Community Forums

lami_55 · 02-18-2012, 05:00 AM

yesterday i start visiting a few class a mh. i've noticed some of them you can see the cables that pull the slides in and out when the the slides are in. are the mechanism all the same, on one of them you just did not see the cables. my thought is that if you see the cables it must be easier to service and check for wear.

TXiceman · 02-18-2012, 05:03 AM

Some have cables, some do not. Some are mechanical systems and others are hydraulic. Each manufacturer does it differently.

Ken

lami_55 · 02-18-2012, 11:12 PM

which is considered the best and more sturdy

SUMDALUS · 03-08-2012, 05:45 PM

Lami_55,

Very hard to answer your question with a simple answer. Maybe there is no answer...

There are 3 types of operating systems
1. Cable
2. Electric
3. Hydraulic

The type of slide operator that is installed depends on several variables.
1. How long is the slide.
2. How much does the slide weigh.
3. How far will the slide travel outward.
4. Is the slide an above the floor model.
5. Is the slide a flush floor model.

Some are good and some are bad.

They all have their pros and cons. From a tech's viewpoint, I look for smooth and positive movement. No herks and jerks, no fits and starts, and no jaming or binding. And, of course, does the RV come with a complete set of Installation/Service manuals for the slides.

I also check out the operation of all slides from the inside AND the outside. And don't forget to look under the slide outside for indications that the slide is rubbing something wrong and grinding off paint or metal. And based on my last slide job, I will never buy any RV without some kind of a limit switch on the slides. A slide that goes out too far can crack the outside wall, while a slide that comes in too far can easily break something internally.

Hope this helps.