Forum Discussion

A390GT's avatar
A390GT
Explorer
Sep 23, 2015

Are slides safe to use in the closed position?

We are looking for a double bunk travel trailer with a dinette and sofa in the slide. We would like to be able to use it closed while stopped. We have two boys that will be jumping on everything a...
Huntindog's avatar
Huntindog
Explorer
Sep 23, 2015
RDMueller wrote:
On mine, a Lippert electric slide, the dealer said not to walk on it when retracted. Sounds like on some models it's fine. I'd check with the manufacturer to see which applies to your model.
Here in lies the problem... Most all of these TTs are out of warranty. Call the manufacturer, and "hope" you talk to someone that actually knows what they are talking about. Not just some one that answers the phone.

It really isn't rocket science. If you realize that there is NOTHING supporting the slide when it is retracted... the answer is pretty obvious.
A flush to the floor when extended slide is just a pretty thin, 1/2" to 3/4" plywood type board that is attached to the walls. There are NO other supports or joists under it like a typical floor has. Imaging a piece of plywood the size of your slideout. Set on a concrete floor with some 2x4s under it on 3 sides to simulate the walls.

Now step on it... How solid does it feel underfoot?
Not very good eh? Well it is worse on a TT, as the plywood is attached to the bottom of the walls. It is not on top of anything.

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