If you have an older model pop up camper, chances are it doesn’t come equipped with a crank to help you open it. Fortunately, there are still ways that you can open your pop up camper without a crank. In this guide, we’ll show you how to do just that with minimal effort and hassle.
How to open pop-up camper without crank
Step 1: Get The Right Tools
The tools needed to open your pop up camper without a crank will vary based on the specific make and model of your RV. However, some general items that may be required include large screwdrivers or pry bars, adjustable wrenches, hammers and chain hoists. For optimal performance, it would be best to use an aluminum or stainless steel pipe with a wall thickness that is appropriate for your particular application. The notch should also be made carefully so as not to weaken or damage the material in any way. Keep in mind that these materials may also require special coatings or treatments for use in a saltwater environment. It is best to consult with a professional when selecting the appropriate materials and components for your particular application.

Step 2: Disconnect the Locks
Once you have all of the right tools, opening your pop up camper without a crank becomes much simpler. Start by disconnecting all of the locks that keep your camper in place. This could involve unhooking clips or unscrewing screws from inside the pop up camper depending on the model. Make sure to take note of which parts are attached and how they fit together for when it’s time to close your RV back up again.
Step 3: Open The Canvas Sides
Now that everything is unlocked, you can start opening your popup camper without a crank by lifting one side of its canvas walls at a time. This may require some muscle, so it’s a good idea to get a few helping hands if possible. If the canvas walls are too tight or difficult to lift manually, you can use a tool like a chain hoist to help pull them open.
Step 4: Secure The Camper In Place
Once your pop up camper is fully opened and in place, secure it by replacing all of the locks that were disconnected in Step 2. These can either be replaced with the same parts as before (if they have not been damaged) or else new parts bought from an RV store or online retailer.

Tips and tricks
Just because you don’t have a crank doesn’t mean opening your pop up camper has to be difficult. Here are a few tips and tricks that can make the process easier:
- Get help when lifting the canvas walls – they may be difficult to open on your own, so it’s best to get some extra hands involved.
- Invest in an RV cover – this will protect your camper from the elements and make sure everything is kept secure when it’s not in use.
- Lubricate all of the locks with WD-40 before putting them back in place – this will ensure that they remain easy to unlock for future use.
Can you use a cordless drill to raise your pop-up?
Yes, you can use a cordless drill to raise your pop up tent. Before attempting to do this, however, it is important to ensure that the tent poles are securely in place and properly aligned. Once the poles are in place, you will need to locate the screw points on the bottom of the pop up frame spikes and attach an appropriate size power drill bit into your cordless drill. Set your drill to its lowest speed setting and begin drilling at each of these points until they are flush with the ground. This should lift your pop up tent from the ground without causing any damage to its fabric or structure. After lifting your pop up tent off of the ground, it may be necessary to adjust and tighten some of its tension straps for a more secure fit. Once adjusted properly, your pop up tent should be ready for use.
DIY Crank for a Pop Up Trailer
Open the hand crank panel of your pop up camper to gain access its spindle. Use a measuring tape and note down the width—typically square in shape, it may measure anywhere between 1-1/2 inches across. Choose an appropriate socket from your kit that perfectly fits this measurement before attaching it firmly to ratchet’s fixture arm with its perpendicular extension handle adjusted at 90° angle for stability purposes. Rotate clockwise or counterclockwise depending on whether you are trying to raise or lower roof respectively for quick operation!
Can you use Pop-up Camper Lift to raise your pop up

The lift is designed to make the setup and takedown of pop up campers much easier, faster and safer than traditional methods. It works by lifting the camper off the ground with hydraulic power and then lowering it onto stabilizing blocks which are placed underneath. This eliminates the need for manual labor when setting up or taking down a pop up camper, as well as reducing any risk of injury that may be caused by manual lifting. Additionally, lifts can reduce wear and tear on the frame of your pop up camper since heavy items such as mattresses and furnishing do not have to be lifted manually into place.
Pop-up camper lifts are relatively easy to install and use, and they come in a variety of sizes and styles. Before purchasing one, make sure that it is compatible with your particular pop up camper model. Additionally, be sure to read over any provided instructions thoroughly before attempting to lift your camper. This will help ensure a safe and successful setup or takedown of your pop up camper.
And there you have it! You now know how to open your pop up camper without a crank in four easy steps. With a bit of effort and the right tools, you can have your RV set up and ready to go in no time. Enjoy your camping experience!
Ever since I was a kid, I've been fascinated by travel. I inherited this passion from my parents. Since my college years and to this day, I have had a passion for traveling in a motorhome. I am here to share my experiences with you.