Slide out toppers

[Chris Pastuzyn]

I'm considering getting slide out toppers, Has anyone installed by themselves, They don't look to difficult to do?

[Artspe]

Easy install, but definitely needs two people when installing awning.

[Mike223]

Originally Posted by Artspe

Easy install, but definitely needs two people when installing awning.

I installed mine myself but like said before me two people is easier.
Mike

[SeaDog]

I put them on my rig it is a DIY like others have said a minimum of two people (each strong enough to hold the topper) and best with three. Also two ladders good luck

[Vladivar]

I was considering the same thing - but so many negative comments about how they are more trouble than they are worth are giving me second thoughts.

[rbq]

If you do it I would suggest that you get a hinge drill bit so your holes are drilled correctly. Having another person to help is a good idea.

[SeaDog]

Originally Posted by Vladivar

I was considering the same thing - but so many negative comments about how they are more trouble than they are worth are giving me second thoughts.

I have not read allot of negative reports on toppers and depending on where and the type of camping I consider them to be almost a must. Pine needles and such tear up seals not to mention shade factor and ability to shed water and snow and eliminates the need to climb up on the roof. JMHO

[NMWildcat]

Toppers are one of those accessories that some folks love and others have no use for.
I've helped others install their toppers and it's a hit and miss whether you find solid backing for all the screw holes. We always got them solidly mounted, but had to use alternate anchoring in a few holes.
I will never again have slide toppers on my RVs. Very noisy in the wind, and a storm deposits debris under the topper, then it's lots of fun to get it out. And when the sun rots the canvas like happens to awnings, then I have 4 or 5 to replace instead of one. We use our RV a lot in wooded areas and I rarely have to get on the roof to clean off slides. As far as pine needles and other debris tearing up seals, I have never experienced that. I will remove pine cones, but that's rare.
So take all the comments about toppers, good and bad, and the truth lies somewhere in the middle.

[5picker]

Originally Posted by Vladivar

I was considering the same thing - but so many negative comments about how they are more trouble than they are worth are giving me second thoughts.

Depends on who you ask!

As Scott mentioned some folks wouldn't be without them... others wouldn't have them.

We have had them on our last several 5th wheels and would not be without them again. Very few cons (slight wind noise in very heavy winds) and lots of pros for us.

Self installs are fairly straight forward and easily accomplished.
They are typically less money if you get them factory installed.

Best of luck on the decision.