Hand-Cranking Your 1997 Prowler Camper: A Step-By-Step Guide

If you're looking to hand-crank a 1997 Prowler camper, you may be out of luck as some sources suggest that the 1997 models did not have electric slide-outs. However, there are a few things you can try. First, check your owner's manual to see if it provides any guidance on locating the access point for hand cranking. If you don't have access to the manual, try contacting the manufacturer or a dealer, or look for it online. You can also check for a toggle switch inside the trailer, usually near the entry door, as some models may have electrically operated slide-outs. If you can't find a switch, look for a small hole or access point near the slide-outs, as this is where the crank would typically be inserted. Keep in mind that cranking the slide-outs manually can be very difficult, and you may need to disconnect the motor first.

How to find the crank handle

To find the crank handle for a 1997 Prowler camper, you can try searching for it online on websites such as Amazon, Hanna Trailer Supply, or RV forums. When searching online, make sure to include specific keywords such as "1997 Prowler camper crank handle" or "pop-up camper crank handle" to find relevant results. Additionally, you can refer to the owner's manual of your camper to identify the access point and crank mechanism.

If you cannot find the crank handle online, you may need to visit a specialised store for RV or camping equipment. These stores typically carry a variety of camper parts and accessories, including crank handles. When visiting the store, make sure to bring along the make, model, and year of your camper to ensure you find the correct crank handle.

Another option is to contact the dealer or previous owner of your camper. They may have knowledge of where to find the crank handle or even have a spare one that you can purchase or borrow. It is worth reaching out to them for assistance, especially if you recently purchased the camper from them.

Additionally, if you are unable to locate the crank handle, you can consider purchasing a universal crank handle that fits various camper models. These handles are designed to be compatible with multiple brands and can be a temporary solution until you find the original crank handle.

Lastly, if your camper is an older model, it may be helpful to search for crank handles compatible with older campers. Some websites offer replacement parts for vintage or discontinued models, which could be a viable option if your camper is no longer in production.

Slide-outs: manual vs electric

Slide-outs are a great feature of RVs, allowing you to increase your living space when parked up. They can be operated manually or electrically, and each has its pros and cons.

Manual Slide-Outs

Manual slide-outs are operated by a hand crank. This can be a physical workout, and it may take some time to extend or retract the slide-out fully. You will need to locate the access point for the crank, which is often a small hole near the slide-out. On some models, it may be necessary to disconnect the motor before cranking. This process can be time-consuming and cumbersome, especially if you are setting up camp after a long day of travelling.

Electric Slide-Outs

Electric slide-outs are operated by a toggle switch, usually located inside the trailer near the entry door. They are convenient and quick to use, and you can extend or retract the slide-out with minimal effort. The electric mechanism is powered by the trailer's 12-volt battery, and it is important to ensure that the battery is in good condition. If your battery is low, you can use jumper cables to get power from your car battery. Additionally, plugging the trailer into electricity will usually provide enough power to operate the slide-out.

While manual slide-outs can be a challenge to operate, they are a reliable backup option if your electric mechanism is not working. Electric slide-outs offer convenience and speed, but they rely on a power source. It is beneficial to understand both systems and be prepared for any situation, especially when camping off-grid or in remote locations.

How to open slide-outs

To open the slide-outs of a 1997 Prowler camper, you will need to find the access point and crank. The slide-outs are likely manually operated, as the 1997 models probably didn't have electric slide-outs.

First, you need to locate the access point for the crank. Look around the slide-out on the bottom or sides. It may be a small hole, possibly with a plug or screw that pops out, and the crank goes into this hole.

If you cannot locate the access point, refer to the owner's manual, which should detail the process for your specific model. You can also try contacting the previous owner or dealer, who should be able to show you how to operate the slide-outs.

If your Prowler has electric slide-outs, they are likely operated by a toggle switch inside the trailer, usually near the entry door. Ensure the door remains open while operating the slide-outs to ease the burden on the motor. Check that your trailer battery is in good condition, and use jumper cables to connect to your car battery if necessary.

If your slide-outs are stuck, you may need to manually override the system to retract them before taking your camper to a service centre for a full diagnosis.

How to close slide-outs

To close the slide-outs of your 1997 Prowler camper, you will need to identify the type of slide-out mechanism in your RV. There are three main types: cable-operated slides, Schwintek system (worm gear) slides, and rack and pinion (electric through-frame) slides.

Once you have identified the type of slide-out, you can follow the specific instructions for manual retraction. Here is a general step-by-step guide for each type:

Cable-Operated Slides:

• Locate the slide-out motor, usually on top of the slide-out with cables and pulleys attached.
• Fit a #3 square bit into the end of the motor.
• Connect a flexible extension to the square bit and secure the other end into a portable drill.
• Drive counter-clockwise to bring the slide-out in until it is flush with the RV's exterior wall.

Schwintek System (Worm Gear) Slides:

• Locate the slide-out's electronic control box, which could be in an underneath storage compartment or inside the coach.
• Bypass the control box by following the instructions on it or in your owner's manual. Typically, this involves pushing a reset button a certain number of times.
• Depress the normal slide-out switch to bring it in.

Rack and Pinion (Electric Through-Frame) Slides:

Version 1:

• Locate the extension rod attached to the electric actuator motor.
• Unhook the battery to prevent electric backfeed that could damage the system.
• Connect a manual override crank tool to the extension rod.
• Turn the crank handle clockwise to retract the slide-out until it is flush with the exterior RV wall.

Version 2:

• Locate the hex nut on the slide-out's electric actuator motor, which may require sliding underneath the RV or cutting a hole in the underbelly.
• Use a ratchet with an appropriately sized fitting for the hex nut.
• Turn the ratchet clockwise to retract the slide.

Before attempting to manually close the slide-outs, ensure that you have checked for any obstructions and that nothing is in the way of the slide, both inside and outside the RV. Additionally, refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions and recommendations for your particular model.

It is worth noting that manually retracting the slide-outs is typically done in case of an emergency, such as a stuck slide, and it is recommended to have them inspected by a professional afterward.

How to find the access point

To hand-crank a 1997 Prowler camper, you will first need to find the access point. This can vary depending on the model of your camper, but there are a few common locations you can check.

Firstly, check the slide-outs. These are usually operated electrically, but if you need to crank them manually, look for a small hole or a round hole near the slide-out, possibly with a plug that pops out or screws out. This is where the crank goes.

If you cannot find the access point near the slide-outs, try looking in the wheel well. On some models, the manual slide attachment point is located in the wheel well opposite the slide-out. It will be a small hole where you can insert the crank.

If you still cannot locate the access point, refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions on finding the crank access point for your particular model of 1997 Prowler camper. You can also try contacting the manufacturer or a dealer for assistance, or seek help from online forums and communities dedicated to RVs and campers.

Frequently asked questions