Last Updated on September 10, 2024
Owning an RV is an adventure, but it comes with its fair share of challenges, especially when it comes to maintenance. One common issue many RV owners face is malfunctioning slide outs. These handy extensions can sometimes refuse to go all the way out or come all the way in, leaving you with gaps that let in cold or hot air. Whether it's an adjustment issue or a problem with the hydraulic system, fixing your slide outs doesn't have to be a daunting task. We found a great video from the YouTube channel "Why Wait" that breaks down the entire process, and below are the highlights. Make sure to watch the entire video at the bottom of the article for a more comprehensive guide.
1. Understanding the Basics of Slide Out Adjustment
Before diving under your RV, it's crucial to understand the basics of slide out mechanisms. Slide outs can be hydraulic or electric, and each type has its unique set of bolts, nuts, and screws that require adjustment. This foundational knowledge will make the entire process less intimidating and more manageable. And let's be honest, the thought of crawling under your RV might make you wish you had a robot to do it for you!
2. Essential Tools and Preparations
Before you start adjusting anything, ensure your RV’s batteries are fully charged and your hydraulic reservoir is filled. You'll also need a set of wrenches, a wire brush, and some lubricant like Bow Shield T9. Remember, if you find yourself using more WD-40 than your RV weighs, you might be overdoing it!
3. Adjusting the Actuator Arm
The actuator arm is the heart of your slide out mechanism. If your slide out isn't coming all the way in or going all the way out, this is the part you'll need to adjust. Loosen the two jam nuts and move them incrementally to get the perfect fit. Just think of it as giving your RV a chiropractic adjustment—minus the soothing background music.
4. Cleaning and Lubricating the Mechanism
Over time, dirt and rust can accumulate on the threads of your actuator arm, making adjustments difficult. Use a wire brush to clean the threads and apply a generous amount of lubricant. If your RV's slide out mechanism looks like it’s auditioning for a role in a rust-themed horror movie, it’s time for some serious cleaning!
5. Adjusting the Idler Arm
If adjusting the actuator arm doesn't solve your problem, you may need to tweak the idler arm. This involves loosening the bolts on the adjustable head assembly and pushing the arm to get it aligned correctly. It's like a game of Tetris, but with higher stakes and less fun music.
6. Fine-Tuning the Height
Although this is a more advanced adjustment, knowing where the height adjustment bolts are can be helpful. These bolts allow you to raise or lower the slide out to ensure a perfect fit. If you ever need to do this, just remember: it's not the height of the slide out that counts, but how you adjust it.
7. Final Checks and Testing
Once all adjustments are made, test the slide out by extending and retracting it multiple times. Make minor tweaks as needed to ensure everything is snug and secure. If your slide out is still acting up, it might be time to call in a professional—or start considering a career in RV repair!
By following these steps, you can fix your RV slide outs with ease and confidence. Don't forget to watch the full video:
