Adjusting a slide out on a travel trailer is essential for maintaining a weather-tight seal, preventing damage to the unit, and ensuring smooth operation. While the process can seem daunting, understanding the underlying mechanics and following a systematic approach will enable you to address most common slide out issues effectively.
Understanding the Importance of Proper Slide Out Adjustment
Slide outs significantly enhance the living space within a travel trailer, but their complexity means they’re prone to misalignment. Misalignment can lead to several problems: water leaks, air drafts, premature wear and tear on the slide out mechanism, difficulty extending or retracting the slide, and even structural damage to the trailer itself. Regular inspection and timely adjustment are crucial for preserving the longevity and usability of your RV. Ignoring these issues can lead to costly repairs down the line.
Identifying the Type of Slide Out Mechanism
Before attempting any adjustments, it’s vital to identify the type of slide out mechanism your travel trailer utilizes. The most common types include:
- Schwintek (SlimRack): Characterized by vertical tracks and small, rack-and-pinion motors on either side of the slide out. They are recognizable by their thin, vertical rails.
- Cable Slide: Uses cables attached to a central drum to pull the slide in and out. These typically feature cables running along the top and bottom of the slide.
- Rack and Pinion: A more robust system using gears and a toothed rack to move the slide out. You’ll usually find a large gear (pinion) connected to a motor.
- Hydraulic Slide: Employs hydraulic cylinders to power the slide’s movement. These are often used for larger and heavier slide outs and have hydraulic lines visible near the slide.
Identifying the system is essential because the adjustment procedures differ significantly between them. Consult your RV’s owner’s manual for specific information about your slide out system.
Gathering Necessary Tools and Materials
Having the right tools on hand will make the adjustment process smoother and more efficient. While the specific tools may vary depending on your slide out type, some common essentials include:
- Socket set: A variety of socket sizes will be needed for adjusting bolts and fasteners.
- Wrench set: Similarly, wrenches are necessary for tightening and loosening hardware.
- Screwdrivers: Both Phillips head and flathead screwdrivers are essential for various adjustments.
- Level: A level is crucial for ensuring the slide out is extending and retracting evenly.
- Measuring tape: Accurate measurements are key to making precise adjustments.
- Lubricant: A silicone-based lubricant is recommended for lubricating moving parts and reducing friction. Avoid petroleum-based lubricants, as they can damage rubber seals.
- Ladder: May be needed to access higher areas of the slide out mechanism.
- Chocks: For safety, use wheel chocks to prevent the travel trailer from moving during the adjustment process.
- RV Owner’s Manual: Contains invaluable information specific to your RV’s slide out system.
Step-by-Step Adjustment Procedures (General Guidelines)
Remember: Always consult your RV’s owner’s manual for specific instructions tailored to your slide out system. The following steps provide general guidelines:
- Inspect the Slide Out: Carefully examine the slide out for any obvious signs of damage, loose hardware, or obstructions.
- Extend the Slide Out: Fully extend the slide out to its maximum extension.
- Check for Level: Use a level to check if the slide out is level both horizontally and vertically. Note any areas that are out of alignment.
- Locate Adjustment Points: Identify the adjustment points on your slide out mechanism. These are typically located near the motors, tracks, or cables. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific locations.
- Make Small Adjustments: Make small, incremental adjustments to the identified adjustment points. Tighten or loosen bolts as necessary to correct any misalignment.
- Retract and Extend: After each adjustment, retract the slide out completely and then extend it again to check the results.
- Repeat as Needed: Continue making small adjustments and checking the results until the slide out is level and operating smoothly.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Once the adjustments are complete, lubricate all moving parts with a silicone-based lubricant.
Specific Considerations for Schwintek (SlimRack) Slides
Schwintek slides are particularly sensitive to misalignment. Synchronization is critical for these systems. If one motor runs faster than the other, the slide will bind.
- Resynchronization: Schwintek slides often require resynchronization. This typically involves pressing and holding a button on the slide out controller until the motors reset. Consult your owner’s manual for the specific procedure.
- Gear Pack Adjustment: Fine-tuning the gear packs can sometimes correct minor misalignment. However, this should be done cautiously and only if you are comfortable with the procedure.
Specific Considerations for Cable Slides
Cable slides require maintaining proper cable tension.
