Lubricating Slideouts

[otrider]

I remember reading a post not too long ago about lubricating slideouts...can't find it now when I need it, of course!

Can anyone advise me on what type product to use and where to apply it? I have two slides and one is making noise as it rides in. Time to get to it, methinks.

I know there is a library for info like this, but I couldn't find that either.
Thank goodness I have a GPS for when I drive.
Thanks!
_________________
Pam
'06 F250 V10 Alas No More Choc Mousse has gone to it's new home in Port Clinton, Ohio
New Addition to the Family
2010 F350 V10 4x4 430
'99 30' New Vision Ultra

[RV Mech Tech]

otrider- depending on what type of slideout(s) you have, there are basically two areas on them that you can lubricate. The first is all the weather seals that are located all around the peremiter of both the slideout and opening in the RV body. First make sure that all of them are in good shape and fastened securely to where they are mounted. Next there is a special slideout seal lube you can get, but I have always used a clear silicone spray with good results. There are basically two types of seals on RV SOuts: one is the 'wiper" seal that you see from the outside when the slideout is out that just wipes and helps keep the rain out, and the seals that actually do most of the sealing and are usually 'compression' seals (bubble seals) and seal when the slideout is completely in or out. These you can spray the lubricant on both sides to keep them from drying out. The next area to lube is the actual slideout mechanical linkage under the slideout. There are many different types of linkage and depending on the type of slideout, this linkage is not always exposed as in motorized RVs. Usually on tow behind trailers, you can remove the cover underneath and expose the linkage, but on motorized units, only some of the linkage (if any) is exposed. There are different types of gear lubes, sprays, etc. that you can use on this, BUT! if the linkage touches the carpet or floor inside, use only a silicone spray or else your carpets will change color overnight! Some linkages are under the floor and you can use whatever you want, so check to see what type you have first. Also look for some type of teflon pads that the bottom of the SOut rides on. You may have to peel back the wiper seal under the SOut if there to see these pads and they can squeal too if not lubed for a long time. Also check around the slideout for any other contact points that may be causing noise as well. Hope this helps!-

[otrider]

Thanks a bunch. I'll make it a priority as soon as I land. I appreciate the info. Wasn't aware of needing to lube the gaskets around the slide.

I'm pretty sure I can get to the gears when the S-O is extended so I'll approach it from that point.
_________________
Pam
'06 F250 V10 Alas No More Choc Mousse has gone to it's new home in Port Clinton, Ohio
New Addition to the Family
2010 F350 V10 4x4 430
'99 30' New Vision Ultra

[otrider]

I'm in need of a little more info on this subject. Do I need specific RV lube or can I get a generic product from AutoZone or the like (eg: Wal-Mart, etc).

When I got to Ohio the slide worked initially, then I pulled it in a week later to fasten the sewer hoses, then it wouldn't slide back out again!

Am going to lube the slide then try again.

Any and all suggestions appreciated.
_________________
Pam
'06 F250 V10 Alas No More Choc Mousse has gone to it's new home in Port Clinton, Ohio
New Addition to the Family
2010 F350 V10 4x4 430
'99 30' New Vision Ultra

[Motor31]

I found silicone spray in an auto parts store. Just make sure it's just silicone and not a combination of petroleum and silicone as the petroleum will degrade the rubber in the seals.

I use a plain old candle to lube the slide rails on my rig by rubbing it on the rails where I see wear or contact marks. It will do the lubrication without gathering dirt like oil/grease does. I don't put it on any part that may contact the carpeting.

The slide malfunction may not have anything to do with lube. Did you hear a knocking or banging noise when you tried to move it out? If the slide is electric and you don't hear anything at all when you push the button, the mechanism may be broken, have a loose wire, blown fuse or burned out motor. Do you have an alternative method like a crank to get it to move out? If you do and the crank works, then the problem is likely to be electrical.
_________________
Mike, Nancy and the Fuzzies
2005 MS 38 RL3
2001 Volvo MH (HDT)
2004 R1150RT (piggyback)
1996 Jeep Cherokee (toad)

[otrider]

Thanks Mike. You hit the nail on the head. Yes, the manual crank out works and no, the mechanism makes not a sound, as it also makes not a move! I've contacted the slideout manufacturer but they referred me to KZ so that's on my agenda for tonight. The camp manager can't seem to find the inline fuse to check that, so that's the first order of business.

Wish me luck. I've got til mid-January to get this thing fixed, then I move again. I sure don't want to be cranking it in and out in January.

I'll let you know how it goes.
Pam
_________________
Pam
'06 F250 V10 Alas No More Choc Mousse has gone to it's new home in Port Clinton, Ohio
New Addition to the Family
2010 F350 V10 4x4 430
'99 30' New Vision Ultra

[rlraven]

We also had a problem with the super slide on our 5th wheel, it hung up when trying to open it. My husband knew it was the gasket and tried at least 4 different special lubricants and none did the trick. We called a local rv dealer/repair shop and the tech. told him to use Armor-All. Worked like a charm and have no problem since. Good luck!

Robin

[elh3946]

[daytona7]

Ditto on not using Armor-all, even on tires.
One question of spraying the slide gaskets. How do you spray behind the gasket? Do you pull the gasket away from the slide or just spray the outside?

Pam,
If you are heading to Florida in January, I'd suggest bring some nice WARM clothing. We've already had a few nights in the Ocala area in the mid 30s and mid 60s during the day. They even call for low 30s the next few nights.