Best way to clean and lubricate RV slideout rails and gear

Hi, Dave,
I’m looking to purchase a used fifth wheel from an individual. An inspection finds it is in relatively good shape. However, the owner has liberally applied a thick red grease to the slideout’s rack and pinion mechanisms (the geared rails and the cog wheel). My question is, what’s the best way to clean off the grease and prep it for the proper, dry slideout lubrication? —B, 2017 Wildcat 29RLX

Hi, B,
From what I can tell by photos from RV Trader and other used RV websites, the 2017 Wildcat has a Power Gear rack and pinion mechanism similar to this one.

The motor turns the shaft or rod and the gears on each end of the rod rotate and “mesh” with the teeth on the rail that extends and retracts the room.

Most likely the slideout room was making creaking or screeching sounds and the previous owner thought that the high-temperature “red” grease, typically used for bearings, was the best. It may have actually helped initially with the sounds. However, it will not be good in the long run as this type of grease is designed for a sealed application. Otherwise, it will attract dust, dirt, and grit and eventually cause restriction with the gears.

Where to start

I would start by cleaning the grease off the bar teeth and gears using spray brake cleaner. I have used this to clean bearings for years and other greasy components. It cuts the grease extremely well and dries pretty clean by wiping it off with a clean rag. Or I like to use that and compressed air to dry it completely. You can find it on Amazon here.

Once you get the RV slideout track and the gears/bearings clean, Power Gear, which is owned by Lippert, recommends lubricating the gear at the outside bearing with a dry lubricant silicone. I use the CRC version here as well, which you can get on Amazon here.

They don’t recommend spraying on the gear itself or track teeth. However, I have found when they are as rusty as this one, a light spray of Corrosion X helps get rid of the rust and protects the metal without attracting grit and dirt. Spray it on lightly, wipe it off, and let it dry or use compressed air. It works great for any rusted metal and is a rust prohibitor as well. You can find it on Amazon here.

 You might also enjoy this from Dave 

Should I lubricate the cables on my RV’s slide room?

Dear Dave,
Our trailer has a cable-driven slideout. Is there any maintenance I should be doing on the system? I can’t see where lubricating the cables would work. —William, Heartland Mallard M301

Read Dave’s answer.

Dave Solberg is a leading expert in the RV industry and the author of the “RV Handbook.”

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