3 Easy Steps to Manually Extend Solara Awning

Are you a proud owner of a Solara awning, enjoying the shade and comfort it brings to your outdoor space? While these awnings are designed to provide effortless motorized operation, there may come a time when you need to manually extend or retract your awning due to power outages or other circumstances. This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to manually extend a Solara awning. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have your awning extended in no time.

Before embarking on the manual extension process, ensure that the awning is properly disengaged from any locks or latches. Locate the manual override cord, typically stored in a small compartment on the awning’s frame. Gently pull the cord to disengage the gearbox, allowing the awning to move freely. Next, identify the crank handle, usually attached to the awning’s roller tube. Insert the crank handle into the designated socket and begin cranking in a clockwise direction to extend the awning.

As you crank, the awning will gradually extend outward. Continue cranking until the desired extension is achieved. Once the awning is fully extended, secure it in place by re-engaging the locks or latches. This will prevent the awning from retracting accidentally due to wind or other external forces. Remember to store the crank handle securely for future use. By following these steps, you can confidently manually extend your Solara awning whenever necessary, ensuring continued enjoyment of your shaded outdoor space.

Preparing the Awning

Before extending your Solara awning manually, it’s crucial to ensure that it’s fully prepared. Here are the key preparation steps to follow:

### Checking the Area

Clear the area under and around the awning of any obstacles, such as furniture, toys, or branches, to avoid potential damage or injury.

### Inspecting the Awning

Thoroughly inspect the awning fabric, frame, and components for any signs of damage, wear, or loose parts. If you notice any issues, it’s advisable to seek professional assistance before attempting to extend the awning manually.

### Lubricating Moving Parts

To ensure smooth operation, apply a light coat of lubricant to the moving parts of the awning, including the hinges, joints, and guide rails. This helps prevent binding and excessive friction.

### Preparing the Awning

Once the awning is properly prepared, you can proceed to extend it manually. Here are the steps to follow:

### Extending the Awning

Locate the crank handle and position it in the appropriate socket on the awning frame. Turn the crank handle clockwise to gradually extend the awning. Keep an eye on the fabric tension and make sure it’s evenly distributed across the entire awning.

### Locking the Awning in Place

Once the awning is fully extended, lock it in place by engaging the locking mechanism. This typically involves turning a knob or lever.

### Table: Recommended Lubricants for Solara Awning Components

Locating the Manual Override System

If your Solara awning’s motor fails or there is a power outage, you can still operate the awning manually using the manual override system. This system is typically located at one end of the awning tube, either inside or outside the housing. Look for a small, square or round access panel that can be removed to reveal the manual override mechanism.

Inside the Housing

1. To access the manual override system from inside the housing, locate the small access panel at one end of the awning tube. This panel is usually held in place by a few screws or clips. Carefully remove the panel to reveal the manual override mechanism. 2. Locate the manual override shaft or crank. This is typically a small, round shaft with a crank handle attached. 3. Turn the crank handle to raise or lower the awning manually. Rotate the handle clockwise to raise the awning and counterclockwise to lower it.

Outside the Housing

1. If the manual override system is located outside the housing, look for a small, access panel or door at the end of the awning tube. Remove the panel or door to reveal the override mechanism. 2. Locate the manual override crank or lever. This is usually a long, metal crank or lever that is attached to a gear. 3. Turn the crank or lever to raise or lower the awning manually. Turn the crank or lever clockwise to raise the awning and counterclockwise to lower it.

Engaging the Manual Override

In the event of a power failure or another scenario where the electric motor is disabled, you can manually extend the awning using the override mechanism. To engage the manual override, follow these steps:

1. Locate the manual override gearbox on the awning header tube. It is typically a small, square or rectangular box with a crank handle.
2. Insert the crank handle into the gearbox and turn it clockwise to disengage the motor and engage the manual override.
3. Once the motor is disengaged, you can manually extend the awning by turning the crank handle. Make sure to hold the awning fabric firmly as you extend it to ensure that it does not sag or bunch up.

Tips for Manually Extending the Awning

*

If the awning is particularly large or heavy, you may need assistance to manually extend it.

*

Be sure to keep the awning fabric taut as you extend it to prevent it from flapping in the wind or getting caught on obstacles.

*

Once the awning is fully extended, remember to retract it using the same manual override procedure.

Extending the Awning Canopy

To manually extend the awning canopy, follow these steps:

1. Unlock the awning by pulling the release latch located on the side of the awning case.
2. Extend the awning arms by pulling them out to the desired length.
3. Lock the arms in place by pushing them back into the awning case until they click into place.
4. Unfold the canopy by pulling it down and locking it into place using the hook and loop straps provided.

Adjusting the Canopy Angle and Tension

Once the canopy is extended, you can adjust its angle and tension to suit your needs.