ROOF & EXTERIOR

INEOS Grenadier Awning Setup: DualTrack Mount Guide

Step-by-step install, torque specs, driver vs passenger side — and what 270° owners wish they'd known before mounting.

Mounting an awning on your INEOS Grenadier takes about 60–90 minutes and requires no drilling. The DVA DualTrack crossbars clip directly onto the Grenadier's factory roof rails, and the DVA Awning Mounts bolt into the crossbar T-slots. Two mounts handle awnings up to 2.5m; add a third mount for anything longer. The entire roof stays within the 150 kg (330 lb) dynamic load limit as long as your awning is under 15–20 kg — which most 270° models are.

⚡ QUICK ANSWER

How to mount an awning on a Grenadier:

  1. Install DVA DualTrack crossbars onto the factory roof rails — torque clamps to 20 Nm (14.7 ft-lb)
  2. Choose side: most owners mount passenger side (keeps driver-side clear for passing traffic)
  3. Slide DVA Awning Mounts into the crossbar T-slots — torque to 10 Nm (7.4 ft-lb)
  4. Bolt awning's mounting channel to the mounts — torque to 20 Nm (14.7 ft-lb)
  5. Deploy the awning and verify it opens parallel to the ground

What You'll Need

DVA Products:

Tools:
  • Torque wrench (calibrated, capable of 5-30 Nm / 3.7-22.1 ft-lb range)
  • Socket set (13mm, 17mm)
  • Hex key set (5mm, 6mm)
  • Measuring tape (metric and imperial)
  • Marker (non-permanent)
  • Level (small spirit level)
  • Step ladder or roof access platform
  • Medium-strength threadlocker (e.g., Loctite 243)
  • Clean rags
  • Safety glasses
  • Nitrile gloves

Driver Side vs Passenger Side — Which Should You Choose?

The most common question on TheIneosForum isn't about torque — it's about which side. Here's the practical breakdown:

  • Passenger side (left in US/Canada): Most popular choice. Opens away from passing traffic when you're parked roadside. Easier for solo setup when the driver door is used for gear access. Most 270° awning owners in North America mount passenger side.
  • Driver side (right in US/Canada): Better if your campsite typically has the terrain obstacle on the driver side, or if you tow a trailer on the passenger side. Some owners prefer this for access to camp chairs stored behind the driver seat.
  • Both sides (dual awning): Possible with 4 DualTrack crossbars. Adds ~20–30 kg to roof load — check your total against the 150 kg dynamic limit.

"Which side is best for an awning? 'Driver side' or 'passenger side' [answers] are much appreciated. Type of (planned) awning (batwing, straight) is of course important."

— TheIneosForum member, Thread #12413415 (270° awning no roof rack, Oct 2023)

Technical Specifications & Compatibility

The DVA Awning Mount system for the INEOS Grenadier leverages the vehicle's inherent roof strength and DVA's precision-engineered components.

INEOS Grenadier Roof Load Capacity:

  • Dynamic Load: 150 kg (330 lb)
  • Static Load: 300 kg (660 lb)
Note: The total weight of your awning, DVA crossbars, and any other roof-mounted accessories must remain within these limits.

DVA DualTrack Crossbars (Grenadier Specific):

  • Material: Extruded 6063-T6 aluminum alloy, anodized finish.
  • Profile: 80mm (W) x 25mm (H) with integrated T-slot channels on top and bottom surfaces for accessory attachment.
  • Attachment: Direct to INEOS Grenadier factory roof mounting rails using DVA proprietary clamps.
  • Clamp Hardware: M8 stainless steel bolts, flat washers, lock washers.
  • Recommended Torque (Crossbar to Grenadier Rails): 20 Nm (14.7 ft-lb) per clamp bolt.
  • Weight: Approximately 2.5 kg (5.5 lb) per 1400mm crossbar.
DVA Awning Mounts:
  • Material: Extruded 6063-T6 aluminum alloy, anodized finish.
  • Compatibility: Designed for seamless integration with DVA DualTrack crossbars (T-slot interface) and universal compatibility with most aftermarket awnings featuring a standard M8 bolt mounting channel.
  • Mounting Hardware (Mount to Crossbar): M6 stainless steel T-slot bolts, flat washers, lock washers.
  • Recommended Torque (Awning Mount to DualTrack Crossbar): 10 Nm (7.4 ft-lb) per M6 bolt. Apply medium-strength threadlocker.
  • Mounting Hardware (Awning to Mount): M8 stainless steel bolts, flat washers, lock washers (typically supplied with the awning, but DVA mounts accommodate M8).
  • Recommended Torque (Awning to Awning Mount): 20 Nm (14.7 ft-lb) per M8 bolt. Apply medium-strength threadlocker.
  • Maximum Awning Weight Capacity (per pair of mounts): 40 kg (88 lb), assuming even load distribution and adherence to Grenadier roof load limits.
This system ensures a stable platform, distributing the awning's weight effectively across the Grenadier's roof structure while maintaining a low-profile fitment.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Safety Precaution: Always work on a level surface. Wear safety glasses and gloves. Enlist assistance when lifting heavy or bulky items like awnings.

