Doug----I just checked the slide and it still has about 3" left to go. Hadn't noticed that. I will do the switch check you mentioned tomorrow in daylight (it's midnight now). I think the "smoke" was caused by the fluid hitting some hot components back there (axle, exhaust, etc). When I first looked at it I could see fluid pouring out (not misting) that's why I think it blew a connection or hose. Does that seem logical?
Will be checking out some local places for a mobile repair as I hate to move it until I actually know what happened. Don't want to cause more problems!
Many thanks for your reply,
DICK