Expedition Awnings for the Fzj80

After this last camping trip we have decided to add onto our camping gear with the addition of an awning for the Fzj80. The below listed awnings are the ones that made my final cut due to cost, efficiency, and weight. Right now I am heavily considering weight because every additional pound on the roof reduces what we can store on the roof such as water or extra gas. I think I would like to add on a mosquito netting eventually so I will be looking at the cost for accessories for each of my top choices. I also have to keep in mind that I will be mounting this to Yakima bars so available mounting hardware is also a considering factor. I have not seen any of these in person so I have to make a decision solely on the specs and variables.

Fiamma F35

• 10/18/17 Update: Fiamma has reopened for business.
• At the time of writing this fiamma inc is Closed in the USA: Unfortunately the U.S. manufacturing facility for fiamma awning in Orange County Florida closed indefinitely after a June 5^th 2017 shooting at the facility. If you wish to order a Fiamma you may be looking at international shipping costs if you can find a dealer willing to ship internationally.

 $568.00

06762B01(X)

F35 Pro 2.5m Titanium – 8’2″ 7’5″ projection, 20lbs.

 

Pros:

• Easy, reliable, quick set up
• Aluminum storage shell
• 2 opening buttons
• 2 containing straps
• 20lb weight

Cons

• Usually requires two people for the fast set up and take down
• No side straps to keep the awning from flapping around in the wind (Look at the ARB awning which has the Velcro straps and the Ezi-Awn Swift awning is built into its legs.
• Expensive add on accessories, privacy room $876.00

Fiamma to Yakima mounts $96/ set through Eurocampers.com

Eezi-Awn Swift

$480.00

Dimensions (Open)	84″ L x 89″ W | 2100mm L x 2250mm W
Material (Awning)	260-gram Waterproof Ripstop Canvas
Weight	34 lbs | 15 kg

 

Pros:

• One person fast set up and dismantling does not require 2 people at any point
• Awning canvas is built into the arms
• Can be extended without the use of the telescopic legs

 

Cons

• Expensive to add on accessories, privacy room $825.00
• 34lbs

ARB Aluminum Awning

$446.00 +Free shipping and no tax

98.4″ x 98.4″ (2500mm x 2500mm)

 

Compatible with all ARB 2500mm x 2500mm awning accessories arms

Weight 16kg / 35 lbs

Delux Awning Room $210.90

Pros:

• Affordable accessories
• Aluminum hard shell storage
• Rip stop material/non flammable
• Velcro tie downs
• Pegs and reflective guy ropes included

Cons

• 34LBS
• Cumbersome, could require 2 people when assembling and disassembling

Mounting Hardware

There are many DIY solutions however if you are looking for ready-made solutions here are a few I came across and am considering myself.

Awn-Lock Mounting Set Bomber Products Awning Mounts

This will probably be my first choice purchase once I verify that it works with the Eezi-Awn Swift.

Awn Lock $159.00

Rhino-Rack Universal Awning Bracket Kit

Rhino-Rack Universal Awning Bracket Kit $53.10

 

DIY Options

ARB universal mount $25 + Yakima Universal Mighty Mounts $45.00

Steel Plate Bent + U bolts

Conclusion

Fiamma was my 1^st choice due to their 20lb awning option however I have been unable to locate any Fiamma awnings in the U.S. therefore I am looking at the Eezi-Awn Swift as my 2^nd choice due to its local purchase and pick up location, ease and convenience of use. I do not like that the Eezi-Awn is in a bag protector or that its 34lbs but I am hoping it will hold up and remain sturdy and stout. The Ezi-awn Swift is not compatible with add on wind deflectors or mosquito netting rooms.

As for the mounting hardware I really like the  stout sturdiness of the Awn-Lock Mounting Set Bomber Products Awning Mounts. I am looking for mounts that are easy to use and change sides if needed.

Update 9/14/17: I was able to se the Eezi-awn Swift in person at a local dealer and it’s no longer a viable option because it was too long and intrusive looking for the land cruiser and more mportantly we are buying a new roof rack system. We pick up the Eezi-Awn K9 1.8m roof rack next week for our week long trip through white rim.