Fix Forrest River 42DL RV Roller Shades: Spring & Tension Help

The two symptoms do not establish that either shade needs a new spring, and the 42DL coach name does not identify a compatible part. Treat the shade that will not stay down and the shade that will not retract as separate mechanisms to identify. Record the maker, product line, label or revision, shade width, exposed metal roller-tube outside diameter and both end fittings for each shade. Two windows in the same RV need not use the same mechanism.

Irvine's replacement-parts reference separates Slow-Rise springs, one-inch Valu-Line springs, ¾-inch Valu-Line springs and auto-stop components. The spring and stopping mechanism have different functions; a failure to hold position is not proof that a replacement spring includes the required stop or clutch. A ¾-inch diameter alone also does not identify the spring length, end fitting or revision.

The current ¾-inch Valu-Line spring listing is an identification reference for an applicable Irvine system, not a confirmed replacement for this RV. Compare the actual shade and original assembly before choosing an option. Irvine publishes different spring families and sizes; do not substitute a one-inch or 1¼-inch system because it has a similar appearance, and do not select the ¾-inch listing solely from the coach model.

For a positively identified Irvine Slow-Rise mechanism that matches the illustrated controls, the manufacturer's operation and adjustment sheet distinguishes upper-stop and speed adjustments. It does not establish the earlier generic procedure of removing the shade and hand-rolling the fabric several times. Do not apply that procedure to an unidentified tensioned mechanism. Use the instructions for the actual system or qualified shade-service help; the failed component, compatible replacement and repair outcome remain unconfirmed.