Slideout rubber edge question

[gitpicker2009]

Is there a particular lubricant anyone recommends to spray on the large rubber slide seals? It seems that sometimes they don't "deploy" all the way out- I mean they're sort of folded on themselves when the slide is out. I thought about WD40:)
But seriously, is there a need to do this so the friction of the slide passing against the rubber weather edge is reduced and if so, what do you use?

thanks

[Charlie_D_]

TucsonJim wrote:
I use this twice a year:

Rubber Seal Spray

Thetford supplies a wide range of RV products and I have used this same lube and seems to work well. The ingredients say it contains mineral oil and liquefied petroleum gas. I am aware of the recommendations of many who say not to use petroleum products but this stuff does not cause the rubber to shed the carbon black the rubber contains. For that reason I don't believe it is an issue. Beside, anything that lubricates your insides has to be good for lubricating your RV.:)

[N-Trouble]

nycsteve wrote:
Camping World carries a lube made for slideout seals.

Probably the same stuff you can buy at an auto part store that has been re-labeled but at 2X the price.

[brulaz]

Any auto store or the auto section of big boxes has a selection of stuff for treating rubber car seals. I use something called "Gummi Pflege" that comes from Germany. Keeps the rubber nice and pliable. Be sure to wash/wipe them first.

[nycsteve]

Camping World carries a lube made for slideout seals.

[MN_Ben]

I heard the 303 aerospace spray is used on them. This is what i purchased for mine.

[TucsonJim]

I use this twice a year:

Rubber Seal Spray

[newman_fulltime]

Dry lube sold in the rv section at walmart

[N-Trouble]

Baby powder. Don't use WD40 as it contains solvents that will slowly destroy rubber.

[Reddog1]

Moved from the TC Forum for more input.

Wayne
Moderator

[downtheroad]

Not WD40 it will deteriorate the rubber.
If I use anything and if I even remember to do it, I sometimes spray some 303 Protectant on them.

But, if they do not fold out I just reach up and fold them the rest of the way.

[hotjag1]

I haven't done this yet, but I have read that many people put baby powder on a cloth(in a sock)and rub it on the seals. That sounds logical since the side of the slides aren't going to stick to baby powder and should keep the seals soft.

[korbe]

I will sometimes help them get started.

[jimh406]

From what I've read, mostly, they should just be cleaned. I don't use anything.

I wouldn't use any petroleum based products for sure on rubber.