Lubricating a Slide Out on a Travel Trailer: A Comprehensive Guide to Keeping Your Camper Operating Smoothly

Travel trailers and fifth wheels have become increasingly popular in recent years as a way to enjoy the flexibility and affordability of RV travel. One of the key components of any slide-out equipped RV is the slide out mechanism itself. This mechanism allows you to extend and retract the slide out room, providing additional living space when parked and camping. However, to ensure that your slide out operates smoothly and safely, it is important to lubricate it regularly.

Why Lubrication Matters

Lubricating the slide out mechanism is essential for several reasons. First, lubrication reduces friction between the moving parts of the mechanism, making it easier to extend and retract the slide out. Second, lubrication helps to prevent wear and tear on these parts, extending the life of the mechanism. Third, lubrication helps to protect the metal components from corrosion, which can cause premature failure.

Benefits of Regular Lubrication

Regular lubrication of the slide out mechanism offers a number of benefits, including:

• Smoother operation: Lubrication reduces friction, making the slide out easier to extend and retract.
• Extended lifespan: Lubrication helps to prevent wear and tear on the moving parts of the mechanism, extending its lifespan.
• Protection from corrosion: Lubrication helps to protect the metal components of the mechanism from corrosion, which can cause premature failure.
• Improved safety: A well-lubricated slide out mechanism is less likely to bind or malfunction, improving safety during operation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When lubricating the slide out mechanism on your travel trailer, it is important to avoid several common mistakes:

• Using the wrong type of lubricant: Not all lubricants are created equal. It is important to use a lubricant that is specifically designed for slide out mechanisms. Never use WD-40 or other general-purpose lubricants. These products can actually damage the seals and other components of the mechanism.
• Over-lubricating: Too much lubricant can attract dirt and debris, which can cause the mechanism to bind. It is important to apply the lubricant sparingly, following the manufacturer's instructions.
• Neglecting the seals: The seals around the slide out mechanism are essential for keeping water and debris out. It is important to inspect the seals regularly and apply a lubricant that is specifically designed for rubber seals.
• Ignoring the gear: The gear on the slide out mechanism is also an important part of the system. It is important to lubricate the gear regularly with a grease that is specifically designed for gears.

How to Lubricate a Slide Out Mechanism

Step 1: Gather your materials

You will need the following materials to lubricate the slide out mechanism on your travel trailer:

• A slide out lubricant
• A rubber seal lubricant
• A gear lubricant
• A clean rag
• A pair of gloves

Step 2: Prepare the slide out

Before you begin lubricating the slide out mechanism, it is important to prepare the slide out.

• Extend the slide out: This will give you access to the moving parts of the mechanism.
• Clean the mechanism: Use a clean rag to wipe away any dirt or debris from the moving parts of the mechanism.

Step 3: Lubricate the mechanism

• Apply the slide out lubricant: Apply a thin layer of slide out lubricant to all of the moving parts of the mechanism.
• Apply the rubber seal lubricant: Apply a thin layer of rubber seal lubricant to the seals around the slide out.
• Apply the gear lubricant: Apply a thin layer of gear lubricant to the gear on the slide out mechanism.

Step 4: Retract the slide out

Once you have lubricated the slide out mechanism, retract the slide out. This will help to distribute the lubricant evenly.

Step 5: Wipe away excess lubricant

Use a clean rag to wipe away any excess lubricant from the mechanism.

How Often to Lubricate a Slide Out Mechanism

The frequency with which you need to lubricate the slide out mechanism on your travel trailer will depend on several factors, including the type of lubricant you use, the climate in which you live, and how often you use the slide out. Generally speaking, it is a good idea to lubricate the mechanism at least once a year, or more often if you use the slide out frequently.

FAQs

Q: What is the best type of lubricant for a slide out mechanism?
A: The best type of lubricant for a slide out mechanism is a dry silicone lubricant that is specifically designed for RV slide outs.

Q: How often should I lubricate the slide out mechanism on my travel trailer?
A: You should lubricate the slide out mechanism on your travel trailer at least once a year, or more often if you use the slide out frequently.

Q: Can I use WD-40 to lubricate the slide out mechanism on my travel trailer?
A: You should never use WD-40 or other general-purpose lubricants to lubricate the slide out mechanism on your travel trailer. These products can actually damage the seals and other components of the mechanism.

Conclusion

Lubricating the slide out mechanism on your travel trailer is an important task that can help to extend the life of the mechanism and ensure that it operates smoothly and safely. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily lubricate the slide out mechanism on your own and keep your camper in top condition.