A Comprehensive Guide to Manually Closing Slide Outs on Pilgrim 29 ft Bunkhouse Trailers

In the vast realm of recreational vehicles, the Pilgrim 29 ft bunkhouse trailer stands as a beacon of comfort and adventure. With its spacious interior and abundant amenities, this trailer is a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. However, like all mechanical devices, slide outs can occasionally malfunction, requiring manual intervention.

This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to manually close slide outs on your Pilgrim 29 ft Bunkhouse trailer. By following these instructions carefully and adhering to the safety precautions outlined below, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free process.

Safety Precautions

Before embarking on the manual slide out closing procedure, it is paramount to prioritize safety. Observe the following precautions to mitigate any potential risks:

1. Park the trailer on a level surface. This will help prevent the slide out from rolling accidentally.
2. Disconnect the trailer from the tow vehicle. This will eliminate any electrical interference during the manual closing process.
3. Stabilize the trailer using leveling blocks and chocks. This will provide a secure and stable platform for working on the slide out.
4. Wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves and safety glasses. This will protect you from potential injuries.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Materials Required:

• Adjustable wrench
• Screwdriver
• Electrical tape
• Lubricant (optional)

Instructions:

1. Locate the slide out motor. The motor is typically located underneath the trailer, near the slide out mechanism.
2. Disconnect the electrical wires from the motor. Use the adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts that secure the wires.
3. Remove the bolts that secure the motor to the trailer frame. Use the wrench to remove the bolts, being careful not to lose any of the washers or nuts.
4. Pull the slide out in manually. Once the motor is removed, you should be able to pull the slide out in manually. If the slide out is heavy or difficult to move, you may need to use a pry bar or a winch to assist you.
5. Secure the slide out in the closed position. Once the slide out is fully closed, use the bolts to secure it to the trailer frame. Tighten the bolts securely, using the wrench.
6. Reconnect the electrical wires to the motor. Use the adjustable wrench to tighten the nuts that secure the wires.
7. Lubricate the slide out mechanism (optional). Applying lubricant to the slide out mechanism can help to reduce friction and prevent wear and tear.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter any difficulties while manually closing your slide out, consult the following troubleshooting tips:

• The slide out is stuck and will not move. Check if there are any obstructions blocking the slide out's path. If there are no obstructions, try using a pry bar or a winch to assist you in pulling the slide out in.
• The slide out is moving slowly or erratically. The slide out motor may be damaged or malfunctioning. Contact a qualified RV technician for assistance.
• The slide out is leaking water. The slide out seals may be damaged or worn. Inspect the seals for any tears or gaps and replace them if necessary.

Maintenance and Prevention

To ensure the longevity and smooth operation of your Pilgrim 29 ft bunkhouse slide outs, regular maintenance is essential. Here are some maintenance tips to follow:

• Inspect the slide out seals regularly. Look for any tears or gaps in the seals and replace them if necessary.
• Lubricate the slide out mechanism annually. Applying lubricant to the slide out mechanism can help to reduce friction and prevent wear and tear.
• Store the trailer in a dry and protected location when not in use. This will help to prevent damage to the slide out mechanism and seals from exposure to the elements.

Benefits of Manually Closing Slide Outs

While manually closing slide outs may seem like a daunting task, there are several benefits to doing so:

• Increased control. Manually closing slide outs gives you more control over the process, allowing you to move the slide out at a slower and more controlled pace.
• Reduced risk of damage. By manually closing slide outs, you can avoid the potential damage that can occur if the motor malfunctions or if there are any obstructions in the slide out's path.
• Cost savings. Manually closing slide outs can save you money on repair costs if the motor fails.

Stories and Lessons Learned

To illustrate the importance of knowing how to manually close slide outs, consider the following stories:

• Story 1: A family was camping in their Pilgrim 29 ft bunkhouse trailer when the slide out motor malfunctioned. The family was unable to close the slide out, which left them exposed to the elements. Fortunately, they were able to manually close the slide out using the instructions provided in this guide.
• Story 2: A couple was driving their Pilgrim 29 ft bunkhouse trailer when they hit a large pothole. The impact damaged the slide out motor, causing the slide out to become stuck. The couple was able to manually close the slide out and continue their journey.
• Story 3: A group of friends were renting a Pilgrim 29 ft bunkhouse trailer for a weekend getaway. They were unfamiliar with the trailer and accidentally damaged the slide out motor while trying to close it. The friends were able to manually close the slide out and avoid paying for expensive repairs.

These stories highlight the importance of being prepared to manually close slide outs. By following the instructions in this guide and practicing the procedure, you can ensure that you are always prepared for any eventuality.

Effective Strategies

To effectively close slide outs manually on your Pilgrim 29 ft bunkhouse trailer, consider the following strategies:

• Use a pry bar or a winch to assist you. If the slide out is heavy or difficult to move, using a pry bar or a winch can make the process easier and safer.
• Lubricate the slide out mechanism regularly. Applying lubricant to the slide out mechanism can help to reduce friction and prevent wear and tear.
• Practice the procedure regularly. The more familiar you are with the manual slide out closing procedure, the easier it will be to perform in an emergency situation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To avoid making common mistakes while manually closing slide outs, heed the following advice:

• Do not force the slide out. If the slide out is stuck, do not try to force it closed. This can damage the slide out mechanism or the trailer frame.
• Do not disconnect the electrical wires from the motor without first disconnecting the trailer from the tow vehicle. This can create an electrical hazard.
• Do not attempt to close the slide out if there are any obstructions in its path. Obstructions can damage the slide out or the trailer frame.

Why Matters and Benefits

Understanding how to manually close slide outs on your Pilgrim 29 ft bunkhouse trailer is crucial for several reasons:

• Safety. Manually closing slide outs can prevent injuries or damage to the trailer if the motor malfunctions or if there are any obstructions in the slide out's path.
• Convenience. Being able to manually close slide outs can save you time and hassle if the motor fails.
• Cost savings. Manually closing slide outs can save you money on repair costs if the motor fails.

Conclusion

Manually closing slide outs on your Pilgrim 29 ft bunkhouse trailer is a simple and straightforward procedure that can be performed by anyone with basic mechanical skills. By following the instructions in this guide and observing the safety precautions outlined above, you can ensure that your slide outs are always closed securely and safely.

Remember, regular maintenance and practicing the manual closing procedure are key to ensuring the longevity and smooth operation of your Pilgrim 29 ft bunkhouse slide outs. By following these tips, you can enjoy years of trouble-free camping adventures with your family and friends.