While a slide can be a great way to maximize space in an RV, repairs can be challenging and expensive.
Some owners are happy to hand over their hard-earned money to a shop and let them take over. However, there are a few issues that you can fix on your own.
Today, we’ll walk you through some of the most common RV slide repairs you can experience during your adventures.
Let’s get started!
About RV Slides
RV slides, or slide-outs, are the box-like structures you see extending from a camper. Manufacturers use these to increase the living space inside the frame when parked. They can produce a more spacious and comfortable environment for you and your loved ones.
The number varies and significantly depends on the unit’s floor plan. Some of the most spacious feature opposing slide-outs, adding 60 to 80 square feet of usable space. If you’re a family stuck inside when the weather isn’t cooperating, you’ll appreciate every inch you can get.
Manufacturers will use a variety of mechanisms to these structures in and out. Some of the most common options use electric motors. These utilize the camper’s 12-volt battery to bring them in and out. They include rack and pinion, cable, Schwintek, and power gear systems.
If you have a large vehicle with a hydraulic line, there’s a chance that it powers your setup. These are typically only used on the biggest rigs with kitchens or living rooms. Unfortunately, these are also the most complex and difficult to service.
When shopping for an RV with slides, consider what’s accessible when they’re in the retracted position. You may enjoy accessing your bedroom, bathroom, and refrigerator without having to open or close anything.
3 Common RV Slide Problems and Repairs
It might surprise you how easy it is to repair some RV slide issues. You can fix much more than you think with the right tools and access to YouTube or online forums. However, if you jump into a project that’s beyond your skills or expertise, you could do more harm than good. Home fixes could cost you more money in the long run.
To avoid this, sometimes it’s best to hire a professional. You can haul your rig to their shop or find a mobile technician who will come wherever you’ve parked your camper. Hiring someone to do the work for you is typically more expensive.
What side do you land on? CONTROVERSY: Leveling Your RV With Slides Out or In?
#1 Electric Motor or Power Supply Problem
One of the most common RV slide repairs that owners encounter involves the electric motor or a power supply. You’ll typically discover this when you try to extend or retract them, and nothing happens. Unfortunately, pinpointing the issue can be challenging with so many different components.
It could be a combination of faulty controls, motors, or pumps. The first thing to check is that your 12-volt system has power. Unfortunately, if you’ve drained the battery bank, you must manually open or close them. However, we’ll share more about this process and how to complete it later.
You should also know that these motors don’t last forever. While they typically last ten or so years, they can throw in the towel early. If that’s the case, you’ll need to order a new one and swap it out for a new one. Depending on the location of the motor, it’s typically a much easier task than you might think.
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#2 Hydraulic System Failure
Hydraulic systems are great, but only when they work. We’ve seen and heard many owners experiencing pump failures, leaks, and numerous other issues. When your hydraulics stop working, the first thing to check is the hydraulic reservoir.
The amount of fluid in the reservoir will change depending on how you use your rig. If your slides and jacks are out, there likely won’t be much in there. However, when hitched up with everything closed, the tank should be nearly full. If you see anything different, you know you’ve got a situation.
An empty reservoir could be a sign that you have a leak somewhere in your hydraulic tubing. You’ll need to follow all the lines and look for any spots where fluid is getting out.
These typically aren’t DIY repairs because they can be tricky and extremely dangerous. Leave these to a professional so they get done right the first time, and you keep all your digits.
#3 RV Slide Will Not Move When Motor Runs
Another tricky RV slide repair is if the motor runs but nothing moves. This could result from several things, including gear jamming, misalignment, a broken cable, or a foreign object getting stuck. Typically, your best bet is to stop trying to open or close it and find the cause. Continuing to push buttons or activate the system could lead to more severe damage.
We strongly recommend ensuring your slide’s roof is clean whenever you operate it. Any objects that land on top can cause damage, a jam, or misalignment. Those with slide toppers don’t have to worry about items landing on their rig while using it.
Do you know: Can You Stand on Your RV Slide?
How to Manually Operate an RV Slide While Waiting for Repairs
While you wait for your RV slide repair, you may need to open or close them. Luckily, most of these have manual options that allow you to operate them the old-fashioned way. Will it be easier? Absolutely not. However, you’ll still be able to use your rig and not have to cancel your trips.
Unfortunately, these vary considerably based on the mechanism type and your rig. Some use jack–like systems that you crank to operate them. However, others will require you to use a sharp object to get the mechanism to release. You’ll then have to use brute force to open and close the slide.
As we said, this isn’t easy and can be physically demanding. However, it beats canceling your plans and not going out for an adventure with your loved ones. Think on the positive side. At least you’ll get in an arm workout while you’re camping.
Best Ways to Avoid RV Slide Repairs
The best way to avoid dealing with RV slide repairs is by doing routine maintenance. This checklist includes cleaning and lubricating all of the moving parts. How often you’ll need to do these depends on where you use your rig. However, we recommend giving them a good inspection every month or so.
Another way you can take care of your RV slides and avoid repairs is by watching the weight you place on them. Overloading them can cause increased wear and tear on the components and lead to issues. The same is true for opening and closing them on unlevel surfaces. Ensuring your rig is as level as possible when operating them is always a good idea.
Proper Maintenance Can Save You Money On RV Slide Repairs
RV slide repairs can be frustrating and annoying. However, they’re just one of the many challenges of owning a recreational vehicle. Take them in stride. Don’t let them ruin your trip or cause you to throw in the towel. Whether you hire a professional or do it yourself, you’ll be back on the road soon.
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