Remove any travel covers from the awning. Release the travel locks on the RV awning arms. These locks are found at either end of the awning unit. They are used to secure the awning during travel. Most travel locks are manually set and released.
Determine if the unit is operated manually or electrically. For a manual unit, make sure the cam is set to the roll-down position. The cam is located on both sides of the awning unit. On older units both cams must be set. Electrical units set the cam automatically. Usually electrical awnings are operated by a switch located on the main control panel or by a remote control.
Use the cranking arm to open the awning on a manual unit. Turn the level (crank) counterclockwise to open and clockwise to close. Electrical units will have an open and close option on the switch or remote. Make sure the RV is running on either electrical hookup or battery power. Use the remote or indoor switch to open or close the awning.
Secure the awning in place by locking the cams in a manual system. Make sure the awning arms are locked in place. Electrical systems usually lock automatically.
Remove all dirt and debris from the fabric before closing the awning. On manual systems, release the locking mechanisms and set the cam to roll down. Use the crank to close the awning by turning it clockwise. For electrical systems, press the close button on the remote or set the indoor switch to close.
Set the cams to the locking position on a manual system. Manually engage the travel locks. If the system is electrical, make sure that the awning has locked in place if it is automatic. Otherwise manually set the travel locks by moving the arms to the travel position. Some awnings come with a travel cover. Replace this before traveling with the unit.
