How to replace an AirBeam tube

Oct 14, 2024

While it's uncommon to experience a faulty Vango AirBeam tube in your tent or awning, it's still helpful to know what to do if it happens. Below are some tips for diagnosing a leak and replacing the tube if necessary.

First, it’s wise to carry a spare AirBeam tube on your camping trips, just in case. You can contact your retailer to confirm which specific tube you need for your tent or awning. However, it is worth noting that Vango covers all AirBeam tubes with a 2-year warranty, which you can extend to 3 years by registering your purchase on Vango's website. If your beam is losing air, speak to your retailer for a replacement. However, keeping an extra tube on hand ensures you're prepared for any unexpected issues, avoiding potential delays to your holiday.

In this article, we'll walk you through the process step-by-step, sharing tips and insights to help you tackle this task with ease and confidence.

Is Your AirBeam Defective?

1. Inspect the beam for visible damage. Check for punctures or tears on the surface.

2. If it seems intact, listen for escaping air, indicating a small puncture.

3. Ensure to check valves for proper sealing.

4. Inspect the beam for any kinks or twists, as these can create pressure points that may damage the beam.

Identifying these issues early can save time and prevent unnecessary.

How to Replace an AirBeam

If you find yourself needing to replace the AirBeam, follow these easy steps:

  1. Start by unzipping the sleeve that holds the damaged beam.
  2. Carefully remove the inner beam from the sleeve. For older models, remember the beams may be clipped to the groundsheet, so handle with care. In newer models, they are typically secured with Velcro.
  3. Once the beam is free, cut any zip ties and unzip the beam casing to remove the faulty tube.
  4. Take your new beam, ensuring the valve goes in first, and slide it into the protective cover.
  5. Make sure the beam is straight and untwisted, lining it up smoothly inside the sleeve.
  6. Fold the end of the beam neatly into the far side of the sleeve to keep everything in place.
  7. Zip up the cover and test-inflate the beam to confirm it’s correctly positioned.
  8. After the test, deflate the beam and close any zip ties to secure it.
  9. Place the beam back into its sleeve inside the tent, zip it up, and inflate fully to complete the replacement.

Pro Tip: Before inflating your new AirBeam, ensure the sleeve is fully zipped up. Inflating the tube with an open or partially zipped sleeve can lead to damage, so double-check everything is secure to avoid any issues.

This step-by-step process should help you change your AirBeam efficiently without hassle.