If you’re getting ready to hit the road and realise you need to fix caravan awning alignment before you go, don’t worry – it’s a common issue with a quick solution. At Adelaide RV, we often help customers resolve awning problems that seem more complicated than they are. The good news? With the right approach, most issues can be sorted in just five minutes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get your awning rolling in the right direction – so you can get back to your adventures without delay.
Why Your Awning May Be Misaligned
Over time, it’s common for a caravan awning to shift out of alignment. The reasons vary – from UV damage shrinking the canvas slightly to strong winds nudging the structure off-centre. One of the most overlooked causes? An off-centre pull strap. If the strap you use to retract the awning isn’t sitting in the middle, it can create uneven pressure and cause alignment issues. We recently encountered this exact issue on a Supreme Territory caravan during a service at Adelaide RV – the rear awning arm wouldn’t close properly due to this common misalignment problem.
How to Fix Caravan Awning Alignment in 5 Steps
Here’s a simple process that takes less than five minutes and requires only basic tools like a drill or socket wrench.
Step 1: Gently extend the awning. Pull the awning out just enough to give yourself access to the inner arm and screws. There’s no need to open it completely – just enough space to work comfortably.
Step 2: Loosen the tech screws. Find the tech screws located on the inner arm. Using your drill or wrench, loosen them slightly (don’t remove them entirely). This will allow the inner arm to slide and reposition.
Step 3: Realign the inner arm. Carefully move the inner arm so it aligns properly within the outer arm. Once you’re satisfied with the positioning, re-tighten the screws to lock the alignment in place.
Step 4: Adjust the pull strap. Before you roll the awning back in, make sure the pull strap is positioned dead centre. This helps prevent one side from rolling faster than the other, which is a key contributor to misalignment.
Step 5: Test the fix. Retract the awning completely and watch how it rolls in. The arms should now line up cleanly, and the canvas should wrap evenly around the roller.
What If It’s Still Not Working?
If your awning still isn’t closing properly, there could be a deeper issue – such as both outer arms having shifted over time. In this case, follow these extra steps: Locate the locking screws securing the awning canvas at the front and rear. Temporarily remove those screws and fully retract the awning. Let the canvas naturally reposition itself. Reinsert and secure the screws once everything lines up. This technique often helps restore factory alignment and may fix caravan awning issues caused by long-term movement or weather exposure.
Keep Your Awning in Top Condition
Regular maintenance can help you avoid future alignment problems. Here are a few simple habits to adopt: always retract your awning during strong winds, store it dry to prevent canvas shrinkage, periodically check the tech screws and strap position, and clean tracks and arms to reduce friction and wear. Taking a few minutes after each trip to inspect your awning can save hours of frustration later.
Need a Hand? We’re Here to Help
If you’re not confident tackling this repair or if your awning is still giving you trouble, you’re always welcome to bring your van into the Adelaide RV Service Centre. Our experienced team can assess the issue and get your awning sorted quickly and professionally – so you can get back to enjoying the open road.
Ready to Roll Again?
Fixing your caravan awning doesn’t have to mean a trip to the workshop – but if it does, we’re here for you. With this easy DIY method, you can stay adventure-ready and avoid delays on the road. Keep following Adelaide RV Hints and Tips for more DIY guides and caravan care advice. Safe travels – and we’ll see you next time!
