By Russ and Tiña De Maris
A squeaky slideout can drive any RVer to distraction. There’s just something jarring to the nerves about this noise. Perhaps it’s the same affliction that hits us when fingernails are drawn across a chalkboard. What’s to be done to exorcise those squeaks?
First, with your slideout extended take a close look at the slideout support arms. If you spot any “wear marks” (like those pointed out by the arrow in the photo), it’s a good indication of a primary source of nasty noise.
What to use for a squeaky slideout?
Grab a can of spray-on dry lube. Shoot the wear marks thoroughly, then using a clean, dry cloth, wipe down the excess. Dry lube sprays are preferable to “wet” lubes as they are less likely to attract dust and dirt. You’ll also find it useful to shoot the “teeth” on your slideout mechanism, if you have any.
Other tricks for a squeaky slideout include ensuring that the squeak doesn’t emanate from contact between the slideout seal and the sidewall of the slide. With the slide extended, wash and dry the sidewalls, then apply the appropriate wax for the wall surface.
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It would be a good idea to clean the area with brake cleaner prior to using the lube.
Thank you, Russ and Tina! We have been warned in the documentation of both RVs (different manufacturers) to not wax the sides of our slideouts because it would lessen the chances of the slide-out seals flipping when the slide is extended or retracted. Have a great week and safe travels! 🙂
There are two ‘dry lubes’ One is silicone based and the other PTFE (think powdered teflon). 3-in-One* sells the silicone product for slide room lubrication and the PTFE for windows. Dustin is promoting Camco’s product. *3-in-One is owned by WD-40 and the same products are also sold under the WD-40 Specialty Lube label.