If your tent pole set isn't "snapping" together like it used to or if the internal cord, known as shock cord, has snapped or been accidentally cut, it can be replaced. Similar to a rubber band, over time shock cord can lose it's elasticity - especially if your pole set has been in storage for an extended period of time.
When your pole set is folded up, it is actually causing your shock cord to stretch more than when the pole set is fully set up. It is recommended general maintenance to replace the shock cord. Timing of shock cord replacement varies on, as mentioned, how long it's been in storage and the storage condition. Try and store your pole set in a temperature controlled and dry setting. Pole sets typically are made up of more than one section of shock cord (i.e. 4 smaller sections); if you are only needing to replace one particular section of shock cord, rather than the entire pole set, that is achievable!
Repair Option 1: Replace the Shock Cord Yourself
This repair can easily be done from home. First thing you'll need is some replacement shock cord. We offer replacement shock cord on our website. You can also check with your local outdoor gear or hardware store to see if they carry this kind of cord. Based on the model and size of your tent, the amount of shock cord you will need varies. A 1-person tent will need a lot less cord than a 4-person tent, for example. As a reference, 2-person tent will typically require about 25-feet of shock cord, but we recommend having some extra shock cord handy just in case.
Materials Needed
Once you have the shock cord that you need to get your pole set back up and running, you'll also want to grab a pair of scissors, tape, a marker, a lighter, and a clamp. Shock cord is divided into each section of your pole set, so you will have to replace by section. This will make more sense as you start to disassemble your pole set.
Replacement Steps
- Using the marker and tape, mark each segment by number (i.e. 1, 2, 3, etc.) so you can easily reassemble your pole set in the correct order.
- Next, remove the pole end tip either by twisting or pulling the pole end tip straight out.
- After the end tip has been removed, using your scissors you can cut the shock cord.
- Once you have removed the old shock cord and lined up your pole segments, use the old shock cord to measure your new shock cord length, giving yourself a few extra inches to work with.
- Using the lighter, lightly burn the end of the shock cord to prevent the cord from fraying.
- Slide one of the two pole end tips onto the the new shock cord and tie the shock cord off with an overhand knot.
- From there, begin sliding your pole segments on the new shock cord. Be sure that you install the pole segments with the correct orientation, being mindful of the metal inserts, so that your system fits together cohesively. Use the clamp to hold the cord in place, making it easier to slide on the pole segments.
- Once all of the pole segments are installed, slide on the second pole end tip and tie off the shock cord again. Your shock cord should be a little taut, but not overly taut. If you can pull on your poles and they "snap" together on their own, you've done it right! Installing the shock cord too tight, or with too much stretch, can shorten the life of the shock cord.