Prevent RV Slide Damage & Avoid Repairs with These Tips!!

Welcome back everybody! In today's video I overview several tips and suggestions to help you better understand RV slide out while shopping and keep them out of the shop once you own your RV! Below are some links to a few of the items and products I mention in the video as well!
RV Slide Lubricants:
► amzn.to/3AUWj6x
RV Slide Seal Conditioner
► amzn.to/3LUQhsY
Slide System Benefits & Drawbacks:
► • Comparing RV Slide Out...
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#upkeep #maintenance #information #RVNerd #RV #rvlife #rving #travel #camp #camping #camper #campinglife #homeonwheels
00:00 Avoiding RV Slide Damage
01:12 Identifying Slide Types
02:54 Use when Closed?
05:57 Towable vs. Motorized
06:27 Keep it Clean!
09:07 Go ALL The Way!!
10:34 Lube it?
13:11 Seal Upkeep
14:43 Jack Stands?
16:07 Click SUBSCRIBE NOW for More!!

[@stevez340]

The one thing that I always do before we leave the campsite is go up on the roof with a broom to sweep any debris off the slide out roof and I can say that there is almost always something, that’s why I’m so passionate about ladders being a standard feature on RVs😕

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

It’s so smart and safer for fellow drivers if there was something like a stick up there

[@cullinan18]

And that's why I only looked at trailers with a permanently attached ladder.

[@Gina-ew7nf]

Easier to use a cordless (or electric) small lightweight leaf blower (also great as a quick camp firestarter). On rainy days, broom is better on roof, but most dry days a quick blow off is so much quicker.

[@SaltyDog69]

@@Gina-ew7nfExactly what I use, a small battery operated blower.

[@stevez340]

@@Gina-ew7nf Great idea, as long as you have a ladder to get on the roof👍

[@juangallegos7178]

Mr. Nerd, you definitely deserve a pay raise. I follow a few Rv KZbinrs and not any other one goes into the thorough detail in their videos. Kudos to you!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Wow, thanks!

[@greghomestead8366]

We've had 3 different travel trailers since 2004, all with super slides and always eat in the slide at the dinette with the slide closed while traveling. That's 19 years of no issues. That said I weigh 180 and wife is 130 . There must be some amount of weight it will hold otherwise are you telling me you also can't store anything under the dinette booth seats, behind theater seats, in the fridge?????🤔 180 + 130 = 310 + 100 Miscellaneous= 410. Apparently 410 is OK. Greg in Michigan Ps I also drank out of a green garden hose as a kid and I think I'm okay........😲 I think.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I think many slides are actually capable But they’re not tested And if the mfg doesn’t guarantee for it.. then how can _anyone?_

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I think many slides are actually capable But they’re not tested And if the mfg doesn’t guarantee for it.. then how can _anyone?_

[@atwowheelguy]

When I bought my camper, I knew nothing about slides. I have subsequently learned a lot about them. I thank my guardian angel that I bought one WITHOUT a slide.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad it’s working well for you

[@RickGoodman1911]

Lubricants on the Schwintek slides can be a contentious subject. I would not lubricate the worm gear track as that can attract debris that can foul up the cog that rides in them. I would squirt some PTFE lubricant behind the seal at the top and bottom where the blocks ride on the track. You’ve got dissimilar materials rubbing on each other (plastic, brass, aluminum) and they need a light film to keep everything moving. LCI doesn’t recommend lubricants but I know quite a few RV techs who have replaced H tracks and drive systems due to no lubricant over the years. Slide seal lubricants are great to use. I use CRC brand. YMMV

[@peekay17822]

100% Agreed with this statement! I was having some significant issues with my Schwintek slide not wanting to extend or retract. I used PTFE lubricant (at the advisement of My Rv Works, Inc. video) and now my slide works great. I was REALLY getting frustrated with the slide prior to this and brought it to the dealer for repair (they didn't fix it after months in the shop). So, my advice to Schwintek slide owners is if you are getting some binding or uneven extension/retraction of the slide, use the lubricant in the tracks as Rick Goodman has stated. Made all the world of difference and it enabled me to once again appreciate the extra room the slide provides in our trailer without having to always be worried about whether it will work properly. I also use the CRC brand.

[@Berrypancakes229]

⁠@@peekay17822 can you please specify the name of the lubricant you use.

