How to Lubricate Slide Out On RV – Quick and Simple Guide

Lubricating the slide out on your RV regularly is essential to keep it functioning smoothly. A sticky slide out can get stuck halfway or require a lot of force to open and close. Proper lubrication prevents wear and tear and also reduces annoying squeaking noises. This comprehensive guide shows RV owners how to properly lubricate slide outs in a few easy steps.

Overview of Lubricating RV Slide Outs

Lubricating the slide out involves spraying a specialized lubricant on the main friction points. This reduces friction allowing the slide out to glide smoothly when opening and closing. Here are some key benefits:

• Prevents the slide out from getting stuck halfway or failing to close completely. This avoids expensive repairs.
• Minimizes wear and tear on the slide out mechanisms. Less friction means longer lifespan.
• Eliminates squeaking and creaking noises when operating the slide out. Makes use quieter.
• Allows the slide out to open and close effortlessly with minimal force. Less strain on the motors.
• Protects the rubber seals from drying out and cracking. Keeps weatherproofing intact.

RV slide outs should be lubricated at least every 6 months or once a year. It takes only 10-15 minutes to do it yourself. The right lubricant and following the proper technique is important.

What You’ll Need

Lubricating slide outs is a quick DIY job if you have the right supplies. Here are the items you’ll need:

• RV slide out lubricant – Use a specialized lubricant made specifically for slide out applications. Do not use WD-40 or general purpose lubricating oils.
• Lint-free cloths – For applying the lubricant and wiping away any excess. Old t-shirts or microfiber cloths work well.
• Flashlight – To illuminate the inner slide out mechanisms. A headlamp also works if you need hands-free lighting.
• Protective gloves – Prevents getting the lubricant on your hands. Nitrile gloves work best.
• Manufacturers guide – Consult the owners manual for any specific lubrication instructions.

Quality slide out lubricant sprays from brands like Valterra, Camco, or Thetford are readily available on Amazon or at most RV parts stores. Avoid old, thickened lubricants as they may jam rather than help the slide out.

How to Lubricate RV Slide Outs – Step-by-Step

Lubricating slide outs involves accessing the underside mechanisms and applying lubricant to the main friction points. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Park on a Level Surface

• Park the RV on a flat and level surface when lubricating the slide outs. This allows the mechanisms to be fully extended and accessed easier.

Step 2: Extend the Slide Out Fully

• Extend the slide out fully to expose the underside rollers and gears. This also spreads the seals to access the inner rubbing points.

Step 3: Wipe Away Dirt and Debris

• Use a dry lint-free cloth to wipe away any built up dirt, road grime or old lubricant from the moving parts.

Step 4: Spray Lubricant on the Friction Points

• Use the spray lubricant generously on the sliders, rollers and gears under the slide out.
• Also spray lubricant along the inner rails that the slide out rolls over.
• Lubricate any rubber seals and gaskets around the edges.

Step 5: Operate the Slide Out

• Push the slide out in and out a few times to work the lubricant into the mechanisms. Fully extend it again for the next steps.

Step 6: Lubricate the Gears and Chains

• Use the flashlight to locate the drive gears, sprockets and chains inside the underbelly compartments.
• Spray or wipe lubricant over the moving parts.

Step 7: Wipe Away Excess Lubricant

• Use a clean dry cloth to wipe away any dripping, splattered or excessive lubricant from the slide out and RV underbelly.
• The lubricated parts should be wet but not dripping.

Step 8: Close the Slide Out

• Retract the slide out back into travel position. Wipe up any leaked lubricant again.

Step 9: Seal and Store Lubricant

• Seal up the lubricant spray can and store it away from high heat. Place it with your RV supplies for the next use.

Step 10: Wash Hands

• Wash your hands with soap and water to remove any lubricant. Proper cleanup prevents greasy doorknobs and surfaces.

And that’s it! Just 10 easy steps to keep your RV slide outs sliding smoothly. Taking a few minutes twice a year to lubricate the moving parts can prevent thousands in repair costs.

Tips for Lubricating Slide Outs

Here are some additional tips to properly lubricate RV slide outs:

• Consult your owners manual for the recommended lubricants and methods for your specific RV make and model.
• Park the RV out of direct sunlight. Heat causes the lubricant to run off before penetrating the mechanisms.
• Use a plastic scraper or putty knife to remove any hardened gunk before lubricating.
• Spray lubricant liberally along the entire length of the inner slide out rails and gaskets.
• Lubricate any stabilizer arms, linkages and cables under the slide out.
• Slide outs that get heavy use may need lubricating more frequently than twice a year.
• Make lubricating the slide outs part of your regular RV maintenance schedule.
• Listen for squeaking and grinding noises which indicate the slide out needs lubrication.
• If the slide out still drags or sticks after lubricating, the problem may require mechanical service.

Regular DIY lubrication goes a long way towards keeping slide outs functioning properly. But don’t hesitate to get professional service if lubrication fails to restore smooth operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Summary

Regularly lubricating the moving parts of RV slide outs is essential preventative maintenance. A properly lubricated slide out glides in and out smoothly with minimal effort. Just a quick spray application twice a year prevents expensive repairs down the road. Follow the steps outlined above using quality RV slide out lubricant. With proper DIY lubrication, your slide outs will continue to provide years of trouble-free use.