I am researching a new or second hand van (5 wheeler), we determined that a slide out was not to be on the specification list, why - because there will be only two of us, more to go wrong, may let in dust, extra maintenance, extra weight, that tree in the space allotted to us in the park maybe in the way. Can we stop anywhere and have lunch or a cuppa without having to wind out the slide out etc. But , and especially in the second hand market, slide-outs are included, if you have one, would your go and get a new van with one installed, or would you opt for with out.
we have 2nd hand motorhome with slide out ... Had problem soon after delivery ... Worm screw bolt cracked ... Replaced with upgraded bolt. This is basically the most common problem ..... Suggest you find dealer and get a couple of spares just in case. Ours is an Avida 2013 Esperence purchased 1 year old with less than 13000 klms , still under original warranty and service contract. We were told by repairer that common cause is using slideouts on uneven ground and lack of regular maintenance, ie lubrication of the mechanism which the manufacturer orbs repairer can talk to you about....apart from that would do,it all over again .... Enjoy the extra space, but make sure van is level ... We have a small spirit level permanently attached on the motorhome to check the level is OK when we park up. IMO I would only use slide out when camping more than overnight, not recommended to leave out in wind or rain ... However the small limitations are worth the extra space and convenience.
Best of luck and enjoy ...
-- Edited by chaslib on Thursday 12th of March 2015 08:03:02 PM
__________________
The Maccas ....
2013 Avida Esperance Motorhome - based in northern NSW.
We have a slide out, it's now just 3 years old, works as it should and never had any problems with it.
It was not my choice, my good lady wanted it for the extra space it gives, we live full time on the road so yes space is good especially when in poor weather.
I was told most slideout problems occur from sticks and twigs lying unseen on the top and then driven in damaging the seals.
Ours came with a roll out canopy as standard to prevent this and has proven to work, it also gives a better shed of water in rainy conditions. The mechanism in ours is american and pretty well proven over there. It has two seals an inner and an outer and also seals to the wall when in or out.
We have a Jayco caravan with slideout and would find it very hard to go back to a non slide out van. We have had no problems with it but we do get it serviced as part of the annual service on the van.
Geoff and Bev
Can we stop anywhere and have lunch or a cuppa without having to wind out the slide out etc.
There are not many I have seen that you cant. When you go tyre kicking make sure you have a tape measure in your pocket. Measure how far the extension slides out when standing outside. Then go inside and you can measure how far the slide-out slides in. You can then measure if you can get around the stub walls easily enough.
Actually a lot of them are plainly visible how far the unit slides in.
-- Edited by PeterD on Thursday 12th of March 2015 04:26:27 PM
__________________
PeterD Nissan Navara D23 diesel auto, Spaceland pop-top Retired radio and electronics technician. NSW Central Coast.
We have a Jayco Sterling with slide out bed, can pull over anywhere and have a cuppa, if we need the loo, just lift the bed and you can get to the loo. Everytime I wash the van I spray lanolin lubricant on all the tracks and rubbers. I wax the sides of the slide out to help reduce the friction. I also make certain van is level before operating slideout.
Thank you all, I've also had a look on the net and found many positive comments. I also think there must be some naysayers out there but haven't commented.
