Q&A for How to Open an RV Awning

They are usually located in the long compartment, grey in color, available at any RV supplier. you can also use a hockey stick with a bent nail in a pinch.

Unroll the tent and look for straps. Then redo the rolling step correctly. Change the straps if they're worn or torn.

There should be a button on the inside of your RV. Use your RV's manual to research whether or not they're motorized. The manual should be available online if you cannot find the hard copy.

There will be a lock on the top of the awning that needs to be pulled toward you. Then there are two screws and latches on each side of the awning that need to be loosened. After that, pull on the black strap and the awning will fold out. Then tighten the latches that you loosened.

Consider having a professional look at it because it is probably under spring pressure and an injury could occur if the spring is released improperly. Or, have another adult hold the awning up with slight pressure and hopefully the spring will find a neutral position and release itself.

Most are spring loaded and need to be slightly reversed to release at each cog or some have a position on the lever control that will let it unwind all the way to the end.

It's not recommended after it is detached from vehicle but on a rare occasion it can be done if all points of contact on the ground are secure and blocked properly. Also, I recommend that all persons be evacuated from inside the trailer and a safe distance from the trailer on the outside.

The little black thing you are talking about is a release to undo. However, the awning is locked to the vehicle or structure. I would suggest if you do not have your owner's manual to look up how to fix you problem, that you get in contact with the manufacturer of the awning for help. You may also search your surrounding area for someone who works on RVs.

You must look in your owner's manual and it will instruct you what to do. If you do not have a owner's manual. then you can get in touch with the manufacturer for help. Also, you may find an RV mechanic at a local garage to help with that.

Try to apply pressure inward on the rail and hope if the spring is loaded, it will find a neutral position and unlock. If this doesn't work, you may need to seek a professional, probably at your local RV dealership.

There is a way to slightly reverse the ratchet mechanism to release the handle and then it can be placed in the desired position. If this is not possible, then an extra jack may be used to jack up the vehicle high enough to fix the the original ratchet jack.

Depending on the age and condition of your awning, it may be time to replace it. But if you are determined to fix it, then you must find the manufacturer or aftermarket company who sells parts and possibly have a repair man available to assist.

Search in your area for a tent and awning manufacturer and if you cannot find one, then search for your local RV dealer.

The support bar should be used anytime the RV is being moved or used in anyway, assuming it is for safety or extra support of weight. My theory is the manufacturer installed it to be used.