Slide Fix Failure!

Today didn't turn out as planned but I thought I would share where I fell short and what I think the end fix will be. Slides on the RV are never fun to have stuck and not working. Once I get the metal runners for the slide made and the proper thickness I think it will make the slide last even longer and more reliable.

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[ourrvsunsets]

Smart move testing with one before putting them all in. As always your content is gold!

[gerhartkaiser]

I like the idea for the roller tracks. One option that I have used for "tracks" when I was a machine systems builder is HDPE. It is available in a 1/8" x 24" x 48" sheet from McMaster Carr- 8619K76 for $23 and change. It is easily machined with common wood working tools and is relative durable. With five rails to support the load it should hold up ok- just a suggestion....

[sethcooley]

Fascinating. I’m surprised that the thinner stuff didn’t work. Maybe if all 5 rollers had the thinner one, there wouldn’t be so much pressure on that one? Anyhow, good luck and keep us posted!

[tywebb]

Jared as always I love your detail in your explanations. I agree with others on HDPE and do all 5 so you have a level load. I appreciate your wins and misses. Doing something is always better than doing nothing and complaining.

[EnergyProX]

Have the same system and same failure underneath. I honestly didn't think of metal strips. Thanks for helping me get through the learning curve.

[dougclark]

Thanks for sharing your learning opportunity. Our trailer has no slides, so I didn't know about this roller damage issue. It's something to keep an eye on if/when we upgrade to a larger rig.

[JJ-Journeys]

Jared thanks for sharing, hopefully you’ll show us your finished product when you get it completed.

[michaelgarcia]

Like others have said I don't see it as a failure as much as trying to discover the 'sweet spot' for the correct density of the metal strip to resolve the issue. In a nutshell, you identified the problem and found the solution. You just need the right materials to complete the fix. Keep up the great work!!

[charlesyoungblood]

To admit when things did not work out is not an easy thing for a lot of us (that’s me). We tend to justify and put blame on something other than our selves. You could have decided not to even post the video. So, you are the man! Oh! I did notice it doesn’t appear that you have slide skis on the sides. Critical item for water not getting to the floor.

[prouddk]

You seem to be always thinking ahead. It’s a great idea Jared. We continue to learn more and more from you with each video! Thank you

[krflyguy]

Thanks for the info. I had the Vroom installed after your video on it. I will be keeping an eye out now on the bottom of the slide I had it installed on.

[DavidJones-suob]

This video encapsulates one of the reasons that we did NOT want a slide when we were searching for our first travel trailer! RVs have enough problems without needing to deal with issues regarding slides!!

[janicecrockett]

I was the administrative support for a university scientific group for 28 years and if I learned anything it is that just because something doesn't turn out the way you expect it to it is still a win because you learned something from the experience. Saw many students work unmerciful hours in the lab and not get the results they hoped for. But, it was still a big win for them.

[Millard-vods]

I had a similar problem with my 5th wheel. I used 20 gauge stainless on my slides and they’ve held up for the last 3 years. Also, do the countersink and I also put silicone on the ski to assist with waterproofing. Good Luck..

[davelauraphillips]

IMHO, Just another example of a manufacturing "shortcut" that causes damage that they likely would consider "normal wear". It could be eliminated on the assembly line at relatively low cost and minimal added weight, but it becomes a problem for the owner.

[haroldb]

Actually I’m a bit surprised that Vroom didn’t add these roller pads, the price they charge and knew about this issue, they should have suggested and installed them.

[tonydemore]

I've had 2 RVs with the Schwintek system. The first was a Lance trailer with a 7 foot slide. In the 4 years I had the Lance I never had a problem. The second RV was a Tiffin Wayfarer with a 15 foot slide. In less than 6 months one of the tracks got so chewed up that the slide no longer worked. My take from these experiences is that the Schwintek system is OK for smaller, lighter slides, but not so good for larger, heavier slides. Your Vroom upgrade looks to be a significant improvement and will probably last much longer. Good luck.

[electricamish]

I watched another install video of this new slide gear system, and they installed stainless strips on all rollers for the customer they were doing, they even had molded ones for the slide ends that wrapped around the edge, maybe reach out to them for the steel strips they are installing.

[robertroth]

Wondering why Vroom didn't do this at the time of installation.

[robertburgess]

I used 20 gauge on our Montana when I did that to ours.