Forum Discussion

Crabbypatty's avatar
Crabbypatty
Explorer
Jul 10, 2014

slide out stabilizers

Does anyone use a stabilzer under the slide out when extended? Just wondering if this is something else I should buy. My slide is large and has the table and sofa so there is weight on it when in use. Thanks

39 Replies

  • Just because something is for sale via aftermarket doesn't mean it is needed, required or an improvement.
    IE: Slide out stabilizers, anode rods for Atwood water heaters, digital antennas etc.


    You left out refrigerater fans/6-volt batteries/catalytic heaters and a host of other add-ons that make RVing more pleasant. When you have large storage areas in your slide out that is a full slide out then add three or four scrappy kids that weigh well over 200 lbs horsing around, I don't mind having the option to add support for that slide out.

    There inexpensive and safe to use if used properly. How many full timers have a factory approved year around living rv? That alone used to void the Jayco warranty.

    And think about this, we all know that leveling the refrigerator and or RV is very important but I have yet to see one come with levels from the factory, there all after market.

    No problem here, I use them(slide stabilizers) and have for years and never had an issue with them even having the dreaded flat tire while on, nothing happened at all and it was just as level as before the flat using corner jacks.

    I doubt there are many if any that don't use some sort of an after market device on there rv.... We each just chose which after market devices fits our needs,which are different for each of us.

    Just don't say slide stabilizers will ruin your RV if used properly, because they won't. Anything used improperly is subject to damage!
  • Just because something is for sale via aftermarket doesn't mean it is needed, required or an improvement.
    IE: Slide out stabilizers, anode rods for Atwood water heaters, digital antennas etc.

    IF slide out stabilizers were needed.......mfg. would include them so that they weren't having to do warranty repairs because of them not being provided.
    Think about it!

    They are just another aftermarket gadget designed to lighten your wallet for NO good reason/benefit as slide outs are 'self supporting'
  • I've been using mine for years and never had a problem when using good corner jacks. Even had a flat tire with the slide stabilizers on and it didn't move at all because the corner screw jacks rated at 6500 lbs held the trailer in place.

    Most all replies on this subject do not come from experience but from internet nonsense.

    If used correctly, the stabilizers work just fine!
  • Real world example... Our main slideout is 14 feet long and 4 feet deep. Several times we have had as many as 8 adults sitting in it (4 at dining table & 4 on the sofa). Our 5th wheel is 20 years old and the slideout still works great.

    I've never used stabilizers on the slideouts
  • I have no idea why these are even sold as virtually all TT manufacturers specifically say DO NOT use these stabilizers. But the ads for them sure make them seem crucial. Save your money for something you really do need and forget these. Happy Camping!
  • I've not heard, nor have I ever seen a stabilizer for a slide. Your camper is made to use the slide as is. As stated above, using one could cause more damage than good.
  • IMO, the slide stabilizer can do more harm than good.

    The slide is designed to manage the weight on it's own.

    You may be on a soft surface, at some CG, where the trailer could settle, causing the slide to bind.

    You may forget, or someone else try to put the slide in, with the support still under the slide.

    I would not use one.

    Jerry
  • Slideout supports are not required for a properly maintained and functioning slideout, and some manufacturers recommend against using them. I don't use them on my RV.