Slides:
TIM: Slides sure have come along way the past
few years, eh Al, old buddy?
AL: You got it Tim! The electric motor with
rack & pinion gears has improved the process a lot.
TIM: Ya – we don’t see them in for repairs, like
we used to with the old hydraulic system technology.
But there are some basic ideas people should know
when using them Al.
AL: Especially now that more and more people
want slides – we even have units with 4 slides.
TIM: Most people know the basics, like
checking inside and outside for obstacles before
engaging the slide. But, something I like to point
out is, when putting out your slide, you should
check the location of shore power posts and sewer
connections, to make sure you will have access once
slides are out.
AL: Right on Tim! Have someone stand outside
to ensure the path of the slide is safe. And agree“ahead of time” what signals you will use. If you
have a sliding window on the slide, it’s a good idea
to open that window, so you can hear instructions
too (make sure you use family orientated language).
In fact…Inexpensive, 2 way Radios are great for
both communicating while backing into a campsite
and while putting out slides.
TIM: Sometimes when you pull over or are in
a campground, where there is a lot of foot traffic, it
is a good idea to place illuminating tape (surveyor’s
tape) around the extended box of the bedroom slide
to stop people from walking into the slide.
AL: Good idea Tim! Another idea is to keep
1-2 towels handy to dry the interior of the top
of the slide when you bring it in. A slide topper
(slide awning) you will keep water & debris to a
minimum.
TIM: If ever a slide doesn’t retract (it rarely
happens) and you’ve checked the batteries and
shore power, inspect the fuses to the slide to ensure
the system is OK. Virtually all units have a manual
operation option. If necessary and you are feeling
stuck…. just give us a call and we may have some
suggestions for you.
AL: Most seals around the slides are black. These
are made with an UV inhibitor to protect the seal
from sun and adverse weather. Use only soap and
water on those seals. Some seals though are white.
These may require periodic lubrication to save seals
from drying.
TIM: Ya – it’s a good idead to spray some “Dry
Lube” to the gears and tracks under the slide box, on
a regular basis, for maximum ease of operation.
Drop in, call or email us if you have any questions –
The coffee is always on. Have fun RVing!
CALL ANY OF THE FINE SERVICE REPS AT ARBUTUS RV
Marianne in Sidney at 655-1119 or toll-free 1-888-272-8888
Rolf in Mill Bay at 743-3800 or toll-free 1-800-665-5581
Dwayne or Rick in Nanaimo at 245-0282 or toll-free 1-877-245-0282
Paul or Doug in Courtenay at 337-2174 or toll-free 1-866-330-2174