Engine must be running to bring slides in - but what if the engine won't start?

[vsheetz]

New to me coach and first RV with slides. Engine must be running and park brake engaged to move the slides. Why? And if the engine won't start, slides are out, and you need a tow to a repair shop? Is there a way to over ride the engine running requirement?

[fredaevans]

Probably not. Slides probably are run off a 12 volt system and need lots of 'juice' to run the motor(s). That said, if you're hooked to 'shore power' they should work?

[njs42]

Good question. First time I have ever heard this, but there is a first time for everything.

Is that requirement in the manual or written in the instructions; or is it just what happens?

If it is not written but the slides do not come in without the engine running then maybe the battery is too weak to move the slides? Perhaps the slides need some adjustment are "hanging up" a bit and not moving smoothly requiring too much energy?

What happens to the slides or have you tried when you are plugged in as suggested before?

Slides can be put in manually so that might answer your question about towing etc; But this scenario you describe IMHO just does not make much sense.

I'm staying tuned to hear what other Pace Arrow folks have to say.

[Bruce C]

I put my slides in and out quite alot and not always with the engine running. If you put your ignition switch in the accessory side on the switch I think your slides will come in or out, mine do.

[CLIFFTALL]

I have Power Gear Electric Slideouts. Here is the manual http://support.powergearus.com/techdocs/82-S0140-00.pdf .

They can be operated as stated and the manual does not state that the engine must be started. When this question came up in the past I emailed Power Gear and they said the engine Should be running to insure proper voltage. I now do it that way.

[Chaffeekid]

If that is what the "Salesman" said, disregard it. I had a 2002 Pace Arrow, and the engine DID NOT have to be running to move the slides. Now if the batteries are down, and you are not plugged into shore power, yep, the engine would have to be running, or you could start the generator.
If you are plugged into shore power, you should have no problem moving the slides.
That 37A is a great layout, I really liked the all in one shower. Mine was on the workhorse chassis, and it was great.

Happy Trails
Jim

[corjaguar]

I am reading out of my manual......"NOTE: We recommend that you KEEP THE ENGINE RUNNING WHILE EXTENDING OR RETRACTING SLIDEOUT ROOMS so the engine alternator can provide maximum power for the proper operation of the slideout mechanism".
Another point is level the coach prior to extending the slides.....I have seen people put the slides out before they level.

[CLIFFTALL]

Originally Posted by corjaguar

I am reading out of my manual......"NOTE: We recommend that you KEEP THE ENGINE RUNNING WHILE EXTENDING OR RETRACTING SLIDEOUT ROOMS so the engine alternator can provide maximum power for the proper operation of the slideout mechanism".
Another point is level the coach prior to extending the slides.....I have seen people put the slides out before they level.

What system do you have and what year make and model is your RV?

[Chaffeekid]

Originally Posted by corjaguar

I am reading out of my manual......"NOTE: We recommend that you KEEP THE ENGINE RUNNING WHILE EXTENDING OR RETRACTING SLIDEOUT ROOMS so the engine alternator can provide maximum power for the proper operation of the slideout mechanism".
Another point is level the coach prior to extending the slides.....I have seen people put the slides out before they level.

Next time you are on a sales lot, look at the units, some of thse lots are far from level and all the slides are out, or they will put them out for you to look. Your manual probably ASSUMES that you are not plugged into SHORE power. It could also say start the generator, but again if you are plugged into "Adaquate" shore power, not Aunt Lucey's 120 volt extension cord to her house 200 feet away, your slides will work fine without the engine running, if they don't, you may have a problem

Happy trails
Jim
Just got called to breakfast, TA TA

[corjaguar]

Originally Posted by Clifftall

What system do you have and what year make and model is your RV?

We have a 2010 35P Winnebago Adventurer......someone also mentioned " what happens if you can't start your coach" I carry a portable battery pack just in case I need to jump my car or coach. I have been able to help others in CG that needed a jump for the car, I never use my car to jump anyone....the battery pack is the tool you should never leave home without.

[CLIFFTALL]

Originally Posted by corjaguar

We have a 2010 35P Winnebago Adventurer......someone also mentioned " what happens if you can't start your coach" I carry a portable battery pack just in case I need to jump my car or coach. I have been able to help others in CG that needed a jump for the car, I never use my car to jump anyone....the battery pack is the tool you should never leave home without.

Is your system ( slideout ) elec or hydraulic ?

[Dunner]

I don't think I've ever open of closed my slides or leveled with the motor running. Batteries somewhat self recover from short bursts of usage.

[pacearrow]

I have an '05 PA 37A, and have always needed the engine running (and P brake engaged) to move the slides. Would love to hear a way to move them without engine on if it's possible. Thanks!

[Benny367]

Originally Posted by vsheetz

New to me coach and first RV with slides. Engine must be running and park brake engaged to move the slides. Why? And if the engine won't start, slides are out, and you need a tow to a repair shop? Is there a way to over ride the engine running requirement?

Interesting how the different RV manufacturers do things! My RV (Holiday Rambler Admiral) is just the opposite! it WILL NOT allow the slides to be operated with the engine running! I confirmed this in my owners manual, it is a safety feature that prevents inadvertent deployment of the slides if the vehicle is moving. (And even if your not moving and the engine is just idling and you're in park, you still cannot move the slides, the engine must be off)