It's kind of hard to explain it step by step, but here are a couple of points...
Putting it up...
1) I use the butt of my hand to knock the support bars into place.
2) I do the stern side first.
3) When doing the bow side, you need to put all your weight to pull it down. It's meant to be very taught.
Taking it down.
1) I do the Bow end first.
2) Knock it with the butt of your hand to release the supports.
3) Be careful...it can get away from you as you move it to the rear position...I have a bruise to prove it!
4) Watch your fingers! That was another time! And I've only had the boat for 2 weeks!
This is what I've done since we got the boat a couple weeks ago, so I'm no expert, but it seems to work.
-Jason