Forum Discussion

epfd217's avatar
epfd217
Explorer
Sep 27, 2017

Main slide leaks. Difficulty getting warranty action

Background is I have a 2017 Salem Hemisphere 312QBUD. We purchased this rig in May of 2016.

Since day one we have had a leak in the main living room slide out. The slide leaks in the upper, outside front corner. Water comes into the cupboard above the couch. The leak is most common when the slide is closed, however it has happened when opened up.

We have reported this more than once and each time the dealership says they cannot replicate the leak. There response as well as the response from the factory rep is that if they cannot replicate the leak they cannot fix it.

Currently the factory is offering to install a slide-topper awning to protect the area from water getting on the slideout.

Anyone have more advice? I've pushed and pushed and I don't seem to be getting anywhere. We've been to two service departments and the results are always the same.
  • ScottG's avatar
    ScottG
    Nomad
    Sep 27, 2017
    A slide topper is a good idea but make them tell you what model they're installing first.
    Carefree makes a super cheapo slide cover that only manufacutrures can buy because it's such a piece of junk. It will do more harm than good because it just collapses with rain, stretches out and then dumps it down the inside corner of the slide.
    I got ripped off with two of these!
    So find out what model and then go on-line and check it out.
    Don't accept it unless it's one of the retail models on thier web site.
  • Artum_Snowbird's avatar
    Artum_Snowbird
    Explorer
    Sep 27, 2017
    Also with a slide topper you want to examine someone else's, and realize how long of a slide topper you can install. I have had two factory units on my rigs, and they generally are exactly the same length as the slide is wide. When it rains, and is windy, the rain just comes under the edge and again soaks the corners. Get one installed that is 9-12 inches longer on both ends and you will have much better protection.
  • dougrainer's avatar
    dougrainer
    Nomad
    Sep 27, 2017
    If the water comes in the cupboard above the couch that rules out slide seal problem. Since the leak is obviously at the outside flange to the roof mount it should be easy for the Dealer to open the slide and just run a water hose direct on the roof for a few hours. This type problem really needs a air pressure test which will show where the water is getting in. The reason it leaks more when closed is because the outside slide metal flanges torque and if not sealed correctly "open" up a small gap for the water to go in. Doug
  • epfd217's avatar
    epfd217
    Explorer
    Sep 27, 2017
    Doug, thanks for your reply. Thats the most helpful things I've heard about this problem from anyone.

    To be fair, the service department has been great to deal with and very open about all the steps they've taken. It was their idea to get in touch with the factory rep for guidance and I've spoken to him as well.

    They've run a running water test, a high pressure water test and the interior pressure check that you described and they are unable to replicate or locate a source of the leak.

    Thanks for the tips on the slide topper. I have to confirm with them about the slide awning this week so hopefully I can find out more.
  • dougrainer's avatar
    dougrainer
    Nomad
    Sep 28, 2017
    if you had a leak in your new HOUSE and they stated they would install a small tarp over that area where the leak is, would accept that? While the slide cover is a good thing to have, installing one because they are unable(they could if they had the factory haul it back) to find to repair a defect, is not correct. LEAKS need fixed, not covered up. Doug
    PS, They did not due the pressure test correctly if they could not find the source.
  • epfd217's avatar
    epfd217
    Explorer
    Oct 10, 2017
    I am completely on the same page as you and have made all the same statements to them regarding this issue. That being said, I've worked as a mechanic and if you can't replicate the issue, no service department is going to throw money at an issue. I fully understand the slide topper is simply a bandaid for the leak.

    That is why I was trying to get more opinions. At this point, I've hit a dead end unless I pay for a lawyer. Not sure what else to push and what to ask for.
  • dougrainer's avatar
    dougrainer
    Nomad
    Oct 10, 2017
    epfd217 wrote:
    I am completely on the same page as you and have made all the same statements to them regarding this issue. That being said, I've worked as a mechanic and if you can't replicate the issue, no service department is going to throw money at an issue. I fully understand the slide topper is simply a bandaid for the leak.

    That is why I was trying to get more opinions. At this point, I've hit a dead end unless I pay for a lawyer. Not sure what else to push and what to ask for.


    Does your State have a Lemon Law? If so, you qualify for starting a Lemon law proceeding. Send a CERTIFIED letter to the President of the RV Maker and to the dealership owner outlining the problems and lack of repair you have had. State that you will expect them to get your RV fixed. Then see what happens. State you will start Lemon Law if your state has one. Report the Dealer to the BBB. Most honest companies do not like to have a negative report with the BBB. Doug
  • Dave_H_M's avatar
    Dave_H_M
    Explorer II
    Oct 10, 2017
    The last thing i would do is put a topper on to cover up the defect.

    My last fifth wheel had a leak toward the outside corner of the big slide. i tracked it down to where the trim made the 90 degree corner. Was wide open spaces up there. nothing a generous amount of dicor couldn't fix applied in three intervals.

    Why don't you shinny up there sand take as gander. :h

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