[@DeltaEchoZulu]

@@Berrypancakes229 kzbin.info/www/bejne/d2HQqmxmjJh0ga8si=mUS2mLGweIkoQxl_

[@WindTherapy-rb1zs]

I hit the LIKE button cause Josh is the only RV NERD.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

😊 ☺️

[@rv_at_the_beach2603]

Another great video Uncle Josh. We almost never get important info like this for our "homes on wheels". A real service to the RV community.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Ty 🙏🏻

[@sgardner4156]

Great video (and jokes 😂)! Thank you

[@newenglandrvadventures]

Wish manufacturers would get creative with large no slide floor plans, 102” wide bodies and tall ceilings. 😊

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Same

[@StratRider]

This could be one of my favorite videos on RV's

[@lindarickert7290]

Thanks Josh! Always so much great information! I do appreciate your tips and advice

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

My pleasure!

[@Jim12291958]

Always an educational video. Thanks for the time to make these.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad you like them!

[@jaro1800]

Way to go. This is a great video. Not only for taking the fear out of having a slide, but explaining the difference and how to use or not use the slides. Whether you know them all or not, it is always good to be reminded of this information. We just purchased a new 5th wheel that has both the rack n pinion and a schwintek. So thank you. I also love that you talk about lubrication for the slides and seals. You might want to do on where you or the tech guys actually use the product for those of us who are still fairly new. It’s good to have a visual perspective. Keep them coming. Thanks for all you do.

[@danielnestorick9942]

Your videos are always helpful but this one I am saving in my library. Such great information! Thanks for posting!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad it was helpful!

[@stevenwilson5428]

Appreciate the advice on maintaining a slide out knowledge is a powerful tool. Keep putting out the information and always happy camping

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

You bet

[@phizzyglitterswirl9251]

Thank you for this. I think I have moved to the no slide camp based on this video. Glad I learned this stuff before buying something. You are the best.

[@kathevanlerberg8651]

Thanks Josh! I love the way you entertain us while educating!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

My pleasure!

[@007nadineL]

He soooo funny Grow a full beard pls 🙏 😩

[@ronaldspins]

@ 13:40 Uncle Gary actually switched cans and set you up...................... I have learned a lot here ... thanks

[@luistravieso2837]

For anyone wanting to buy an Rv read your contract carefully the manufacturer of the Rv wants you to give up your rights to sue if they sell you a defective unit. Also check your roof before you sign the contract Keystone rv will tell you a poorly installed membrane with blisters all over it is acceptable to them. When all Rv techs will tell you air bubbles are signs off the roof not glued down properly.

[@charlesjgillies]

I appreciate all the great information you put out. Keep up the great work 👍

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

TY!

[@salliannebrown8129]

I like the 3-in-1 brand of RV rubber seal and window trim products.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Same. I like easy

[@KennethHandySr404]

I am disabled and can't get on the roof of my motorhome. The tip about using a cell phone and selfie stick to check slideout tops is a great idea for me. Thanks to you and thanks to the guy who told you about it. God bless. Ken

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

he has a lot more helpful videos like that as well

[@LindaDutton2022]

Where to find video link?

[@Nytoav]

Brilliant! Thanks for drawing my attention to that!

[@robertroth287]

Informative and practical. Thanks, Josh.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad it was helpful!

[@michaelerickson3626]

Thanks for the Info! I was wondering about those slide Jack stands! You answered my questions! I appreciate your videos and knowledge you pass along! It’s appreciated!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad to help!

[@michaelerickson3626]

I bought my WhiteHawk from General RV, biggest mistake I ever made. Would like to trade it in and get a new travel trailer and I just may come to Bish’s just because you seem to actually give a shit. Thanks Josh!

[@davehoward2791]

Very good info. Been RVing for 35 years and learned a few things from this video. Thank you, liked & subbed!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Thanks for the sub!

[@sigmet5713]

Excellent advice as always! Thanks Uncle Josh!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

My pleasure!

[@sammysmirh3889]

Great video Josh, thanks so much for the tip!!!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

You bet!

[@joeazy322]

Thank you so much for this video Josh! I thought about stealth camping in a travel trailer with the slide closed thinking it was fully supported. Now I know what disaster i could have caused.

