Tent repair: zipper repair/replace

[Dumpstick]

I have a Eureka tent, an Equinox 6. It was around $500 when I purchased it about 30 years ago, so this tent is worth repairing.

I loaned it out (yeah, I know, and I'm paying for it) and it came back damaged. Someone got in a hurry, and yanked the door zipper off track. Of course, I wasn't told about it...

I tried contacting the Eureka company for repairs: it essentially doesn't exist anymore. It was bought and sold a couple times, with the last company retaining the brand name but selling everything else. They no longer repair the tents.

I thought perhaps I could repair it - how hard can it be? I split the seam open, but I cannot get the zipper back on track.

Anyone know anyone that can repair this, or replace the zipper? Perhaps an upholstery shop, or an awning/tent company?

I'm in central Okieland, but I can drive if needed.

 

[swampratt]

Trumans fabric and foam sells zippers and can also install them.
I had them build a bimini top for my boat years ago.
I also buy materials from them.

Zippers come in a huge roll and they cut off what you need.
You could Use E6000 and glue that zipper assembly together if you do not wish to sew it.
It will outlast the tent.

 

[Dumpstick]

Truman, down off I-44 south of the Lawton junction? I've seen them...

 

[swampratt]

Truman, down off I-44 south of the Lawton junction? I've seen them...

My Truman is off I-44 but near okc and 89th street i think . Really nice people.

 

[Okiedog]

Edward's Canvas in Pauls Valley has done a lot of quality work for me.

 

[Chief Sapulpa]

There are a bunch of YouTube videos on repairing tent zippers.

 

[trekrok]

Scrap it and see if there's a roof top tent for sale anywhere. Classifieds maybe?

If not, good luck, but don't know anything helpful.

 

[Firpo]

IMO on something like this you’ll come out ahead having someone do the repair that knows what they’re doing. Apparently that is Truman’s. 🤷🏼‍♂️

 

[THAT Gurl]

If you want the experience, it isn't hard but it can be a bit tedious. It is amazing the amount of pressure it takes to push a needle carrying that heavy thread through so many layers of poly fabric AND a heavy duty zipper tape. Also, if you do it yourself, order the zipper tape and parts, thread and needles from a dedicated furniture/boat top repair place, NOT JoAnn's.

I have done similar repairs and if it was me, I'd take it to Truman's. They have the right thread, the right zipper/zipper components, and the right sewing machine to make it right quickly, with a bit more consistent quality of stitching than someone with a home sewing machine. Mind you I'm NOT saying you can't do it -- just chances are it's gonna have you cussing like a sailor before you are done, and probably calling Truman's anyway.