
Lubricating slide-outs on your camper or RV is essential for a smooth slide-out operation and to prevent damage to the mechanisms. Different manufacturers use different slide systems, but all moving parts need lubrication. Before lubricating, clean the components to be treated, ensuring they are free of debris. You should then apply a light coating of lubricant to all components, being careful not to use too much, as this can cause mess and attract dirt. There are many different lubricants available, but dry lubricants are generally recommended over oily lubricants, as they do not attract dirt and grime.
What You'll Learn
How to lubricate RV slide-out seals
RV slide-outs are a great way to increase your living space at the push of a button. However, regular maintenance is required to keep them functioning smoothly. Lubrication is an essential part of this maintenance, and here is a step-by-step guide to lubricating your RV slide-out seals.
Firstly, it is important to clean the seals. This can be done with a cloth and baby powder, which will help keep the slide-out moving smoothly. Alternatively, you can use a rubber seal conditioner spray, which will also help to prevent premature decaying and other damage. It is recommended to treat your seals with a conditioner every eight weeks. When applying the spray, start with the interior seals, making sure the slide-out is fully retracted, and then move on to the exterior seals. Allow ample time for the seals to absorb the conditioner before moving the slide-out.
In addition to the seals, other components of the slide-out mechanism will also benefit from lubrication. These include the tracks, rollers, and gears. It is important to use a dry lubricant on these components, as thick, oily lubricants can attract dirt and grime, leading to potential damage. A dry powdered spray will create a protective film that repels dirt and grime, while also removing moisture. For the tracks, you can use a silicone spray or a dry moly lubricant. Remember to clean the components before applying any lubricant, and refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions and lubrication points.
It is recommended to lubricate your RV slide-outs at least twice a year, and possibly more frequently depending on the areas you travel in and how often you use your RV. Regular lubrication will ensure that your slide-outs continue to operate smoothly and help to extend their lifespan.
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How to lubricate RV slide-out rollers
RV slide-outs are standard on many RVs, and with the push of a button, you can double your living space. However, issues with your slide-outs can be frustrating. Regular maintenance and lubrication can help extend the life of components and prevent problems.
Steps to Lubricate RV Slide-Out Rollers:
- Clean the Rollers: Before lubricating, it is important to clean the rollers and remove any debris, dirt, or grime. This will ensure that the lubricant can be applied effectively and prevent the buildup of unwanted substances.
- Choose the Right Lubricant: Avoid thick, oily lubricants as they can attract dirt and grime, potentially damaging your slide-out rollers and mechanisms. Instead, opt for a dry lubricant or spray designed specifically for RV slide-outs. These lubricants create a protective film that repels sand, dirt, and grime, helping your slide-outs last longer.
- Refer to the Owner's Manual: Each RV manufacturer may have different lubrication points for the rollers. Check your owner's manual to locate these points and make your job easier.
- Apply the Lubricant: Spray the lubricant at the designated points. Ensure that you apply a light coating to all components. Excess lubricant can drip and cause a mess, and it is also more likely to attract and collect dirt.
- Frequency of Lubrication: RV slide-outs should be lubricated at least twice a year. However, depending on the areas you travel to and the usage of your RV, you may need to lubricate more frequently. Monthly checks are recommended, and re-lubrication can be done if necessary.
- Other Maintenance Tips: In addition to lubrication, keep the seals surrounding your slide-outs well-maintained. Clean them and treat them with a rubber seal conditioner to ensure they remain pliable and weatherproof.
Recommended Products for Lubrication:
- 3-IN-ONE RVcare Slide-Out Silicone Lube: This product is designed to lubricate, waterproof, and prevent rust and corrosion on RV slide-out mechanisms. It dries quickly, lasts long, and is safe for use on metal, rubber, vinyl, and plastic.
- Camco Dry Lube: A highly recommended dry lubricant spray that effectively coats RV slide-out rails.
- Star Brite: Offers both a spray and a liquid lubricant to keep your slide-outs well-maintained.
- Thetford Premium Slide-Out Lubricant: A top brand recommended for lubricating RV slide-outs.
By following these steps and using the recommended products, you can ensure that your RV slide-out rollers are properly lubricated, extending their lifespan and ensuring a smooth and effortless sliding mechanism.
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How to lubricate RV slide rails
RV slide-outs are standard on many RVs, and with the push of a button, you can double your living space. However, issues with your slide-outs can be frustrating. Regular maintenance is important and can save you a lot of headaches and money. Here are some detailed instructions on how to lubricate your RV slide rails.
Firstly, it is important to note that different manufacturers use different slide systems, so it is recommended to refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions. In general, you will want to use a dry lubricant on your slide-out rails. This will ensure that your slide-outs move more easily, smoothly, and effortlessly. Dry lubricants are preferred as they do not attract dirt, grime, and other elements that can build up and cause problems for your slide-out mechanisms. They also create a protective film that blocks sand, dirt, and grime from forming on your rails, helping them last longer.
