Slide reliability - Are they reliable?
Years back I had 1995 5th wheel it had problems with the slide rollers and seals, etc. due to this I have been reluctant to get anything with slides. However I now find myself wanting another RV and...
Forum Discussion
Our slide has a ram with rack and pinion mechanism. It was improperly installed with the wrong shear pin, but once the torn-up mechanism was replaced with one using a grade 8 bolt, the mechanism has been fine.
I've heard that some mechanisms are more rugged than others. The ram rack and pinion seems pretty solid.
Our slide is right over the wheel wells. And although it has an elaborate, multiple set of seals underneath, water can still get splashed in when travelling all day in heavy rain or through deep puddles. The rug under the slide gets wet.
Most slides, mine included have less insulation in the roof and floor and can leak a lot of heat through the seals as well. A trailer without slides is a lot better in the winter.
But even with those negatives, we really appreciate the extra space a slide gives. For a single person, I wouldn't get one. For two or more, I definitely would. Our first trailer didn't have a slide and it was really cramped.
I've heard that some mechanisms are more rugged than others. The ram rack and pinion seems pretty solid.
Our slide is right over the wheel wells. And although it has an elaborate, multiple set of seals underneath, water can still get splashed in when travelling all day in heavy rain or through deep puddles. The rug under the slide gets wet.
Most slides, mine included have less insulation in the roof and floor and can leak a lot of heat through the seals as well. A trailer without slides is a lot better in the winter.
But even with those negatives, we really appreciate the extra space a slide gives. For a single person, I wouldn't get one. For two or more, I definitely would. Our first trailer didn't have a slide and it was really cramped.