- Cable Tension Adjustment: Check the cable tension and adjust it according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Loose cables can cause the slide to sag or bind.
- Cable Inspection: Regularly inspect the cables for any signs of wear or fraying. Replace damaged cables immediately.
Specific Considerations for Rack and Pinion Slides
Rack and Pinion slides often have adjustment points on the pinion gears.
- Pinion Gear Alignment: Ensure the pinion gears are properly aligned with the rack. Misalignment can cause uneven wear and tear.
- Rack Inspection: Inspect the rack for any damage or missing teeth. Replace damaged racks promptly.
Specific Considerations for Hydraulic Slides
Hydraulic slides rely on consistent pressure in the hydraulic system.
- Hydraulic Fluid Level: Check the hydraulic fluid level regularly and top it off as needed. Low fluid levels can cause the slide to operate sluggishly.
- Leak Inspection: Inspect the hydraulic lines and cylinders for any leaks. Repair any leaks immediately.
When to Seek Professional Assistance
While many slide out adjustments can be performed by RV owners, some situations require professional assistance. If you are uncomfortable working with electrical or hydraulic systems, or if you are unable to identify the source of the problem, it’s best to consult a qualified RV technician. Attempting complex repairs without proper knowledge can lead to further damage and costly repairs.
FAQs About Adjusting Travel Trailer Slide Outs
Q1: How often should I inspect and adjust my slide out?
A1: It’s recommended to inspect your slide out at least twice a year, ideally before and after the camping season. Adjustments should be made as needed based on your observations. Regular maintenance can prevent minor issues from escalating into major problems.
Q2: What is the best lubricant to use on my slide out?
A2: A silicone-based lubricant is generally recommended. It’s non-corrosive and won’t damage rubber seals. Avoid petroleum-based lubricants, as they can cause the seals to swell and deteriorate.
Q3: My Schwintek slide out is making a clicking noise. What does that mean?
A3: A clicking noise in a Schwintek slide out often indicates a synchronization issue or a problem with the gear packs. Try resynchronizing the slide out. If the noise persists, consult a qualified RV technician.
Q4: How do I know if my slide out cables are too loose or too tight?
A4: Loose cables will often cause the slide to sag or bind. Tight cables can put excessive strain on the slide out mechanism. Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended cable tension specifications.
Q5: Can I adjust the slide out while the travel trailer is not level?
A5: No, it’s crucial to ensure your travel trailer is level before attempting any slide out adjustments. An unlevel trailer can skew the adjustments and lead to further misalignment.
Q6: What causes a slide out to leak water?
A6: Water leaks can be caused by several factors, including worn or damaged seals, misalignment of the slide out, or improper installation. Inspect the seals for any cracks or tears and ensure the slide out is properly aligned.
Q7: My slide out is stuck. What should I do?
A7: First, check for any obstructions blocking the slide out. Ensure the travel trailer is level. Try resynchronizing the motors (for Schwintek systems). If the slide remains stuck, consult a qualified RV technician.
Q8: How do I resynchronize a Schwintek slide out?
A8: The resynchronization procedure varies depending on the specific model. Refer to your RV’s owner’s manual for the exact steps. Typically, it involves pressing and holding a button on the slide out controller until the motors reset.
Q9: Is it safe to use my slide out while driving?
A9: No, never travel with your slide out extended. This can cause significant damage to the slide out mechanism and the travel trailer itself. Always ensure the slide out is fully retracted and secured before driving.
Q10: What is the purpose of the slide out locks?
A10: Slide out locks are designed to provide additional support and security for the slide out while it’s extended, particularly during strong winds or when the travel trailer is parked on uneven ground.
Q11: Can I adjust the slide out myself, even if I have limited experience?
A11: Minor adjustments, such as lubricating moving parts or tightening loose hardware, can often be performed by RV owners with limited experience. However, more complex adjustments should be left to qualified RV technicians.
Q12: How do I prevent future slide out problems?
A12: Regular inspection, proper lubrication, avoiding overloading the slide out, and ensuring the travel trailer is level when extending the slide out can help prevent future problems. Also, be mindful of weather conditions and retract the slide out during strong winds or severe storms.
By following these guidelines and prioritizing regular maintenance, you can keep your travel trailer slide out operating smoothly for years to come.