We've operated our awning twice since we had our trailer in March. First time we had assistance. The second we manage to do it ourselves but took a while. Does anyone know where I can find a video that shows how to properly operate an awning? Thank you in advance.
Did you buy from a dealer? I'd make another stop at the shop, ask for another demonstration, and have DW video tape it.
If you bought it from someone privately...and they won't/can't show you again, try finding another TT or MH owner in your area (a neighbor?)....we're a friendly group, I'm sure they wouldn't mind showing you how to operate one......or go to a campground in your area and ask someone......again, video tape or take notes. Most all awnings are the same (with exception of the power awnings), so someone showing you how their's works should help you too!!
It's not hard, but it is easy to get overwhelmed when you are looking at how EVERYTHING works for the first time.
Good luck
DH Bill / DW Claudia / DD Jenn / DS Chris The Paps! Sophie, Abby, Brandy, Kahlie and Annie
2000 Winnebago "Minnie" 31C, Ford V-10
Purchased April Fools Day, 2008 The Pets
Most likely your awning is typical
1. Loosen the black knobs about eye level on the back side of the awning vertical arms.
2. Twist the small latch that keeps the awning arms tucked in close to the RV.
3. With the awning rod, pull the latch at the front end of the awning roller down completely.
4. With the awning rod, insert it into the loop of the 1 1/2" wide strap that should be visible near the center of the awning. (from front to back)
5. Pull it and the awning should start to unroll and keep pulling until its completely unrolled.
6. Take the smaller square post and move it to the far outside (roller side) until it stops. Then tighen the black knobs that you loosened in step one.
7. Do the same with the other on square post.
8. Release the handle on the big arm and pull the awning out of the arm to the desired level.
9. DO the same on the other big arm.
10. Its a good idea to "Not" have both arms at the same height (length). This allows rain water to drain better and not form a puddle with will destroy the awning if not allowed to drain.
If it gets windy, or even looks like wind, rollit back up.
hershey - albuquerque, nm Someday Finally Got Here
My wife does all the driving - I just get to hold the steering wheel.
Expedition - Suzuki Grand Viagra
My awning intimidated me too for the first few trips. I got to where I'd open and close it a couple of times a day, just for the practice. Once you get used to it, it's not that hard. Just make sure you keep the same routine all the time, so you don't miss anything.
Bill & Terry
Scooter, "The Guard Dog"
2007 Sea Breeze 1321 Ford F-53 (but we call her "LUCY")
2007 Ford Escape in tow
"No exercise is better for the human heart than bending down to lift up another person." Tim Russert - RIP
Remember back when they didn't even have awnings on RV's? I do. These new awnings are a no brainer to operate compared to the first ones out! In 1958 you had to store the canvas in the trailer, unroll it and install it in the TT's rail, being careful not to rip the canvas (yes, it was canvas, not the newer, much lighter fabrics we now have. Then you had to thread the supports through the pocket and compress the springs while you put the ends into the holes in the support. Oh yes, you had to store the poles and hardware someplace too. Then you had to stake everything down.
Now you undo a couple screws and pull out, move two arms to where they lock into place. Then, if you want you can unhook the lower arms and stake them down. Or you could just get an all electric unit and push a button!
Deen - Vancouver, WA
'02 Dutch Star 4090 (41+', triple slide)
435/1200 ISC Cummins/Banks PowerPak
'08 Honda Civic/dolly
'05 Honda Odyssey/dolly
NRA Benefactor Life Member
FMCA f47302s, Life Member: Good Sam, Newmar DP Owners Group
51st yr of RV'ing
I had a guy at a CG help me one day. he was patient, and I wrote down everything he did. Before that I had had help. Today it is not a problem, and can be done quickly. It just takes practice. My problem, I'm very short, and the awning on my trailer is mounted very high. I have to use a step ladder to reach everything.
Your concern is very real. I never did have a problem getting the darn thing down. My problem was always getting it back up. I would forget something and then have to put it all back and start over. Finally I quit doing the guy stuff and read the instructions and followed them.
Now days, it is as easy as plugging in to power, water, and sewer when available.
At first, if at a camp ground, don't be afraid to ask another camper. We love helping others with the problems we have already had before.
To answer your original question for a video: RV Education 101 has very good videos. Search and find the one you need. These videos are designed with folks just like you in mind.
They are very nice folks so if you can't find what you want, don't hesitate to call, they will get you what you want and need.
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