8 mm channels and reliable keder beading for quick detachments.
- Replacement parts: If you already know your system, select brand-specific drive heads or fixing kits to ensure fit.
Materials and maintenance tips
- Inspect beading and channels regularly for wear or bends; replace worn sections promptly.
- Keep PVC components clean and dry to extend life; avoid prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals.
- Store components in a dry, shaded place when not in use to prevent material degradation.
Frequently asked questions
- What is a drive-away awning kit?
It is a system that enables detaching and driving away with the awning still mounted to the vehicle, allowing the awning to stand freestanding while the vehicle moves. - Will a universal kit fit different vans?
Yes, universal kits are designed to fit multiple rail sizes (e.g., 6 mm and 4 mm) and various beading types to maximize compatibility. - How do I know which channel size I need?
Check your awning’s beading size and the vehicle’s rail system; match to the kit’s specified channel size (e.g., 6 mm, 8 mm). - Can I use a drive-away kit for daily use?
Yes, many kits are designed for frequent drive-away use, but ensure the materials and rails are rated for repeated detachment. - Are replacement parts available?
Yes, many manufacturers offer compatible repair parts, such as drive heads or figure-of-eight channels, for ongoing maintenance. - Do drive-away kits require professional installation?
Most kits are designed for DIY installation; follow the included instructions and ensure secure fit before driving away.