I was at a show this past weekend and my trimline sidewall zipper broke where it attaches to the canopy and is now  stuck to the canopy.  I was wondering if anyone had any tips on how to remove it without breaking the zipper?  I am a little desperate as I have a show this weekend with chances of rain, and fear that my only recourse is overnighting a new sidewall.  Any suggestions?

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  • Thought you meant to use soap as zipper lubricant.
  • I mentioned soap to unstick the zipper.

    Larry Berman

  • Larry, soap is ok but it will wash off in a good rain. I use bees wax because it will last longer
  • Okay, whew!  Turns out I was not paying attention, and got a little piece of the seam stuck in the zipper when I closed up for the night.  I actually had to cut a small piece of the material where the edge folds over to get the zipper unstuck.  I sealed that cut out edge, although I really can't see where water could come in anyway, as it is not where the zipper edge meets the canopy.  Luckily I did not break any teeth when I pulled it really hard.

    Thanks for all of the suggestions.  I tried the soap, and WD-40, and that enabled me to slide enough to pull the tarp material out after cutting.  I will remember the other information in case it happens again.  I just need to be a little more careful next time.

  • I work with zippers all the time. They consist of tape, teeth, stops and slider. If teeth and tape are damaged, replace the zipper. If the slider comes off the zipper, put on stops. If the slider is broken, replace it and start at the beginning of the draw. You can get plastic and metal parts on line from Ohio a Travel Bag ($30 minimum I think or service fee). Tent, awning, upholstery, leather shops have the type sewing machines needed to put in new zippers.
  • Try soap.

    Larry Berman

  • If the sidewall is still attached to the canopy, and the zipper will close, leave it that way for the time being. 

    I have had the same problem with a top zip. I forced it, and broke off a couple of teeth. The zipper will slide on mine, but I have to be careful that it doesn't slide off at the starting point, where it's broken.

  • Try contacting an awning company.  They resewed all my zippers on my tent sides for a very resonable price.  They might be able to help.  Good luck.

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