So this is embarrassing... took my rig out for a quick shakedown run and somehow my door awning motor cap decided to take flight somewhere down the highway. Pretty sure it's my fault since I only used one clip when I put it back on after cleaning the motor (rookie mistake, I know).
It's an A&E Oasis Elite awning and now I've got this exposed motor end just sitting there collecting whatever the weather throws at it. I'm kinda freaking out about moisture getting in there and frying the whole thing. What's the best way to get a replacement cap? And in the meantime, how do I protect this thing from getting waterlogged? Please tell me this is a simple fix and not some nightmare parts hunt!
Replace door awning motor cap by identifying awning brand and ordering from RV parts supplier or manufacturer. Protect motor end from moisture until replacement arrives. Most caps snap or screw on.
Your A&E Oasis Elite awning motor cap can be replaced without buying an entire new motor unit. Since you've already contacted Dometic and Fimma, that's the right first step - A&E was acquired by Dometic, so they should have replacement caps available for around $15-25 (pricing current as of 2024 and may vary by location and supplier). If they can't help, universal motor end caps from Carefree or generic RV parts suppliers will work as temporary fixes. The cap protects the motor's internal components from moisture and debris, so you'll want to get this sorted before your 30-day departure timeline. In a pinch, you can create a temporary weatherproof seal using marine-grade silicone and a small piece of aluminum or plastic sheeting until you find the correct part for your model (verify with dealer).
The good news is this is a relatively common issue that many RV owners face, especially when performing maintenance without securing all clips properly. Your Oasis Elite is a popular model, so parts availability should be decent through Dometic's service network or aftermarket suppliers. Most RV parts stores can cross-reference your part number to find compatible replacements, and installation typically takes just 10-15 minutes with basic tools.
The motor cap on your A&E Oasis Elite serves several critical functions beyond just covering the motor housing. It creates a weatherproof barrier that prevents moisture infiltration, which is the number one killer of awning motors. The cap also keeps dust, dirt, and debris from entering the motor assembly, which can cause premature wear of the internal gears and drive mechanism. Since you mentioned this happened during cleaning, you're already aware of the importance of proper maintenance - losing this cap could lead to much more expensive motor replacement down the road if moisture gets inside.
A&E Systems was indeed acquired by Dometic in 2010, which is why you're getting bounced between manufacturers. Dometic now handles all warranty and parts support for A&E products, including your Oasis Elite model. When Dometic responds, ask specifically for the motor end cap part number - this will help you search for alternatives if Dometic doesn't have immediate stock.
The timing of your repair is crucial since you're planning to leave in 30 days. Awning motors are particularly vulnerable during travel due to road vibration and changing weather conditions. Without the protective cap, moisture can enter the motor housing through the gear mechanism, potentially causing corrosion of the motor windings or gear assembly. Even a small amount of water intrusion can cause the motor to fail unexpectedly, leaving you with a manual retraction situation that's difficult to manage solo.
If you can't locate an exact replacement through official channels, there are several viable alternatives. Carefree of Colorado makes universal motor caps that fit most standard awning motors, including many A&E models. These typically run $20-30 (note that prices may vary by location and supplier) and are available through most RV parts suppliers. Another option is to check with local RV salvage yards - the Oasis Elite was a popular model, and you might find a donor awning with an intact motor cap. Just make sure to measure the diameter and threading before purchasing any universal replacement.
WARNING: Ensure awning is fully retracted and motor is de-energized before beginning any work. Working with awning systems under tension can cause serious injury.
For this repair, you'll need minimal tools, which makes it an ideal DIY project for most RV owners. The primary tool requirement is a good set of screwdrivers, both flathead and Phillips head, in various sizes. The motor cap is typically secured with either screws or a bayonet-style twist lock, depending on your specific motor model. You'll also want a small flashlight or headlamp since awning motors are often mounted in shadowed areas that are difficult to see clearly.
Additional tools that will make the job easier include a small wire brush for cleaning any corrosion from the threads, marine-grade thread sealant or silicone caulk for ensuring a watertight seal, and a small mirror to help you see the back side of the motor housing. If you need to create a temporary fix, you'll want some aluminum flashing or heavy-duty plastic sheeting, along with stainless steel hose clamps or heavy-duty zip ties for securing the temporary cover.
Safety equipment is minimal but important. Work gloves will protect your hands from sharp edges on the motor housing and awning hardware. Safety glasses are recommended when working overhead, as debris can fall from the awning mechanism. If you're working on an extended awning, have someone help support the awning fabric to prevent accidental retraction during the repair process.
For measurement and fitting purposes, keep a ruler or tape measure handy, along with a thread pitch gauge if you have one available. This will help ensure any replacement cap you purchase will thread properly onto your motor housing. A smartphone camera is also useful for taking reference photos before disassembly, especially if you're dealing with any additional wiring or control connections near the motor.
