has anyone removed their awning? is there a simple way?

It is an easy job, but pinning depends on the make and model. As long as the extend/retract latch is working, to remove you are safe in flipping the latch to extend, pulling it out a few inches and sliding it off. The rear spring will be fine until you get the awning removed, at which time you need to pin it- an A&E sunchaser has nails sideways in to the end cap, most other take cotter pins through the end caps radially.