How to Wind an RV Awning
The awning on your RV can be used to create shade during a sunny day and lower the temperature inside the RV in the summer heat. It can also shelter you from the rain during a downpour or create extra living space with the addition of a screened room. Proper use of your awning can provide a more enjoyable camping experience, but it may require a little practice to learn how to operate. Precautions should be taken to avoid possible damage from high winds or heavy rains.
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Instructions
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Pulling Out the Awning
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1
Locate the travel lock on the side of the awning arms. There are two types of travel locks. Squeeze the release tabs or push the lock to release it, depending upon which model awning your RV has.
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2
Loosen the rafter knobs. They are located on the back of the awning arms. Vibrations, during travel, can loosen them, causing them to fall out. They should be tightly secured when the awning is retracted.
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3
Switch the rachet mechanism to the "Out" position using the awning rod. The switch is located on the end of the awning near the top.
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4
Slide the end of the awning hook into the pull strap and gently pull. The awning should roll out easily. If you feel tension, check to make sure the rachet mechanism is in the correct position. The door of the RV should not be opened at this time to prevent cuts or tears in the fabric.
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5
Slide the rafters up to the top of the awning arms. The rafters should slide quite easily if the rafter knobs are properly loosened. Friction can be reduced by occasionally applying a silicone spray.
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6
Lock the rafters into position and tighten the rafter knobs on both rafters to secure them in the correct position.
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7
Lift the handle releases on the awning arms to release the locks and slowly raise the awning to the desired height. Release the lever to lock the awning into place. You may wish to leave the end of the awning farthest from the door slightly lower than the other end to prevent water from pooling on the awning in the event of rain.
Retracting the Awning
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8
Lift the handle releases and lower the arms to their resting position.
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9
Loosen the rafter knobs and release the rafter catches. Slide the rafters down the arms into their resting position.
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10
Hold the pull strap firmly while switching the ratchet mechanism to the "In" position. This will prevent the awning from rolling up and forcefully striking the side of the RV. It will also prevent the strap from being rolled up inside the awning.
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11
Slide the end of the awning hook into the pull strap and slowly roll in the awning. Remove the awning hook from the strap.
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12
Place the handle releases in their locked position, secure the travel locks and tighten the rafter knobs to prevent movement of the arms and rafters during travel.
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