SAFETY WARNING: Disconnect power to the awning motor at the circuit breaker or fuse panel before beginning work. Test the awning switch to verify power is off. If accessible, disconnect the motor's electrical connections and secure them away from the work area. Ensure awning is fully retracted and properly secured.
Start by fully retracting your awning to relieve tension on the motor and make access easier. The motor should be in its parked position with no load on the mechanism. Locate the motor housing on your Oasis Elite - it's typically mounted at one end of the awning roller tube, either on the passenger or driver side depending on your RV's configuration. Clean the area around the motor housing to remove any dirt or debris that might fall into the motor during cap installation.
Before purchasing or installing any replacement cap, identify your specific motor model number (usually found on a label on the motor housing) and measure the cap diameter and thread specifications. This information is crucial for ordering the correct replacement part. Before installing any replacement cap, inspect the motor housing threads carefully. Look for signs of corrosion, cross-threading, or damage from the original cap coming loose. If you see white or green corrosion on aluminum threads, clean them gently with a wire brush and apply a small amount of marine-grade anti-seize compound. This will prevent future corrosion and make cap removal easier during future maintenance.
If you're installing an OEM replacement cap from Dometic, the process is straightforward. Thread the cap onto the motor housing by hand first, turning clockwise until it seats properly. Don't force it - if there's resistance, back out and check for cross-threading or debris in the threads. Once hand-tight, use a screwdriver or appropriate tool to snug the cap down, but don't over-tighten as this can crack plastic caps or strip aluminum threads.
For universal replacement caps, you may need to verify the fit before final installation. Test-fit the cap without any sealant first to ensure proper threading and seating. Some universal caps come with rubber gaskets or O-rings - make sure these are properly seated in their grooves before installation. If your replacement cap doesn't include a gasket, apply a thin bead of marine-grade silicone sealant around the threads before installation.
If you're creating a temporary fix while waiting for parts, secure a piece of marine-grade material over the motor housing opening with appropriate fasteners, ensuring a weatherproof seal until the replacement cap arrives.
The repair is involved but still manageable. Cut a piece of aluminum flashing or heavy plastic approximately 1 inch larger than the motor opening on all sides. Clean the motor housing surface and apply a continuous 1/8-inch bead of marine-grade silicone caulk around the motor housing threads, then press the temporary cover firmly into place, ensuring full contact with the sealant. Secure with stainless steel hose clamps or heavy-duty zip ties, making sure the seal is watertight around the entire perimeter. This temporary solution should last several months if properly installed.
After installation, test the awning operation to ensure the motor functions properly and the cap remains securely in place. Run the awning through a complete extend/retract cycle to verify normal operation. Run the awning through several extend and retract cycles, listening for any unusual noises that might indicate the cap is rubbing against other components. Check that the cap remains securely attached during operation - if it loosens, you may need to add thread locking compound or adjust the installation.
Document your repair with photos and keep records of the replacement part number for future reference. This information will be valuable for warranty claims or future maintenance needs. Consider ordering a spare cap to keep in your RV's parts kit, especially if you frequently perform maintenance that requires cap removal.
While motor cap replacement is generally a straightforward DIY repair, there are situations where professional help is warranted. If you discover significant corrosion inside the motor housing when you remove the old cap, this indicates moisture has already penetrated the system. Corroded motor windings or gear assemblies typically require complete motor replacement, which is a more complex job involving electrical connections and precise mechanical alignment.
Signs that you need professional service include unusual noises from the motor during operation, slow or jerky awning movement, or visible corrosion on internal components. If the motor housing threads are damaged beyond repair, a technician may need to install a threaded insert or replace the entire motor housing assembly. These repairs require specialized tools and experience with RV electrical systems.
Another scenario requiring professional help is if your awning uses an integrated control system where the motor cap also houses electronic components or sensors. Some newer A&E models include wind sensors or automatic retraction systems that are integrated into the motor cap assembly. Modifying or replacing these components incorrectly can affect the entire awning control system and may void warranties on newer units.
If you're uncomfortable working at height or your awning is mounted in a difficult-to-reach location, professional installation is the safer choice. RV service technicians have the proper equipment and experience to work safely around awning mechanisms and can often complete the repair more quickly than a DIY approach. The cost for professional motor cap replacement may be worthwhile given your 30-day departure timeline.
Finally, if you continue having issues with caps coming loose or falling off, there may be an underlying problem with the motor mounting or housing integrity. A qualified RV technician can inspect the entire awning system for proper installation and identify any modifications needed to prevent future cap loss. This is particularly important if you're planning extended travel, as repeated cap failures can lead to complete motor failure in remote locations where repair services aren't readily available.
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