How to Repair a Pop-Up Camper Cable

Having a pop up camper is a true joy, unless you have a problem “popping it up.” There are four sets of pulleys, cables and a crank that “pop up” the camper. If one or more are not functioning properly it won’t go up correctly. It is easy for the owner to repair a pulley or cable problem if they are prepared for it.

• Lift the camper roof very slowly with the help of four friends one on each corner (this can be done with scissor jacks if you have that many). The roof does not have to be completely raised to its full height.


• Have something such as 2X4’s ready to place underneath the corners of the roof on all four sides to hold it up, these should all be the same height. You can provide additional safety by clamping the guide rods on each corner with sturdy c-clamps or locking vice grips.


• Make certain that all the 2X4’s and locking devices are secure and will not be able to move or shift.


• Check all the cables and pulleys to locate the problem that needs repair. If the cable has simply slipped off the pulley put it back on and tighten it down. If the cable has been damaged or is broken take off the pulley and remove the cable. Replace it with the new one and re-attach it to the distribution box using the brackets included in the cable repair kit. Replace the pulley and check to see it is functioning correctly.


• Use an anti-seize lubricant and lubricate the four cranks underneath the camper and on the corners until all parts are moving easily as you work the crank. Apply the lubricant to all cables, pulleys and the corner cables underneath the corners of the camper.