It's strange, because it fits nice and tight in the middle, but both ends have about a 1/4" gap.....same gap on both ends. Any thoughts?
Yes Trudy, I do have a thought about that.
Open the awning less than an inch. Get on a step ladder and "sight" down the outer frame (the frame that is now away from the PC, the metal that holds the end of the awning material). Does it have a slight bow in it? If so, which way does it bow?
Just maybe yours has an excessive reverse bow, possibly formed from not using the center support often enough. If that is so, see if you can reverse the bow the other way, (ends closer to PC, center away). It might be as easy as setting up your awning, install the center support and tighten up the awning. The center support will hold the center out while the ends pull the frame in slightly. If that does not yield the desired results, maybe adding slight extra pressure by two people, one on each end to encourage a gentile bow to form again. Obviously caution and gentileness is critical, avoiding deforamtion. You don't want much of a bow. Just a tad bit. I would start by simply straightening the frame. No bow at all. If it's better but not enough, then do a tiny bit more.
It's just a thought, not speaking from actual experience dealing with such a problem..
Adding: Read my next post below...................................................................
