The plastic struts that are located inside your caravan can break through general wear and tear. While it is possible to purchase a complete replacement it is just as easy to carry out a repair.
To carry out the repair you will require some 9mm tube and this can be plastic but metal will offer enhanced strength.
Remove the strut by unscrewing it from the window frame bearing in mind that some of the broken strut could be left behind. There is a small roll pin located near the handle and the clamp, locate this and use a screwdriver to lever it out. The left-over strut can now be removed.
Place the roll-pin over the roll-pin in the hinge and lightly tap it using a hammer and ensure that the exit hole is positioned at the edge of a solid work surface.
Now it is time to cut the tube to the same size as the strut that was in place previously. A pipe cutter is the preferred tool to cut but it is possible to use a hacksaw although the finish won’t be quite as good.
Drill a hole that is 3.5mm wide into the strut ensuring it is 5mm from the end. Push the hinge roll-pin halfway into the strut ensuring that the end moves freely when in the hinge. If it does move freely, continue to push it all the way in.
The inside of the tube may need cleaning and this can be achieved using a round file, this will ensure a good finish. If the strut slides in and out of the tube smoothly it is possible to fit it.
Things to remember
The roll pin located in the clamps stops the window from being opened too wide. With it remove this will no longer be the case and so it is up to the caravan owner to ensure that the window is not opened to wide. If you are using metal tubs then there is a possibility that it could corrode over time especially if it gets wet, therefore, if you are changing a shower window it is recommended that you use a plastic tube.
