The direct replacement gas strut for Solera RV awning arm assemblies with pitched arms. Rated at 124 to 144 lbs of force, this strut keeps your awning operating smoothly and reliably -- whether you have a power or manual Solera system.
A worn or broken gas strut is one of the most common reasons a Solera awning becomes stiff, slams shut, or won't hold its position during extension and retraction. Lippert part 260282 is the factory-correct replacement strut for Solera awning arm assemblies built with pitched (angled) arms -- a design used across a wide range of Lippert Solera power and manual awnings.
Unlike generic gas struts, this unit is calibrated specifically to the force range required by the Solera pitched arm geometry. At 124 to 144 lbs of rated force and a 24.38-inch extended length, it restores the balance the arm assembly was engineered around -- no makeshift adapters or mismatched lengths required.
124 to 144 lbs of gas strut force -- matched to Solera pitched arm geometry for smooth, controlled motion in both directions.
24.38 inches extended, 14.70 inches retracted -- factory dimensions for direct bolt-in fitment without modification.
Compatible with both power and manual Solera awning arm assemblies using pitched arm configurations.
Standard eyelet ends allow straightforward DIY removal and reinstallation using basic hand tools -- no special fixtures required.
Solera awnings are offered with two arm styles: standard and pitched. Pitched arm assemblies hold the awning fabric at an angle to improve water runoff and wind resistance. Because the arm pivot geometry differs from a standard arm, the strut must be a specific length and force rating to function correctly. Installing the wrong strut -- even one that physically connects -- can result in an awning that won't stay open, retracts too fast, or puts excess stress on the arm pivot hardware.
Lippert 260282 is sized and rated specifically for the pitched arm configuration. If your awning uses standard (non-pitched) arms, verify your arm type before ordering.
This strut is compatible with both motorized Solera awning systems and manually operated Solera units, as long as the arm assembly is the pitched style. No wiring or motor interface is involved -- the gas strut is a purely mechanical component.
Replacing the gas strut on a Solera pitched arm awning is a manageable DIY repair for most RV owners. The strut attaches at two eyelet points on the arm assembly. Basic steps typically include:
The gas strut carries load even when the awning is retracted. Always support the arm assembly with a helper or a prop before disconnecting the strut to prevent the arm from dropping suddenly and causing injury or damage to the awning fabric or hardware.
This strut is designed for Solera awning arms with pitched (angled) arms only. If your Solera awning has standard flat arms, you will need a different strut part number. Check the label on your awning arm or reference your rig's build sheet to confirm the arm assembly type.
When replacing one gas strut on a two-arm awning, inspect the opposite arm's strut at the same time. Gas struts wear at similar rates, and replacing both together restores balanced operation and avoids a repeat repair within the same season.