Agree with TampaJohn. Definitely easier to lift, and still not difficult to close. I had visions of jumping up and down on the latch, but not remotely necessary.
Procedure I used to remove the whole thing:
1. Open awning enough to expose the eight screws holding the side.
2. Remove those eight screws.
3. Remove eight screws on both brackets on top. Waited for unit to at least look like it wanted to fall. It was stuck tight.
4. Pried up on two top brackets. Popped off fairly quickly. Awning still on tight. Thought there must be more brackets or screws because I couldn't budge it.
5. Had helper hold one end apply some outward pressure as I pried through the caulk, dirt, tape, adhesive? Took a bit of work of certainly wasn't close to breaking anything.
6. My awning eventually dropped down and off, but not until I was at the last couple of feet. (Obviously because helper was holding the other end up.)
7. Now I have 16 open holes. I'm currently heading out to get Eternabond DoubleStick for filling RV screw holes. Instructions here:
May put some white caulk on top afterwards for the heck of it.
8. Remove the old caulk and tape.
Fully reversible when it comes time to sell...
Just passing along the info FWIW...
Pat
Edit: My front shell lifts up evenly as long as I lift right of center.