The invention consists of an automatic lock and tension of a tarpaulin syste m in a safe manner and does not require the intervention of the operator when the system is bei ng engaged, disengaged, opened or closed. This invented automatic mechanism tensions the tarpaulin system exerting always a parallel force with the direction of opening and closing of the tarpaulin system eliminating the internal stresses exerted to the tarpaulin system components. Any misalignment produced due to tolerances is removed from the guide wheels established under the track of the sliding tarpaulin system.
