RV Repair: star craft camper, bench seat, broken tooth

Question
i have a1999 starcraft hardtop camper when i go to put the top up the crank will not hold just drops and the crank spins downwhat is the problem it will not hold its position

Answer
The crank actually part of a brake system.  It is possible the brake system is broken due to over cranking or wear.  You can access these parts by going under the booth/bench seat in the front of the camper, and removing the wood step you use when you got into the front bed.  It may also have a broken tooth on the crank catch!  It also may be stuck and need WD-40.  

If it works good, you will hear the cranking/ratchet sound when lifting, and when you go to lower it, you will feel a resistance at first, then it will go.  That resistance is the brake system releasing on the cranking lift system.