[@cajunnathan4586]

NOW YOUR INFORMATION IS GETTING VALUABLE !! Thx!!!!😎

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad you think so!

[@calebcrossley8254]

Thank you so much for these great videos that help give us, the end user, great information to make owning an RV enjoyable.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad it was helpful!

[@richardsmelker2946]

You are appreciated! Great info. I've used 3in1 slide spray and had great results with it. I also think all trailers with slides need to have a ladder - there's always debris on the slide top. Install slide toppers if you can, they help!

[@JustManda77]

Good advice. I spray my slide seals to condition them and always make sure they are flushed to slide. My have twisted a bit but I fixed it before it was damaged.

[@w1tjl]

I gotta say I am even more happy I insisted on a camp trailer WITHOUT a slide out. Problems looking for a place to happen. My wife and myself (and occasional grandkids) have more than enough room without one. Heartland Mallard Pathfinder PB17. Thanks Nerd!

[@tankscrittersandurbanhomes5579]

The flex on that slide floor was astonishing. My 99 slide box doesn't move at all standing on it. I couldn't believe what you showed. Mind blown.

[@shellydean2918]

Hank you Josh for this great information!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

My pleasure

[@johnjames2716]

I heard that lemon pledge is recommended for spraying on the rubber slide seals. Cheap and does a great job keeping the seals pliable and protected

[@bobmiscavage4282]

Excellent points. Good video Josh.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@GregWarga]

Great vid Josh. Also thanks for the heads up last week on the new season of The Rightest Gemstones. Buy the way you are mentioned on many other peoples rv vids.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I am?!

[@thepinaclan0061]

Thanks for the tips. I just got my first trailler, and this really helps .

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

My pleasure and congratulations! Mind dropping me a quick review at g.page/r/CdPcitNVx2nDEAg/review for the helping hand by chance? I'd sure appreciate it!

[@mcgilm69]

While I'm not so passionate that I would die on a hill, I do lubricate the cable system on my trailer. A little white lithium grease on the pulleys, seems to help, and the lithium lubricant doesn't attract dirt and debris.

[@philipgerry5228]

Great explanation of the how and why of slides.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Ty Glad it was helpful

[@mirares782]

Thank you Josh 😊 can you also talk about the different in bottom linings.

[@danelen]

This is another very informative, excellent video Josh! I've never owned a slider and it makes total sense as you explained it but never thought about how these arent designed to be rigid when closed. This will be such helpful info to know for my next purchase.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad it was helpful!

[@steveharvey5982]

Love all the info, Thank you!!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

You are so welcome!

[@marcydobbs1653]

Good advice. Thanks for sharing. Preventive maintenance is key

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

You bet

[@patriciacrews3231]

You are the BEST! Thanks for the info.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Happy to help!

[@enigkotik]

I love this guy! Thank you for the good videos bro!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

My pleasure!

[@BluJnGrl]

Thanks so much for this video! No one has ever mentioned using seal conditioner. We’re going to do that asap!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad it was helpful!

[@TheeObbyD]

Im actually going to full time a small rv for work very soon and this video answered all the questions i had. Thanks Uncle Josh!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad to help

[@solangebstunglips4134]

Always interesting and informative thank you❤

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Thanks for watching!

[@carolynnhunsucker6264]

Great video; I have it saved to watch again.. thanks

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad it helped

[@oldengineer1519]

Good points. For slides that use the Schwintek system there is more than leaking seals to be concerned about by partially extending or retracting them. Schwintek slides synchronize the motors only when fully retracted or extended. By stopping the slide in between you can lose synchronization and end up with an uneven slide. If bad enough this can prevent the slide from going in or out and require the manual process of disconnecting the motors and pushing the slide in from the outside until it can be repaired.

[@chriskojali4527]

Disconnecting the motors could be impossible without expertise too. I won’t be buying another schwintek equipped RV.

[@dogrsqr]

ALWAYS run a Schwintek slide in one continuous motion to its full-open or full-closed position. When it hits its full-whichever position, continue to hold the operating switch for about 3 seconds AFTER the slide stops moving and you've heard the motors stop. This allows the motors to re-synchronize themselves which helps keep the slide from getting mis-aligned.

[@mikearbon6196]

​@@dogrsqrbuy

[@Berrypancakes229]

@@dogrsqrhow do you prevent from leaks?

