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Hi Artm, Sorry, I'm not going to tell you how to do this here as it IS dangerous if you aren't familiar with the procedure. Just to answer your question as to are the springs loaded, YES! Try contacting the awning manufacturer for instructions if you have to do it yourself, otherwise I'd leave it to an RV Tech or someone who has done it in the past to help. Also see awning spring thread dated 7-7-09 for backup to what I just wrote. Good luck.
It is dangerous as the springs are under a load, but it's not difficult to do if you have help and take your time. I have 4 care free awnings and just got done replacing them all. 400 bucks in material and not a dime in labor. Savings of over 1600.00!! First you need to find out what kind of awning you have. look on the awning end(rolled out) my part number was on the valance. got the original matching color scheme. I spoke with care free tech support and they walked me through the whole thing. Sent me new instructions by fax. Very helpful. more so than the local dealer was. He wanted $90.00/hr and said a rough estimate was at least 2 hours per window and 3-4 for the patio.
You can do it just take your time and follow the instructions.. read them multiple times before you start.