Yep, if you search on Oakland XL you will find many threads about how tight the fit is on the 2010 model. If you follow the examples given about you will find it easier to erect.
We have got much better at it now (after about 4/5 times) and get the tent up (and pegged in the corners) in 10 mins.
I've seen pictures of other Oakland XL's and they all have the one side slightly higher than the other, it is a definite 'design feature'
Still we love the tent, so not all bad
Don't forget to leave a review of all tents you've used, for a chance to win fantastic prizes
I ve pitched my 2011 XL solo 5 times now and looked and practiced the Gary Cross method. If you find this a problem a slight variation which makes it easier is
1. peg out the 4 corners leaving the back 2 slack and then take off the front 2 leaving the pegs in the ground.
2. Insert one of the the main poles through the top and attach the legs as per Gary s recommendation. Attach the pins. You will need to pull the tent material towards the back to get the pins in.
3. Then pull one of the front corner loops over the peg which lifts up the tent, repeat for the other front corner.
4. Insert the other main pole once the tent is standing.
The last time I did this in record time some montana 6 campers came over to see how I had done it so quick.
Yep yet another fast pitcher, once you have done it a few times it just gets quicker. Don't be put off this tent as others have pitching is easy once you get the hang of it.
Anyone got any good advice on putting up the Oakland XL front extension? It took us longer than the main tent! (First time though it has to be said.)
Should you attach it to the main tent first, then put the poles in? Also we found that the front corner guy rope of the main tent was in the way of the extension, so we had to take this off which left the front a little sloppy.
Although delighted with the whole setup, the Front extension didn't quite seem to sit right with the main tent.
Advice and photos please :-)
Don't forget to leave a review of all tents you've used, for a chance to win fantastic prizes
I have just posted my photos to the Tent Showcase. Not many people so far using the Front Extension, but it worked brilliantly for us freeing up indoor space completely for our young children to play