[@dogrsqr]

@@Berrypancakes229 Leaks are almost always a deal problem. If you don't run the slide all the way in/out (any slide, not just Schwintek), the seal may kind of curl, creating an easy entry for water. If you do have a leak, check your seals. Most can be adjusted slightly. And keep them lubricated! Seal lube is cheap compared to needing a seal replaced.

[@citizenfirst5826]

Great info for newbies to the towable world!!!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad it was helpful!

[@sitchad]

Your comment to make sure the slide is clear of debris or items is very smart. In our last Class A we ended up with a water bottle jammed under the corner edge of the slide on the inside. pulled the wood molding right off the bottom of the slide. Slides stand, no way. I confirmed that with Newmar and they said absolutely not, warranty voided.

[@steveearnshaw5426]

At the end of the camping season, be sure to remove heavy items stored underneath the dinette seats. The additional weight of those cast iron pans and Dutch oven could cause some deflection.

[@ShawnPatterson402]

excellent information. Very informative. thank you,

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad it was helpful!

[@roannathephoenix8561]

Always interesting information.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad you think so!

[@universaltrust2921]

I’ve watched, researched, and learned about RVs for years. Your “Good to Know” segments cover things I’ve never heard before. Thank You! RVing is our dream about to be realized! 🙂🙏🏼

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad to be of service!

[@lifestationexpresslinda9425]

Great advice, much appreciated!!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad it was helpful!

[@danmichaels1562]

Thank you very much! Keep up the good work!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Thank you too!

[@user-bw2mn8xz3y]

You hit the nail on the head! We are newbie’s and badly want a slide out but are petrified by all the bad feedback. Thank you for helping 😁

[@Berrypancakes229]

We’re not newbie’s and been camping for years and have to have at least one slide in the seating area. We like slides.

[@billperrey7934]

Stay away they are all the same. They do all the above mentioned no matter what you do or the amount of money you spend on the trailer.

[@crawford4321]

I’m so grateful for this video! From the selfie stick hack to the maintenance tips. I understood to look look for cracks in the seals but didn’t know there was a product I could use to keep it pliable. So thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. God bless!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Tony_in_AZ]

Great information here Josh. thanks. I am giddy (again) for the Industry update video that is coming up soon..

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Yeah Tuesday I think

[@DaveG1223]

Just came across this video. What a greatly informative video! Thank you.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad it was helpful!

[@romundathompson5114]

I’m an RV owner and I like your content. Great info. Thanks!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Thanks for watching! I love having owners share their experiences as well!

[@kipizmora]

Thanks for all the info. I learned so much from your channel. You got a great approach to your job. Keep your videos funny 😁 Thank you.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Awesome, thank you!

[@ragamuffinaba]

Love all this info!!!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad it was helpful!

[@brendansheehan6272]

Great information! Thanks!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad it was helpful!

[@gabuhler]

Josh, YOU are the BEST !!!!! ... I watch all of your videos. They are always packed with GREAT information. Slides in Class A are manufactured to be used when closed. I am sure this adds weight and additional cost to make it. The chairs in our slides have seat belts for people to secure themselves when the vehicle is moving down the road.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad you like them!

[@shawndickmann8215]

I had no idea about the integrity of slides when closed, thanks Josh 👍

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Happy to help

[@charlesklaus6290]

I would be happy to pay extra for a towable RV that the manufacturer has built and tested and warranted the slideout for use in the closed position like a motorized RV. Im sure I'm not the only one that feels this way. Please Josh pass this thought on to the manufacturers. Thanks again for your insights!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

👍🏻

[@nans969]

Wonderful information. Thankyou.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad it was helpful!

[@alexstewart6836]

This video saved me money! I was thinking about getting the slide supports cuz im a newbie and full-time in my trailer but didnt even think about the rv moving and the slide staying still. All your videos are helping me a lot

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad it was helpful! Mind dropping me a review at g.page/r/CdPcitNVx2nDEAg/review by chance? It'll still cost you nothing lol :)

[@kristivillanueva1060]

Great information, thank you!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad it was helpful!

