Camper Slide Outs: How Do They Work?

RV slide-outs, also known as slides, slide rooms, tip-outs, or bump-outs, are a great way to increase the living space of your RV. They are typically operated through an electrical system, but can also be hydraulic or manual. The slide-out is the actual section of the RV that moves in and out, often including a dining or seating area, and sometimes even a bedroom.

RV slide-outs work by changing from a retracted position to an extended one and vice versa. They can usually be controlled with a simple push of a button, but it's important to remember to only extend the slide-out when your RV is parked, as driving with the slide-out extended can be dangerous.

There are several different types of RV slide-outs, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common type is the rack and pinion system, which is affordable, reliable, and doesn't require a lot of force or maintenance. Other types include cable and pulley systems, Schwintek slides, and hydraulic slides.

Overall, RV slide-outs are a great way to enhance the living space of your RV, but they do require regular maintenance and come with certain drawbacks, such as potential leaks and complex repair processes.

Slide outs can be powered by electricity, hydraulics, or manually

Hydraulic slide outs are more complex than electric systems but are more powerful, making them perfect for larger, heavier slide rooms. They are also faster and can be more cost-effective if your RV has multiple slide outs, as they only require one motor.

Manual slide outs are also an option, though less common. These require more elbow grease to push or pull the slide out along its tracks.

Slide outs can add up to 3 feet of width to an RV

Slide-outs, also known as slides, slide rooms, tip-outs, or bump-outs, are a common feature in modern RVs. They can add up to 3 feet of width to an RV, significantly increasing the living space. This is a huge benefit, as RVs typically have limited space, being only 8 feet wide.

Slide-outs are cut-out portions of the RV that can be extended outwards to provide more room when parked and retracted inwards when driving. This is an important distinction, as driving with the slide-outs extended can be dangerous and cause damage to the RV.

There are different types of slide-out mechanisms, but the most common and reliable is the rack and pinion system. This system uses a circular gear that spins and catches onto a linear track, moving the slide-out in and out. It is affordable, requires little force to operate, and has few moving parts, reducing the chances of breakage.

Other types of slide-out mechanisms include cable and pulley systems, Schwintek slides, and hydraulic slides. Cable and pulley systems are lightweight and can handle heavier slide-outs, but they are more expensive and protrude into the RV, reducing space. Schwintek slides are designed for lightweight and shallow slide-outs and are affordable, but they have a reputation for malfunctioning when used with heavier slides. Hydraulic slides, on the other hand, are more powerful and suitable for larger, heavier slide-outs. They are faster than electric systems but more complex and prone to issues with their valves, pumps, and hydraulic lines.

Overall, slide-outs offer a great way to increase living space in an RV, but they also come with some drawbacks. They require maintenance, have thinner walls, compromise the structural integrity of the RV, and can leak. Additionally, the added weight of slide-outs can affect the steering and balance of the vehicle.

Slide outs can be added to bedrooms, kitchens, living rooms, and bathrooms

Slide-outs are a great way to extend your living space in a camper. They can be added to bedrooms, kitchens, living rooms, and bathrooms, providing more square footage and a roomier feel. Here's how they work in each of these spaces:

Bedrooms

Bedroom slide-outs can provide extra space for a larger bed or additional storage. When retracted, the bed may need to fold up or be stored in a space-saving manner. The slide-out mechanism typically involves electric or hydraulic motors, gears, and rails, allowing the room to extend and retract smoothly.

Kitchens

Kitchen slide-outs can offer more counter space, extra storage, or even room for additional appliances. The extra space can make cooking and meal preparation much more comfortable and enjoyable. As with other slide-outs, it is important to ensure proper sealing to prevent leaks and pest intrusion.

Living Rooms

Living room slide-outs can create a more spacious and comfortable area for relaxation and entertainment. They can accommodate larger furniture, such as sofas, and provide a clear walking path. Living room slide-outs can also benefit from slide-out toppers, which provide shade and protection from the elements.

Bathrooms

Bathroom slide-outs can address one of the most common concerns in campers: easy access to the bathroom, even when the slide-out is retracted. This addition can make a significant difference in comfort and convenience, especially for long-term camping trips. Bathroom slide-outs may also include features like retractable fabric or metal covers for added privacy and protection.

Slide-outs in these areas of the camper can greatly enhance the overall living experience, providing more space and flexibility. However, it is important to consider the potential challenges, such as weight distribution, sealing, and maintenance, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable camping experience.

Slide outs can weigh up to 1000-1500 pounds

The weight of slide outs is a significant factor in the overall weight of an RV, and this can impact the type of tow vehicle required. The gross weight of the RV, including the slide outs, must be within the capacity of the tow vehicle. Slide outs can increase the dry weight, requiring a larger tow vehicle. Therefore, it is imperative to ensure that your truck is rated for the correct weight, taking into account both the dry weight and the wet weight (which includes added elements like water, luggage, and appliances).

The weight capacity of slide outs varies depending on their size and location, with front-end slides often having more capacity than rear-end slides. Additionally, the location of heavier features like water tanks and galleys within the RV can influence the weight limit of the slide out. For example, if these heavier features are at the front, a slide out with a larger weight limit can be placed at the rear.

Luxury Class A motor coaches and full-time-oriented fifth wheels often have bigger slide outs that can hold weights of up to 4000 pounds. These are referred to as "super slides". On the other hand, retro motorhomes or travel trailers with slide outs were typically not designed to hold a lot of weight, and their capacity may be lower.

It is important to note that slide outs should not be used for storage. They are designed for specific purposes like lounging, dining, or sleeping, and overloading them with items can lead to motor burnout and other issues.

Slide outs require regular maintenance to keep them working properly

Beyond having proper voltage and paying attention, slide maintenance is simple. Slide mechanisms should be cleaned at least once a year as they are exposed to the elements when extended. This can be done with a clean, dry or damp microfiber rag. Compressed air can also be used to blow away any dirt.

The next step is to thoroughly inspect the slide mechanisms. Seals should be the first thing to inspect as they are crucial for keeping the outside out. There are two sets of seals for each slide, inner and outer, so all four sides should be checked for trapped debris or tears. Seals should also be checked for dryness and cracking. Lubrication and conditioning are also important for keeping the slides working as they should.

With regular care paid to the RV slide out, it will continue to extend the interior space of the RV for many adventures to come.

Frequently asked questions