Operating Hydraulic Slides in Cold Weather

[Jimbee]

Hey All,

A couple silly questions for Y'all. Is it OK to operate hydraulic slides in cold weather (10-20 degree temps)? Any risk of blowing seals, over stressing pump, etc.?

How about not fully extending the slide? I have to park my camper close to the house, and can only extend the slide about 2/3's of the way out. Will that "confuse" the brains of circuit board into thinking that is it's fully extended travel point after doing it several times? I thought I had read someplace there is a re-learn procedure for these slide outs if they don't fully extend.

Thanks!

[ependydad]

Lippert talks about temps less than 10 degrees in their manual:
https://www.lci1.com/assets/content/support/manuals/Leveling%20and%20Stabilization/CCD_0001521.pdf

In colder temperatures (less than 10° F) the jacks may extend and retract slowly due to the fluid’s molecular
nature. For cold weather operation, fluid specially formulated for low temperatures may be desirable. For a
list of approved fluid specifications, see TI-188.

[memtb]

Jimbee, I certainly cannot speak of all units, but we’ve operated ours at a -20 F. Not often, but have done it with no issues!

[EgorKC]

Not silly questions at all. I have operated ours down to 30 with no noticeable difference. Once had to take them in at about 24 and they were very sluggish. If you slide them out it is best to go all the way to have a good seal.

Greg

[pyoung47]

If it rains snows while out. Frozen water/snow may prevent closing. If closed, frozen rain/snow may prevent opening. Most of these units are marginally engineered for cold weather use.

[Super_Dave]

I have other hydraulic equipment that gets leaky seals in single digit temps but work fine with no leaks once it warms up again. I think in part, the cold causes the seals to shrink a bit which allows a little fluid to get past.

[js218]

I've operated mine in -15 nd colder no problems

[John_S_]

You need to fully extend. No issue with the hydraulics but my Foretravel wanted to go all the way out before bringing it in they said my year that was HWH reccomendation.

[MFL]

Mine are electric, but I would not open a slide just 2/3s of the way, due to not sealing, if you plan to leave that way for any length of time. I would not operate my slides, unless really needed in 15 degree temp, but other opinions vary. The slide will likely work, but IMO added stress and strain.

Jerry