Step 1: Install DVA DualTrack Crossbars

  • Position Crossbars: Place the DVA DualTrack crossbars onto the INEOS Grenadier's factory roof mounting rails. Ensure the T-slot channels face upwards. For optimal load distribution and aerodynamic stability, aim for a minimum spacing of 800mm (31.5 inches) between the two crossbars. For awnings longer than 2.0m (6.5 ft), a third crossbar is recommended for enhanced support.
    • Tools: Measuring tape, marker.
    • Safety: Verify crossbar ends do not overhang excessively, maintaining a safe vehicle width.
    • Common Mistake: Uneven crossbar spacing can lead to uneven load distribution and potential instability. Measure from a consistent point on the roof rails for accuracy.
  • Secure Rail Clamps: Slide the DVA rail clamps onto the underside of the crossbar and align them with the Grenadier's roof rails. Insert the M8 stainless steel bolts through the clamps and into the crossbar's base channel. Hand-tighten all four (or six) clamp bolts evenly until snug.
    • Tools: 13mm socket.
    • Safety: Ensure clamps are fully seated on the roof rails before tightening.
    • Common Mistake: Forgetting to fully seat the clamps, leading to a loose connection.
  • Torque Crossbar Clamps: Using a calibrated torque wrench, tighten each M8 clamp bolt to 20 Nm (14.7 ft-lb). Tighten in a crisscross pattern to ensure even clamping pressure.
    • Tools: Torque wrench, 13mm socket.
    • Safety: Overtightening can damage the roof rails or clamp hardware. Undertightening can result in crossbar movement.
    • Common Mistake: Applying uneven torque, which can distort the clamps or cause premature wear.

    Step 2: Prepare Awning for Mounts

  • Unbox and Inspect Awning: Carefully unbox your awning and lay it on a clean, flat surface. Identify the awning's mounting channel, typically a track designed to accept M8 bolts.
    • Tools: Clean rags.
    • Safety: Note the awning's weight. Plan for assistance in subsequent steps.
    • Common Mistake: Damaging the awning fabric or housing during unboxing.
  • Determine Mount Spacing: Measure the distance between the mounting points on your awning. This will dictate the required spacing for the DVA Awning Mounts on your DualTrack crossbars. For awnings up to 2.5m, two mounts are generally sufficient. For longer awnings, a third mount centrally located is advised.
    • Tools: Measuring tape.
    • Safety: Ensure the awning's mounting points align with areas on the crossbars that provide adequate support and clearance.
    • Common Mistake: Incorrectly measuring the awning's mounting points, leading to misalignment.

    Step 3: Attach DVA Awning Mounts to Crossbars

  • Insert T-slot Bolts: Insert the M6 T-slot bolts into the top channel of the DVA DualTrack crossbars according to the spacing determined in Step 2.
    • Tools: None.
    • Safety: Ensure T-slot bolts are oriented correctly to slide smoothly.
    • Common Mistake: Forcing T-slot bolts, which can jam or damage the channel.
  • Position Awning Mounts: Slide the DVA Awning Mounts over the M6 T-slot bolts. Align them squarely on the crossbar.
    • Tools: None.
    • Safety: Ensure the mounts are positioned to allow for easy attachment of the awning.
    • Common Mistake: Not aligning mounts parallel to the crossbar, leading to a twisted awning.
  • Secure Awning Mounts: Apply a drop of medium-strength threadlocker to the M6 bolts. Hand-tighten the hex nuts (or bolts) securing the DVA Awning Mounts to the crossbars. Using a torque wrench, tighten each M6 bolt to 10 Nm (7.4 ft-lb).
    • Tools: Torque wrench, 5mm or 6mm hex key, threadlocker.
    • Safety: Threadlocker is essential to prevent loosening under vibration.
    • Common Mistake: Omitting threadlocker or overtightening, which can strip the aluminum crossbar channel or bolt threads.

    Step 4: Lift and Secure Awning to DVA Awning Mounts

  • Lift Awning onto Mounts: With assistance, carefully lift the awning and position it onto the DVA Awning Mounts. Align the awning's mounting channel with the holes on the DVA mounts.
    • Tools: Level.
    • Safety: Use at least two people. Exercise caution to avoid scratching the vehicle's paint or dropping the awning.
    • Common Mistake: Attempting to lift the awning alone, risking injury or damage.
  • Insert Awning Bolts: Insert the M8 bolts (typically supplied with the awning) through the awning's mounting channel and into the DVA Awning Mounts. Apply a drop of medium-strength threadlocker to each M8 bolt. Hand-tighten all bolts.
    • Tools: 17mm socket (or specific to awning hardware), threadlocker.
    • Safety: Ensure bolts are long enough to engage fully without protruding excessively.
    • Common Mistake: Not using threadlocker, leading to bolts loosening during travel.
  • Torque Awning Bolts: Using a calibrated torque wrench, tighten each M8 bolt to 20 Nm (14.7 ft-lb). Tighten progressively and evenly across all mounting points.
    • Tools: Torque wrench, 17mm socket.
    • Safety: Verify the awning is level and securely fastened. Avoid overtightening, which can deform the awning housing or strip threads.
    • Common Mistake: Uneven torque, which can stress the awning housing or mounts.

