Lubricating slide seals

[Sg6923]

Purchased a 3635 RT cardinal w/ 3 slides. I've read some forums that generally say lubrication of seals is not necessary. Correct? If needed, do you spray directly on the seals or on the slide and run in and out a few times?

[Herk7769]

That has not been my experience.
I discovered the horror of seals stuck to the outside wall when my slide would not open last year.

Use a spray especially made for slide seals and a dry lubricant (not grease or oil) for the running gear.

Slide Out Lube & Rubber Seal Conditioner - Product - Camping World

[HIDE OUT]

I have seen people use baby power on them so they don't stick to the walls. haven't tried it yet but going to when I get my new TT . sounds like it will work and besides a little baby powder will never hurt any body.

[cardinal4fun]

A small amout of baby powder will do the job.

[amxpress]

There is a sticker on my Columbus instructing me to inspect the seals every 90 days.
I don't know what for, though.
I also use the spray stuff herk7769 mentioned.

[sideout1961]

Where exactly do you spray? On the seal itself or on the slide body and run the slide in and out?

[jjm901]

During the initial inspection at purchase, I was told by the Tech that all was needed was to spray some WD-40 on the seal itself. With that said.... a product specifically designed for the seal may be better suited.

[Wiscampsin]

I apply a coat of Aerospace 303 twice a year for UV protection.

[18CrewDually]

I too use the seal spray designed for the slide outs. After making sure the seals are free of dirt, you simply shake the can, spray the seal front and back, allow the foam to penetrate for a minute, then wipe the excess with a towel. That's it. You will notice the seals will be more pliable and have a glossy slick appearance, aiding in the travel of the slide across the seal.

[Sg6923]

Thanks for all the advice. I'll be lubricating soon. Another question. The camper has 80 psi E rated Goodyear tires. When we bought it the tech guy made it clear the psi stay at 80. I checked my Michelin LTX, also 80 psi E's, and they were at 70. As they are filled with nitrogen, I took to the local tire store and asked they be topped off. They said tires should never be filled to max pressure cold as pressure increases another 10 or so when hot. I want the max load available for my 5er. Is 80 okay?

[Herk7769]

Originally Posted by Sg6923

They said tires should never be filled to max pressure cold as pressure increases another 10 or so when hot. I want the max load available for my 5er. Is 80 okay?

Find a new "tire guy" this one is clueless.

80 PSI COLD is the correct max load pressure. The fact that pressure goes up as the tire heats up is factored into that cold pressure rating.

Just remember that the tires are only one element that makes up your max gross weight rating on your camper. Axles and frame are also limiting factors.

[Sg6923]

Thanks for the advice. I think the reason he said that is the sticker on the driver side door of my '02 F250 diesel 7.3 L stated 70 psi for the E tire size I have, even though the tires say 80.

[Herk7769]

Originally Posted by Sg6923

Thanks for the advice. I think the reason he said that is the sticker on the driver side door of my '02 F250 diesel 7.3 L stated 70 psi for the E tire size I have, even though the tires say 80.

The door pressure is optimized for RIDE not load. If you need to carry your max rated load without regard to ride comfort (unhitched) use the 80 PSI Cold. If you are just driving around town, you can use the 70 PSI cold without worry.

There are several good threads here on optimizing tire pressures for actual conditions.

[sideout1961]

How do you get to the seals inside the trailer. The wood trim around the slide is pretty close to the ceiling. Do I just spray on a rag and wipe the seal?

[Herk7769]

Originally Posted by sideout1961

Do I just spray on a rag and wipe the seal?

that is all I do. If I can't reach (like under the topper) I spray a paper towel and stick it on a Swifter and wipe it down that way.

[sideout1961]

Great idea Herk. I will keep that one in mind.

[sideout1961]

This has nothing to do with the seals but couldn't find the answer anywhere else. The track that the slide is on both the teeth and shaft. What is used to lube these. Should I use grease or some kind of spray silicone?

[Sg6923]

Well the experts will chime in soon but I believe grease is NOT recommended due to dust/dirt buildup. I use a spray lubricant specific for the gear drives its available at Camping World. Sorry I don't remember the brand.

[Herk7769]

How soon they forget ...

Slide-Out Dry Lube Protectant - Protect All

[sideout1961]

Thanks guys thought I'd seen it somewhere on here but couldn't remember. How often do you perform this?