DIY van awning

bauhaus · Post by **bauhaus** » Tue Aug 10, 2010 4:03 pm

If I was to hammer two pieces of rebar into the playa (24" down) and slipped some pvc or conduit over them to support the tarp which would be attached to the van, would this suffice? Or should it by guyed down?

This isnt mine but its an example of what I'm talking about.

mudpuppy000 · Post by **mudpuppy000** » Tue Aug 10, 2010 4:13 pm

I think you'll need to guy it down. I think conduit or some aluminum tent poles would be better than PVC.

FIGJAM · Post by **FIGJAM** » Tue Aug 10, 2010 4:15 pm

Id use bigger poles.

robotland · Post by **robotland** » Tue Aug 10, 2010 7:04 pm

I like to slide 2x2" under the roof rack on my Element and then spring-clamp shade material to THAT...No guy lines to trip over! Try spraygluing mylar space blankets onto cardboard- Hold up well and reflects heat crazy well!

Token · Post by **Token** » Tue Aug 10, 2010 8:31 pm

The big problem with small shade like you have in the picture, other than it is really small;

The shade constantly moves and you have to move all your stuff with you. Coolers are big PITA in small shade.

You also have to deal with radiant heat from the playa all around your little shade.

A-frames or other similar structures that provide full coverage on at least two sides are a much better experience.