    Step 5: Final Inspection

  • System Check: Double-check all DVA crossbar clamp bolts (20 Nm), DVA Awning Mount bolts (10 Nm), and awning attachment bolts (20 Nm) with your torque wrench.
    • Tools: Torque wrench.
    • Safety: Confirm all components are secure and free from movement.
    • Common Mistake: Skipping this final verification step, potentially leading to component failure during use.
  • Clearance Verification: Ensure adequate clearance between the awning, mounts, and any other roof-mounted accessories or the vehicle itself. Check for potential contact points during vehicle articulation or door opening.
    • Tools: None.
    • Safety: Verify no components interfere with safe vehicle operation.

    Troubleshooting

  • Awning Exhibits Excessive Wobble or Movement:
    • Issue: The awning feels unstable, particularly at speed or on rough terrain.
    • Solution: Re-check all torque specifications. Verify crossbar-to-rail clamps are at 20 Nm. Ensure DVA Awning Mounts are torqued to 10 Nm and awning-to-mount bolts are at 20 Nm. Inspect for any signs of component deformation or wear. Ensure threadlocker was applied.
  • Awning Does Not Sit Level:
    • Issue: The awning appears tilted or uneven when mounted.
    • Solution: Verify the Grenadier's factory roof rails are level. Confirm DVA DualTrack crossbars are installed level across the roof. Ensure DVA Awning Mounts are seated squarely in the crossbar T-slots. Small adjustments can be made by loosening the awning-to-mount bolts, leveling the awning, and then re-torquing.
  • Unexpected Wind Noise from Roof:
    • Issue: New or increased aerodynamic noise after installation.
    • Solution: Check if the awning is fully retracted and securely latched within its cover. Inspect for any loose components on the DVA crossbars or mounts. Ensure no gaps exist between the awning and its housing. Adjust crossbar spacing if possible to optimize airflow, though the primary factor is often the awning's design itself.
  • Difficulty Sliding T-slot Bolts in Crossbar Channels:
    • Issue: The T-slot bolts for the DVA Awning Mounts are stiff or bind when inserted into the DualTrack crossbar.
    • Solution: Ensure the T-slot bolts are oriented correctly (usually a flat side facing up/down). Clean the crossbar T-slot channels thoroughly to remove any debris or aluminum shavings. A light application of dry lubricant (e.g., silicone spray) can aid movement. Do not force the bolts.

    What Grenadier Owners Say

    "We have a Darche 270. Love it! Rated to 30km/hr freestanding, or add poles for cyclonic conditions. Setup in less than a minute."

    — tazzieman, TheIneosForum Thread #12415027 (270 Awnings, Which One? Mar 2024)

    "I wanted an awning without poles. The [270°] was the best option for me. I had a [straight awning] on the Patrol which I rarely used because of the poles. A simpler solution is just a single awning out one side. Easy to set up, lots of choices and does not cost the earth."

    — TheDocAUS, TheIneosForum Thread #12415027 (270 Awnings, Which One? Mar 2024)

    "The gap between [crossbars] was approx 910-915mm which spread the load evenly enough and didn't cover or restrict access to the roof power points."

    — Forum member, TheIneosForum Thread #12413415 (270° Awning No Roof Rack, Oct 2023)

    Pro Tips from the Field

    • Pre-Trip Inspection: Before any extended trip or off-road excursion, conduct a thorough inspection of all mounting hardware. Check torque values on all bolts and visually confirm no components are loose or compromised. Vibration can loosen fasteners over time.
    • Awning Care: Regularly clean your awning fabric and housing according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Ensure the awning is dry before retracting it for extended periods to prevent mold and mildew. Inspect arms and hinges for smooth operation.
    • Weight Distribution: Be cognizant of the Grenadier's static and dynamic roof load limits. An awning adds significant weight, especially larger 270-degree models. Distribute any additional roof cargo strategically to maintain vehicle stability and reduce stress on the mounting system.
    • Security: For enhanced security in high-risk environments, consider replacing standard M6/M8 hex head bolts with security fasteners that require specialized tools for removal.
    • Seasonal Removal: If you do not use your awning year-round, consider removing it for the off-season. This reduces aerodynamic drag, improves fuel efficiency, and prolongs the life of the awning fabric and hardware by protecting it from prolonged environmental exposure.

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