slides first or stabilizer jacks first?
On a travel trailer with 2 large slides on one side, is it better to run the slides out first, or deploy the stabilizer jacks first? Thanks.
Forum Discussion
ford truck guy wrote:
Level and stabilize first... Then deploy the slides
This seems to be what most manufacturers say, but I think it is important that the stabilizers not be over tightened. I think this is easier to do than some folks realize, as I have done it and discovered it when an interior door started binding against the door jam.
I may be wrong, but on my 2002 Sunline trailer, the instructions were to extend the slide (after trailer is level) and then stabilize. I did it that way for 10 years without any slideout problems other than a faulty ground wire on one occasion.
When we got our Minnie, the instructions were stabilize, then extend slide. But, with the reputation of the Lippert slide mechanism in mind, I have continued to do the opposite. I level the trailer, extend the slide out and then stabilize. It eliminates the risk of and torquing of the frame. And, so far (knock on wood!) we have had two camping seasons without and Lippert slide out problems.
BUT....THIS IS JUST WHAT I DO...
It is propbably safer to follower the manufacturer's direction, at least while the unit is under warranty. Just don't over tighten the stabilizers!!
