Archive for March, 2010

RV Slide out systems require 12 Volt DC electricity from your RV Batteries to operate so check the voltage of your battery and charge if/as needed BEFORE any troubleshooting.

If there is no response when you operate the slide out switch, check for blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker. It could be in the ‘house’ fuse/breaker panel, around the battery compartment or in the power line at the motor.

There two basic types of RV slide out systems, hydraulic and mechanical.

Hydraulic RV slide out mechanisms use a motor-driven hydraulic pump to actuate a hydraulic ram which pushes out or pulls in the slide out. The direction is controlled by a combination of valves.

In addition to electrical problems outlined above, hydraulic slides can fail due to low hydraulic fluid level, fluid leaks and defective valves.

There are two basic types of mechanical RV slide out systems, screw-jack and rack and pinion.

The screw jack slide out systems generally utilize the same components used in fifth wheel landing gear only placed horizontally.

Rack and Pinion RV Slide Out System

Rack and pinion slide out system manufacturers use different configurations but the graphic shows generally how they work.

In addition to electrical problems, mechanical slide out systems will fail due to broken shear pins, gears and clutches.

If the slide out moves slow or jerks when moving, check for binding around the wall and ceiling the slide out passes through. Look for any objects that don’t belong there. Using caution not to cut yourself, run your fingers around the inner and outer seals, between the slide and the RVs wall opening, top and sides. NYJim says he’s seen tree branches and other items… a fishing pole, a wet tightly rolled T-Shirt, beer cans, used fireworks displays, and a “lost” Winegard TV Antenna… lodged between the top of the slide and the opposing wall, causing the whole room to come to a stand-still!

If there is no obvious reason for the binding it’s probably time to contact an RV repair center. It could be the slide out is out of adjustment and needs re-aligned.

Most slide out systems provide a way to manually operate the slide out if problems arise.

For hydraulic systems this usually requires relieving pressure in the hydraulic ram and physically pushing the slide out… ask some friends to help you.

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This tip is offered by the Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds

When it comes to camping, the earlier you make your reservations at your favorite campground, the better. As many campers discover, campgrounds often fill up quickly during the summer season. The best time to make camping reservations is just before spring, especially if you plan to camp on a major holiday weekend. If the campground of your choice is open seasonally, you’ll want to pay attention to when it reopens and react accordingly. Make your reservations as soon as you know what days you’re going.

Not only does each campground offer something different, but each camp site often offers something different. Advanced reservations allow you to get a prime camping site, depending on what amenities you like to take advantage of. Water lovers may want to camp near lakes, hikers may choose to be close to trails — if you book early enough, you may be able to select your ideal location. Ask the campground staff questions about the different sites to ensure you get one that suits your needs and wants.

There are over 1,000 campgrounds in Michigan, located near popular destinations, along major tourist routes and even in metropolitan areas. You can stop — without the high cost of hotels — to fish, barbeque, or spend time with your family. Many campgrounds are like resorts, with pools, playgrounds, game rooms and more. If you’re still looking for the perfect campground to stay at this year, visit www.marvac.org and use the site’s searchable database of quality campgrounds. Simply select “Campgrounds” under “Member Listings” and you can browse campgrounds by region, amenities offered and more.

The Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds (MARVAC) is a statewide, non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging growth in the recreation vehicle and private campground industries while contributing to the quality of Michigan tourism. For more information, visit MARVAC’s Web site, www.marvac.org. MARVAC, 2222 Association Drive, Okemos, Mich. 48864-5978; 517.349.8881.