RV Slide Out Making Clicking Noise? Here Is The Fix
Despite delivering the best camping experience, RVs may be a pain when the slide-outs don’t slide the way you want them to.
A typical issue with all RVs is a clicking sound while extending the slide out. Depending on the reason for the click, the remedy might range from do-it-yourself to rapid intervention.
RV slideout issues have afflicted all of us at some point. This post will explain the most frequent RV slide-out clicking causes, what you can do about them, and how to avoid future slide-out troubles.
Here are some of the most likely reasons that could cause the clicking noise.
- Low battery
- Lack of lubrication
- Wrong lubrication
- Worn out parts
- Debris
- Failed motor
- System leak
Do RV Slide-Outs Often Fail?
Yes, it is quite a common phenomenon when it comes to RVs. Especially those which are not well maintained. Modern RVs come out with two types of slides outs, these are mechanical and electrical.
Although both can produce a clicking noise when at fault, it is easier to pinpoint the fault with the electrical system. As a mechanical system has more moving parts it is prone to making a clicking nose.
There are many parts that can give out once their service life expires. Getting any heavy knock can also put parts out of place which could cause the clicking noise. In the electrical system, it is the motor and battery that cause the clicking noise most of the time.
Why my RV slide-out is making a clicking noise
There are multiple ways to deal with this problem. The whys and how’s will be briefly described in this section below.
1. Low Battery
All most all modern RVs have been using battery power to extend slide out. When the battery contains enough power to push the slide all the way, often time the parts produce a clicking noise. Because generated power is not enough to give all the parts the necessary push, they require to do their job.
Once you hear the clicking noise check the battery voltage level. It should be between 100-120 volts. If the voltage is under 100 should consider replacing or recharging the battery.
2. Failed Motor
Another root cause of the clicking noise is the failed motor. When a motor fails it cannot rotate quite easily and often misses the task it is supposed to do at a particular time. Hence it produces a clicking sound.
In this case, the motor will need repair or replacement depending on what happened to it.
3. Lack of Lubrication
There are a lot of parts involved in the slide-out mechanism, be it mechanical or electrical. If there is a lack of lubrication, the friction increases. Friction-induced parts often cause the clicking noise. If the battery is performing, then the next thing you should check is the lubrication.
You should not wait until there are symptoms of lack of lubrication. Proper lubrication will not only stop the clicking noise but also grant the parts longer service life. But, make sure you pick the right lube for your RV.
4. Wrong Lubrication
Another rookie mistake that can cause the clicking noise is using the wrong lubrication. RVs utilize different parts and mechanisms to implement the extending system. You have to use a proper lubricant to keep the slide-out up and running.
The only solution is to use the proper lubricant. You will find the right lubricant specified in the instruction manual. If you wish to switch to some other, then ask for an expert’s advice first.
5. Debris
Often times debris gets stuck inside the parts and causes the clicking noise. It depends on the design of the slide-out and RV and what type of debris can get in.
The fix is to find out the debris and take it out. But, often you will find that washing the slide-out system is easier. So, if all else fails in the run of getting the debris out, you can consider washing the whole system. If you are certain debris got stuck in the system don’t hesitate to ask an expert’s advice.
6. Worn-out Parts
Like everything else, parts in an RV are prone to wear and tear. The parts that make up the slide are even more so. Especially, the gears wear out pretty quickly if they are not well maintained. Worn-out gears often miss the mark, it this incident causes the clicking noise.
The challenge here is to find out the particular part and then repair or change it. The best course of action would be to take it to a reputed repair shop. Or, you can take charge if you know what you are doing.
7. System Leak
The system leak mostly happens in slide-out that uses a hydraulic system. If the hydraulics system gets leaked then it will cause the click sound when the system is engaged. Because as the system gets engaged in extending the slide out, the air or liquid content of the hydraulic would spill out.
You should head out to the repair shop as soon as you notice this problem. It is a serious problem that cannot only damage the system but also cause an accident. It is best to leave this repair to professionals.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Extending Slide Out
Judging the location
You make your decision based on a few factors:
- Can I extend the slide in an unobtrusive manner?
- Is the slide-out going to appear out of place in this parking lot?
Using the questions above, if you answer no to the first question or yes to the second question, it is best not to show your slider.
Keep the RV leveled
When employing slide-outs, it is very vital to keep your RV level. When utilized on an unleveled RV, the tracks that hold the slide-outs might get twisted.
Furthermore, if you utilize the slide-outs when your RV is not properly balanced, the functioning mechanisms might soon get damaged.
Fully Extend Slide-Outs
RV slide-outs are intended to be walked in and inhabited while completely extended; the tracks and supports will not engage unless the slide-out is fully extended.
If you try to open a slide-out partially, you may cause damage to the external or internal walls, as well as the inside or outside of the slide-out floor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why Is My RV making a clicking noise?
The clicking and pinging sounds are most likely relays opening and shutting or cooling fans turning on and off.
Do you need to lubricate an RV slide-out?
Lubrication of the rollers and rails is required on a regular basis to avoid wear and to protect the metal components from rust and corrosion.
How often to lubricate RV slide-out seals?
Lubricate the bedroom slide-out twice a year, and the below and above-floor systems once a month, especially while they’re in use.
How do I know if my slide-out motor is bad?
When you press the slideout switch, you should see 12 or 120 volts at the motor, depending on the voltage of your motor. If the meter indicates that the motor is receiving power but not moving, the problem is most likely with the motor, which must be serviced or replaced.
Conclusion
Despite delivering the best camping experience, RVs may be a pain when the slide-outs don’t slide the way we want them to. If any of the aforementioned problems arise, you will at least know where to start and when to seek expert help.
And now you know everything there is to know about RV slide-out difficulties clicking sounds and how to remedy them. It’s best to get it over with as quickly as possible because no one enjoys noise!
