Partial slide deployment

[CBQ]

I will be using my Canyon Star 3920 at BBQ events where 20x40 is a common site size. With the 10x20 tent I use, it looks like we are going to be about 21' 4" wide.

Is partially opening the living room slide (vs. fully opening it) in narrow spaces for a 2-3 day event a bad idea? How much more likely is it that I will have leaks? Is it going to cause mechanical problems with the slide mechanism?

[Steve N Sal]

I don't know the function on your slides but this would never work in our coach. Besides not opening all the way will leave an air gap and opening around the slide as the gasket will not seat shut allowing insects or possible moisure to enter the rv. Good luck with what you decide.

["007"]

You should be able to open the slide partially but as said you may see space around the bottom of slide where anything could enter.
You maybe able to fill in space but make sure you remove what ever before closing the slide.
Mechanically should not have a problem.

[ronspread]

I think you could stop at Wal-Mart or another general purpose store and get several of the swimming noodles that folks split and put on the outside edge of the slide to prevent head-bumps. These could be forced into the slide's open air space to "keep the bugs and critters out" and insulate so no air escapes or enters. Partially open should be fine mechanically, but depending on the slide it may still be elevated and be a toe banger. Remember to clear everything out before closing. Hopefully, you have an awning over the slide to keep water from building up and entering the room because the top of the awning will be partially inside the coach.

[CBQ]

Thanks for the good suggestions. I partly closed the slide to have a look. The slide does have wiper gaskets on the sides that create a good seal with the wall, but they don't create a tight seal against the windows on the side of the slide.

There is a gasket on the top that seems tighly sealed regardless of the slide position, and there is a slide topper awning in place as well. "007" is right, the biggest gap is on the bottom. I will have to look for something to put in there, maybe those swimming noodles. A small towel would do the trick for the windows, it's not a large gap.

I was mainly worried about damaging the slide. Sounds like that isn't a concern. Of course I will try to find locations where I can open the slide fully, but I am trying to have a plan in case I cannot.