Otter 1200 XT Lodge extending poles difficult

Guys
I just want to check with others that have a Lodge XT1200. When you are setting up do you “fight” to extend the poles till they click and lock in place? I realize that the thicker insulated fabric will offer some resistance when setting the poles. Im on my 3rd season and it is not getting any easier. I love the shack but it is a work out extending the poles to the first click.

They glide just fine it is just getting to that last 1/4″ to 1/2″ to set the poles and hear the click.

Your thoughts please
Bob

Yes, I’m experiencing the same thing. I just bought it a couple of months ago, but have had it out about two dozen times already. It varies with the temperature, humidity, etc., I think. Sometimes it’s a breeze to extend them, other times it’s a bear. Other than that, I absolutely love the Lodge. Are you making sure that all of the fabric is free and clear from being pinched or stuffed in between poles, etc? I found that helped a little.

I found that it helps to loosen the Velcro around and he poles. Also WD-40 the poles. Make sure the inside skirt isn’t caught on the poles where they pivit. When I extend them I start from the back before I flip it up. Leave the top down and pull each one straight back. They should lock in.

Bob,

It’s actually good to have the canvas as tight as possible once set up to avoid wind flap, but if they are just too tight there are a few things you can try. As mentioned already, the first step should always be to loosen the velcro straps around each of the poles, even on the roof. If that doesn’t help enough the next step would be to remove the plastic strips holding the canvas to the sled itself and try to get even 1/4 to 1/2″ of additional canvas which should solve your problem. If those two steps don’t fix your problem the final step is to remove the poles from the section of frame that you are having difficulty fully extending, shorten it by 1/2″ at the bottom of the pole(s) where it attached to your sled bracket, and then redrill the bolt mounting hole.

Will

I have the cottage xp pro and noticed the same thing getting the poles to click in. I loosened the Velcro straps and that really helped. Had trouble getting the top wind poles in also but afterwards loosening the Velcro, that helped. After I use for awhile might try to tighten the Velcro again.

I have the same thing. I just extend them, then at the end give a slight jerk and they lock right in. I do not get abusive but use a firm tug that last 1/2 inch!