Easy Fix: Tent Pole Shock Cord Needs Replacing

Article by NEMO

Easy Fix: Tent Pole Shock Cord Needs Replacing

All NEMO products are covered by our Lifetime Warranty and we’re happy to help repair your gear, but when the fresh air’s calling, sometimes you just can’t wait — that’s where this easy DIY fix comes in.

 

Shock cords may stretch out over time or snap, but they can easily be swapped with new cord. Please reach out to our Customer Service team for replacement cord, or shock cord can be purchased at multiple online retailers, like Seattle Fabrics. (Look for 1/8 in thickness.) 

 

Tools Needed for Replacing Shock Cord

Tools & Materials Needed:  

  • Replacement shock cord 
  • Scissors 
  • Clamp (optional) 

 

The Fix: 

Removing Old, Damaged Shock Cord

1. Lay poles out on a flat surface and unscrew the tip of the pole that has shock cord in need of replacing. Pull out the pole tip and cut the shock cord.


2. Unscrew the other end of the pole and pull out the old shock cord.

Measure Length of Replacement Cord
3. Measure enough shock cord to match the length of the pole when the shock cord is slack.

 

Tie New Shock Cord to Pole Tip
4. Pull three inches of shock cord through the hook of the pole tip’s screwed end and tie the cord back onto itself. (Pull the knot super tight to minimize slipping.)

 

Feeding New Shock Cord Through Pole Segments
5. Feed the shock cord through the pole. Since you’ve tied the knot, the cord will now be shorter than the length of the pole and will not be visible at the other end when slack. Remove the last segment of the pole to reveal the end of the shock cord.


6. Stretch the shock cord as far as possible and clamp or hold the cord so it remains long enough to feed through the remaining pole segment.

 


7. Pull three inches of the end of the shock cord through the other pole tip and tie the shock cord back onto itself. (Pull the knot super tight to minimize slipping.)


8. Screw the tips back in, release the clamp, and test to make sure the pole folds down and assembles smoothly. 

Still need help? Contact us!