How to Install an Awning on Camper Van. Custom Bracket To Mount Fiamma F45s Awning on T1N Mercedes Dodge Sprinter Van

May 17
2 min read

I'm installing a Fiamma F45s awning onto a T1N 2006 Sprinter van.

The first, totally unnecessary but totally awesome step was to 3D scan the area on the van where the awning needs to be attached. Since I have a custom roof rack (2006 did not come with roof rack attachment points), it's tricky to measure the curvatures and make a template. 3D scanning made it easy to get all the features I needed.

I used the Einscan VEGA 3D scanner to do this. I was working in full sun. The yellow sides of the van were too bright and had to hold an umbrella over the area I was scanning. I used magnetic markers on the smooth surfaces of the van.

Gray metal curved bracket or panel assembly on a white background, shown in close-up with no text.

The 3D scan data was imported into OnShape, aligned using sketches and planes, and then started modeling the bracket over the scan, using the scan data as reference.

CAD render of a black and blue bracket with an angled arm and mounting holes on a white background.

The gap at the bottom of the bracket between the bracket and the body panel is for an L track which will be glued to the side of the van, and the bracket will attach to the L track.

Diagram of a car door frame and roof edge in black and blue on a white background, showing structural lines only.

Here it's shown with the lower L track.

CAD rendering of a black and blue metal clamp securing a light blue slotted rail on a white background

Here it's shown with the stock Fiamma bracket (light blue/green) which is normally used for vertical walls.

CAD-style close-up of a black and blue metal clamp assembly holding a toothed bar on a white background

I laser cut the flat template. The v notches in the edges will make it easy to mark the bend line locations.

Laser cutter bed with a plywood sheet cut into a rounded rectangular panel, rulers along the edges, and blue tape.

Laser cut a profile template to align the bends while bending it. The outline or the profile can be used as a bending guide.

Laser-cut wooden panel with a peaked roof outline in black-edged burnt wood, lying on a gray concrete surface

Two chevron-shaped wooden cutouts on a gray textured surface, one above a white board with a matching cutout, no text visible.

Using a miter saw to cut the aluminum. Go slow and it makes a clean cut. Using the template to set the length. Use clamps to hold the material in place.