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The slide on your RV should extend and retract seamlessly and always be ready to use.
Words by Jessica Rider
We have addressed RV slide-out systems in previous Smart RVing columns. However, with frequent use and moving parts, it’s important to understand how the electrical and mechanical components function and what to look for when they malfunction.
I was at a recent RV industry event speaking with suppliers about changes in the designs of RVs and how often manufacturers are adding these systems to their models. It was an interesting conversation. My husband and I are not only consumers who appreciate the four slides on our fifth wheel but we also own a mobile RV repair service and frequently encounter RVers who have problems with their slides.
Some benefits of a slide-out(s) include increased living space with added furniture, appointments, and the real ‘home-like feel’ that they provide. On one trip, we even lived comfortably for a weekend with six adults and four kids thanks to the added space. They make an RV more comfortable but they can be a little problematic as well.
We were recently called to look at a slide on an RV that displayed an error code indicating a loose or faulty connection. Following an inspection, we realized the bottom of the slide was extended 8 cm (3 in) further out than the top.
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Proper slide care is important to ensure you have the space you need during a trip.
It was determined that the rails on the system were not installed properly and turned out to be a recognized error from the manufacturer on the specific model year. Fortunately, it was covered under warranty. Nonetheless, the slide would need to be completely removed to realign the rails and then reinstalled - a very large job.
In most cases, we usually troubleshoot and/or ‘walk’ RVers through the necessary steps to repair their RV slide system when it’s damaged. When an RVer is having a problem, we first ask what type of design they have. The most common is a Schwintek system.
A Schwintek design incorporates rails with what look like teeth on the top and bottom of the slideout room, housing motors typically on either side. One key benefit is the system will indicate an issue via ‘error code blinks’ in the control box (or slide-out controller) that is often located in a storage compartment or other concealed area.
When there’s a problem, a light will blink one to eight times and a certain number of blinks will indicate the precise problem. For example, in this instance, since the controller was blinking eight times, it was signalling a communication error/wiring problem.
In other cases, a slide may get stuck in the extended position and won’t retract. With the Schwintek system, you can unplug the wires from the control box and physically push the slide room in, which unfortunately takes a few strong people to do this. Be sure to reconnect the wires to lock the slide room in place, which prevents it from moving out during travel.
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Having one, two, or three slides provides extra living space for added comfort and to accommodate large groups.
If you experience any problems with your slide(s) keep the following points in mind:
- An electric slide-out motor draws a considerable amount of current and requires a fully charged battery to operate. Plugging into shore power will supply the needed power to prevent overstraining the system.
- Maintain the slide mechanism. The slide rollers and rails (as well as other metal components) need to be occasionally lubricated to resist rust and corrosion. Many specific lubricants are available from Camco or WD-40 available at Canadian Tire or RV dealers/service centres.
- The seals on a slide resist wet weather and pests. Frequently inspect for wear, especially in areas where the seals may become dislodged by the slide’s movement. It’s also a good idea to keep the slide closed when not in use, which also protects the seals, roof, and other components from UV rays and other elements. Slide-out seal treatment products are available.
If you have a slide-out system that operates via a cable (like we do), a visual inspection is important at least every other trip. My husband and I have seen several frayed cables over the years and keep spares in our RV at all times. This is a common issue and it’s best to have a technician replace one for you.
Regular slide maintenance is fairly easy and if you notice anything unusual about its operation and components, have it inspected - and repaired - to avoid any further damage.
Happy Camping!