Last Updated on October 8, 2024
Maintaining your RV is crucial for ensuring a smooth and hassle-free adventure on the road. One of the essential maintenance tasks that every RV owner should know is how to replace slide out seals. These seals are vital for keeping out water, dust, and pests, and ensuring the longevity of your RV's slide outs. In this article, we've compiled a step-by-step guide to help you replace your RV slide out seals efficiently. We found a great video from the YouTube channel "Why Wait" that walks through the entire process. Below are the highlights, and make sure to watch the entire video at the bottom of the article for a more detailed visual guide.
1. Assessing the Condition of Your Current Seals
Before diving into the replacement process, it's essential to assess the condition of your current seals. Over time, seals can deteriorate due to exposure to the elements, causing water leaks and other issues. If your seals are falling apart after just a few years, as the video suggests, it's time for a replacement. And if you thought rubber seals could last forever, well, welcome to the reality of cheap manufactured rubber!
2. Choosing the Right Replacement Seals
Not all seals are created equal. The video highlights the Flip and Seal system, which uses automotive-grade rubber engineered in Germany. This system is praised for its durability and ease of installation. Let's face it, if it's good enough for German cars, it's good enough for your RV! Plus, who doesn't love a little German engineering in their life?
3. Gathering the Necessary Tools
To replace your RV slide out seals, you'll need a variety of tools, including a tape measure, X-Acto knife, putty knife, drill, and more. The video provides a comprehensive list of tools you'll need. And remember, having the right tools can make you feel like a DIY superhero, ready to tackle any RV maintenance challenge!
4. Removing the Old Seals
The first step in the actual replacement process is removing the old seals. This involves taking out screws and staples, and cleaning off any old adhesive. It might be a bit of a pain, but think of it as a workout – who needs a gym membership when you have an RV to maintain?
5. Preparing the Surface
Once the old seals are removed, it's crucial to clean and prep the surface before applying the new seals. Use a product like Kint Automotive Acrisol to remove any sticky residue and prep the surface for the new adhesive. Remember, cleanliness is next to RV godliness!
6. Installing the New Seals
Now comes the fun part – installing the new Flip and Seal system. The video walks you through the process, including how to use the locator leg to ensure proper alignment. It's almost like putting together a giant, sticky jigsaw puzzle – but way more satisfying when you get it right!
7. Final Touches and Testing
After installing the new seals, it's important to test them by extending and retracting your slide outs a few times. Make sure everything is aligned and functioning properly. And don't forget to run a bead of caulk along the top and sides for extra protection. It's like giving your RV a nice, cozy blanket to keep it safe and dry.
8. Installing Style Caps (Optional)
If you want to go the extra mile, consider installing style caps on the corners of your slide outs. These not only improve the appearance of your RV but also provide additional protection against water intrusion. It's like adding a cherry on top of an already perfect sundae – why not make it even better?
