RV GALLERY
If you spend most of your RV time parked, then a slide out is the greatest invention to come down the pike.
On the other hand, if you’re more mobile, driving down the road every day or so, then there are a number of reasons to give slideouts a second thought.
How to Repair an RV Slide Out
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Slide outs add an extra room to RVs and campers.
RV slide outs add space and convenience to campers of all shapes and size. By and large, the mechanisms of slide outs are dependable and rather simple in terms of moving parts. The most common problem is with leaking around the top and sides. These are often relatively easy to fix. Mechanical, electrical or hydraulic problems are often quite a chore to repair. It could be as simple as replacing a fuse or repairing a wire. It could be as complex as having to replace or overhaul a hydraulic system
Check for simple and easy solutions before you do anything else. Remove any slide locks. Closely examine the entire area around your slide out, including underneath. Make sure that there is not some foreign object that is restricting its movement. Using a ladder, check the top of the slide and the roof and wall sections adjacent to it. The problem could be anything from mud, tree limbs, that beach towel you lost at the beach, or any number of things. Make sure that the entire area is free from any impediments, and that the slide out has the proper space to operate freely.
Turn on the slide out to see what is happening. If the motor is not working, you will not hear anything when you turn the switch on. Check to insure that you have electrical power to the camper. Make sure you have a power source, either plugged in or running on charged batteries. After confirming that there is electrical power, check the fuses. Refer to your owner's manual for specifics on your model. Check the switch visibly for any noticeable damage. Use a volt meter to check to see whether power is going to and from the switch. Check the wiring to the motor if there is still no motor operation. There could be a fuse in the electrical line going to the motor. If there is, be sure to check that fuse. If all the wiring is good but the motor is not working, the motor itself could be bad.
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Refer to your owner's manual to determine whether your slide out has a mechanical or a hydraulic system. Check the hydraulic fluid levels first if you have a hydraulic system. The problem could be as simple as low hydraulic fluid, though this is probably not likely, especially with a newer RV. You would likely have seen signs of leakage if this were the case. Inspect the hydraulic pumps, valves and hoses for any visual problems, leakage or damage. These can sometimes be complex to repair if you are not experienced and mechanically inclined. If you are not experienced with this type repair, you should probably give your RV shop a call.
Visually inspect the parts of a mechanical system. There could be a broken shear pin, a worn or broken gear or clutch. Once you identify a broken part, consult your owner's manual or the manufacturer's website, or call your local dealership on how to obtain and replace the part.
Visually locate any leaks and then determine the source of the leak. If the leak is a small one, a sealing tape might be all you need to fix it. You can find these tapes at your local RV supply store or online. Various other caulks and sealants can also be found there. If the leak is a big one or if the seal is in need of replacement, consider professional repair
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