extending slides in cold weather

[larryn]

opinions/comments,about opening slides in subzero temperatures.I do not have hydraulic slides.

[memtb]

To add to my previous post: we always try (as best we can) to clean slide tops of ice and snow and using treatment on slide seals and gaskets should help with their elasticity and resistance to sticking to slide out surface.

[Dave_H_M]

BO, there are exceptions to every rule.

A couple of winters ago I pulled the slides in on the fifth wheel when it was exactly zero degrees. Cus that was the morning for departure to down south. I had no problems, but did have the heater running for a while for the final prep to hook up.

it was nice to be heading south that morning but I guess i did not answer the OP's question since it was not sub zero. :h

Ouch, on second thought I was retracting and not extending. :S

[memtb]

Over the years we have had: worm-gear driven slides and hydraulic slides. We have ( over the last 25 years) used both in sub-zero F temperatures, with no problems! Maybe, we’ve just been lucky. We don’t hesitate to go camping (boondocking) when it’s cold. We plan on using our class c at or below zero...soon. A post-Christmas visit to see kids/grandkids and a few ice fishing trips. We researched our units prior to purchase, if they can’t handle below zero....we bought the wrong units.

[B_O__Plenty]

Why? If it's below zero you won't be comfortable in the trailer anyway. They just aren't built to be used in those temperatures. Why take a chance on damaging something.

B.O.

[Second_Chance]

We have operated our slides in single-digit temps. However - as D. Steiner stated - my primary concern is making sure there is nothing frozen around the seals so they won't tear when the bubble gaskets separate and the wiper seals slide on the sides and top of the slide.

Rob

[larryn]

We plan to warm up trailer if we do open a slide.

[DSteiner51]

I have not done it in sub zero but I have below freezing. The farther below freezing the longer I have the heat in the camper at approx 70 degrees to increase the chance of the seals being unfrozen so I don’t tear them being frozen to the slide when the slide moves.

[MFL]

I have not, and not likely many can say they operate their slides in sub 0 temps. You asked for opinions, so I will say I would not do this, unless maybe an emergency, have to situation. I have electric rack/pinion, that I've used in around 32 degree temp without issue, other than maybe moving a little slower. The rubber wipers can get plenty stiff, compared to 72+ degrees. Severe cold, IMO, would put extra stress on all moving parts, as well as the motor.

Jerry