Since you need to use the rv in the "closed" set up and have two normal boys I suggest you purchase a trailer with no slides. Grey Wolf and several others have some good plans with no slides. I know lots of folks wouldn't live without their slides but a good floor plan makes them unnecessary. And you lose all the problems associated with the care and maintenance of slides. Just a thought.
And in answer to your incredulity to the slide not being used when retracted just remember that this mechanical tool was DESIGNED to be used in the extended position. Mechanical things need to be used as designed in most cases.
Good luck on your rv purchase.
