I have been trying to find information on lubricating the (Rack and Pinion Type) slides on my fifth wheel. I watched a video on youtube where the guy used a spray grease on them, so I went and bought a can from the local dealer. Searching again this morning I found the factory manual for these slides.
On page 4 it says NO lubrication is necessary, and that they should just be kept clean. I tend to think that the grease may collect dust and dirt. Perhaps a dry graphite would be better, or nothing as the manual states? Has anyone had issues with their slides relating to lube or lack of it? Thanks, Greg.
Use graphite on an M16 and it will jam sure as hell. This stuff stays put.
DRI SLIDE
Molybdenum Disulfide Colloidal spray. Back in the days of T-Rex when I finished doing a Tommylift motor repair for a van trailer I would lube the slide-up door for a bonus. Owners almost fell on their butt when the door zipped upward almost effortlessly. 45 years ago.
One of the other things that will greatly improve slide performance is slide SEAL conditioner and lube. It will help the seals last longer as well as lessening the drag that dry seals create when the slides move in and out. I use Thetford- the foamy type.
I use Slip Plate dry graphite spray on my rack and pinion slide. Other brands available. Goes on like paint. Slide definitely runs smoother and less groaning noise. Seems to reduce rust also.
Regardless of what Lippert says (makers of some of the worst engineered junk on the planet), your slide will move noticeably easier when it's lubricated.
It is the one in the url above. Sorry, I don't know how to link to the PDF. It will come up if you cut and paste it. Anyways, It is a "rack and pinion guide system, utilizing an electric ball screw actuator to move the room assembly. The motor drives the ball screw in a forward and backward motion to drive the slide room in and out."
LCI makes about 10 different types of slide mechanism's. EACH has its own parameters of lube and points to lube. Which type LCI slide do you have? Doug