[RipNC]

Having replaced the arm assembly closest to our door on the forward awning, I don't believe there is any sprinp tension on or within the awning shaft. I know the slide toppers have spring tension. The awnings deploy under pressure from the gas struts which also tension the awning as it is retracted.

Edit: I believe we're all talking powered awnings here...

BTW the arm was covered by warranty but I did the install beause it took less time than getting the rig ready to move, much less the hours of driving, appointments and screw-ups.