How to easily open an RV awning for beginners.

Enjoying an RV camping trip and wanting to make the most of your outdoor relaxation space? An awning is the perfect solution to create ideal shade for resting, eating, or chatting with family and friends. However, if you don't know how to properly open your RV awning , don't worry!

In this article, Tiptory will provide detailed step-by-step instructions to help you easily open your RV awning in just minutes — from loosening the strut knobs to using the awning opener correctly.

Part 1: How to properly remove RV awning support brackets for beginners

Step 1: How to safely and easily adjust the awning support arms.

• Loosen the knob on the awning support arm:
  Each awning support arm has a black knob on the back. Loosen both knobs so the support arms can be moved.
  Note: Do not unscrew the knob completely.

• When traveling:
  Make sure these knobs are tightened securely to prevent them from loosening or falling off while the vehicle is in motion.

Step 2: How to unlock the awning support arms before use

• Unlock the safety latches on the two awning support arms:
  Locate the locking tabs on the support arms. These are the parts that hold the two support arms securely together during movement.

• How to open:
  Gently squeeze the locking pins with your hands. When you hear a "click," it means the lock has been opened correctly.

• Please note the following for some models:
  Some awnings require you to flip a lock lever to open them. Please check carefully according to the type of awning you are using.

Step 3: Move the awning lever to the open position.

• Identify the lever (ratchet mechanism):
  This lever is located at the top of the awning near the front of the RV and controls the direction in which the awning retracts.

• How to switch to the open mode:
  Use the awning rod to move the lever to the "Open" position. The lever is usually labeled "Open" and "Close" for easy identification.

• Some notes:
  Some RV models have an automatic mechanism – you just slide the lever on the support arm and the cover opens automatically. Check what type of cover your vehicle has.

Part 2: A guide to properly securing your RV awning in minutes.

Step 1: How to easily pull out the awning

• Attach the pull cord using the awning pole:
  Use the included stick to hook onto the black rope located in the middle of the awning edge.

• Pull back the awning:
  Use the stick to pull the cord straight towards you so the awning begins to unfold. Then, you can use your hands to pull the cord until the awning is fully open.

• Tip:
  Pull gently and smoothly to avoid the awning getting stuck or misaligned.

Step 2: How to fold and securely lock the awning support arms

• Slide the inner support arm onto the outer support arm:
  Push the inner support (also called the crossbar) up onto the outer support until it clicks into place.

• Support handle lock:
  When the support arm is pushed all the way in, you will hear a "click" sound indicating that it is securely locked.

• Note:
  If the knobs on the support arm are loosened just enough, the support arm will be more prone to slipping.

• Maintenance:
  To keep your grip smooth, you can spray some WD-40 on the joints.

Step 3: Secure the awning support arms to ensure the fabric is taut.

• Tighten the handle knob:
  Tighten the black knobs on each support arm that you loosened earlier.

• Pull the support arm to tighten the fabric:
  Gently press down on the support to tighten the awning fabric.

• Fixed lock:
  While keeping the fabric taut, tighten the knob to secure the support arm and prevent the fabric from sagging.

• Note:
  Make sure to tighten both sides evenly so the awning is balanced and stable.

Step 4: How to raise the awning to the correct safe height

• Use the handles on each support arm:
  Lift the handle on the support arm to unlock and raise the awning.

• Lift evenly on both sides:
  If you're doing it alone, lift one side at a time, slowly. If you have someone to help, you can lift both sides simultaneously.

• Automatic lock:
  When you release the handle, the awning will automatically lock in the new position.

• Note:
  Make sure the awning is raised high enough so it doesn't block the doorway.

Author: Jason Shackelford .