When choosing a lubricant, avoid thick, oily lubricants as they can attract dirt and grime. Instead, opt for a dry powdered spray that coats your rails and gears with a dry film. This film will protect your rails from rust, dirt, and corrosion. Some recommended products include dry slide-out lube, CRC Power Lube, and Camco dry lubricant spray.
Before lubricating, ensure that the slide-out components are clean and free of debris. This includes parts such as geared racks, cables, and support rams. After cleaning, spray a light coating of lubricant on all gears, slides, cables, and rollers. You may need to move your slide-out in and out to access the entire length of certain components. Refer to your owner's manual to see if there are specific required lubrication areas.
For below and above floor systems that use a rack and pinion system, fully open the room and then spray silicone spray or Dry Moly lubricant onto the track. For bedroom systems, raise the bed board and mattress to access and lubricate the track. If you cannot access the entire track, open and close the slide-out to ensure full lubrication. Lubricate bedroom slide-outs twice a year and below and above floor systems once a month, especially when they are in use.
In addition to lubricating your slide rails, don't forget to also maintain the seals surrounding your slide-out. These rubber seals should be cleaned and treated with a rubber seal conditioner to ensure your RV remains weatherproof. Check for any tears in the seals and replace them if necessary.
By following these instructions and performing regular maintenance, you can keep your RV slide rails well-lubricated and functioning properly for many years to come.
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How to lubricate RV slide windows
RV slide windows can be lubricated using a silicone spray or a dry lubricant. These products will help the windows slide open and closed with ease.
Silicone Spray
Spraying a silicone lubricant on the window tracks will help the window slide smoothly. Silicone spray is also effective at protecting the windows from water and rust.
Dry Lubricant
A dry lubricant will also help the windows slide smoothly and protect them from moisture. This type of lubricant is usually in the form of a dry powdered spray that coats the window tracks with a thin film. This film will keep rust, dirt, and corrosion at bay.
Additional Tips
- It is recommended to lubricate RV slide windows at least twice a year.
- Before lubricating, clean the window tracks to ensure they are free of dirt and debris.
- Avoid using thick, oily lubricants as these can attract dirt and grime, which can cause problems for the window mechanisms.
- Paraffin wax can also be used as a simple and cost-effective lubricant for RV slide windows.
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What to use to lubricate RV slides
RV slide-outs are usually made from metal, and when metal components interact, there is friction. If the force of friction gets significantly high, it may cause the breakdown of the slide-out mechanism, leading to improper or a complete lack of function of your RV's slides. Lubricating the moving parts of the slide-out system reduces friction and wear and tear. Lubrication also helps to prevent corrosion and rusting, which can be caused by exposure to dust, rain, and other environmental pollutants.
When lubricating your RV slide-outs, it is important to use a dry lubricant. This is because thick, oily lubricants attract dirt and grime, which can cause potential damage to your slide-out mechanisms. A dry lubricant will create a protective film that blocks sand, dirt, and grime from forming on your rails, helping them last longer.
There are several dry lubricants on the market that are suitable for RV slide-outs, including:
- 3-IN-ONE RVcare Slide-Out Silicone Lube: This product lubricates, waterproofs, and prevents rust and corrosion on all types of RV slide-out mechanisms. It is safe to use on metal, rubber, vinyl, and plastic.
- Thetford Premium RV Slide-Out Lubricant: This product will protect your slide-outs against moisture, dirt, and rust.
- Camco Slide-Out Lube: This lubricant comes in a 15 Oz container and helps resist dirt, grime, rust, and corrosion.
- CRC Power Lube: This product is recommended by Lippert for lubricating RV slide-outs.
- WD-40 Specialist Dry Lube: This product leaves a very thin film of Teflon-like material, providing very low friction lubrication. However, it will need to be reapplied frequently as it is not durable.
In addition to lubricating the moving parts of the slide-out system, it is also important to pay attention to the seals surrounding your slide-outs. These are important for weatherproofing, and a rubber seal conditioner should be used to treat them.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to lubricate your camper slide-out at least twice a year, and possibly more depending on the areas you travel in. It is also suggested to lubricate the slide-out in the bedroom two times a year and the below and above floor systems once a month, especially when they are in use.
It is recommended to use a dry lubricant or a silicone spray. Avoid using thick, oily lubricants as they attract dirt and grime, which can cause potential damage to your slide-out mechanisms.
Lubricating your camper slide-out can help prevent misalignment, bending, or sticking. It also helps to reduce friction, ensuring the smooth and effortless operation of your slide-out. Additionally, regular lubrication can extend the life of your slide-outs by reducing wear and tear.