[@docholiday7072]

2 things I always do when I pull up to my site: 1. Check for power at the post with a voltage tester, and 2. Walk the site, measure out from obstacles (to slide out when extended - mine is 36" on driver side) and place orange cones so I know how to position rv and that the slideout will not hit said obstacles when I slide it out.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Voltage tester is such a good idea Open grounds.. hot skin rvs.. scary stuff

[@bobjeffrey8863]

WE LOVED our Rack/Pinion slide unit,, and GREASE it every season

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Ty

[@gloriamontoya5068]

Thank you ! You are a great teacher

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

You are welcome!

[@fm71450]

Wow! No one told us not to sit on / use the slide out when it is in the “CLOSED” position. THANK YOU! Keep up the great work!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I try!

[@dynac8012]

With so many differing opinions on social media about these issues, it's good to have a professional like you, Josh, clear things up. Thanks!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Hey, I’ll never claim to be an authority or expert or anything like that. I always encourage people to get info from multiple sources. I do hope I’m able to help people more often than not.

[@darrylm3627]

😄👍🏿Good Stuff, Great Tips

[@GaryBrownrigg]

Sharing to my groups!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Ty

[@LAGg9035]

Great info for anyone looking to buy an RV. Maintenance and upkeep to extend your investment.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad it was helpful!

[@riseandshinecampers]

When Josh the RV nerd tells us to Like, Subscribe, Share, we do all three. -Rise and Shine Campers Larry and Jillian

[@user-tv2ki8cw9n]

Great video. Thank you

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad you liked it!

[@COMMANDER-ONE]

I have a slide out. I don’t think I would ever want one without it. I have a rack and pinion, and it has never failed me, however, I do all of the tips that nerd man tells me to.! 😅

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

They’re hard to give up once you’ve had one Like when you went to broadband instead of dial up No going back

[@COMMANDER-ONE]

@@JoshtheRVNerd 😆 truth

[@jayneperry457]

Such great information

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad you think so!

[@brianm1916]

Good info Uncle Josh!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad it was helpful!

[@janrandles8683]

Thank you, Josh.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

My pleasure!

[@kevinverville8608]

I like the WD-40 slide and gasket aerosol products.

[@ChiroSean1]

Another great video. We bought our first RV this past fall. Just realized our new Jayco Eagle 5th wheel has all three different types of slide mechanisms. I knew you had to periodically lube the seals but did not know that about the rack and pinion slide mechanisms. Thanks

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad to be of service! Mind dropping me a quick review at g.page/r/CdPcitNVx2nDEAg/review for the helping hand?

[@larrybenedict4984]

Thanks so much for the really good info. Not that I’ve done this, but had no idea that you shouldn’t use the slide out if it’s fully retracted!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad to be of service! :)

[@JimBartges]

Sound advice. I appreciate that, thank you.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad it was helpful!

[@johncecere1477]

Thank you for the information about not using the slide out when it is in. Confirmed it with the manufacture and it could pull the dinette away from the wall. Our sales person used the fact that you could use it when in as a selling point. Great information from you as always!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad to help!

[@mrJRReich]

Thank you, very informative 👍🏼

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad it was helpful!

[@lilysobotta2666]

Thank you for good &though info🎉

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Always welcome

[@jasonSC01]

I was just about to buy some slide out jacks, you have now changed my mind, & I totally understand why I shouldn't use them now. THANKS!!!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I stand by it. I don’t think they’re a great idea

[@TheCynthiacross]

I was also, thanks

[@ernestoalvarez4669]

awesome video.. Thank you so much

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad you liked it!

[@codyschwoch5451]

In my area that I am located, there was a camper with a slide out that the guy sold because it ended up getting tipped over and the slide out basically retracted back in. He thought that it broke he didn’t break the gears had to be replaced later on because they cracked no leaks, and as long as you replace the gaskets, it will never leak or give you any problems it doesn’t take rocket science to have common sense. Just make sure you take care of it don’t have the mentality of its disposable just like all cars that’s the only thing I gotta say.

[@janicethoni8421]

Josh, thank you for all the info on slide outs and when to not use them as well as maintenance. I have not seen this info anywhere else!!!!!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

You’re welcome. I try!

[@chrismella1511]

Great video and worth a sub. 👍🏻

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Welcome aboard!

[@gadroberts]

I’m so glad you said NOT to lubricant the Schwintech system just as Lippert says not to lubricate. You are on top of your game. Thanks Josh, we’ve been watching you for years.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I try. I certainly don't get it all right but I try