Slide out supports

smw57 · 08-18-2016, 05:40 PM

Do any of you use supports under your slideouts? I see them advertised on-line and in camping stores, but I've never actually seen anyone using them when camping.

Are they a good idea or a gimmick?

Thanks!

**Lloyd** · 08-18-2016, 06:30 PM

They're not recommended.
Stop and think about what might happen to the slide out if a tire went flat on that side when you weren't around or at night.

Burgy · 08-18-2016, 07:12 PM

Some brands do recommend them if the slide is out a long time don't they? Doesn't the slide mechanism help define that as well?

**mark5w** · 08-18-2016, 08:03 PM

Never heard a recommendation like that from any Rv brands I ever looked at.

Russb · 08-18-2016, 08:03 PM

My owner's manual does recommend the supports. Our unit is parked on concrete so I'm not concerned about settling. I just snug them up.

BostonDave · 08-23-2016, 10:17 AM

I've only seen them used on seasonal units which are parked more or less permanently. When my trailer is parked at home I just bring in the slide a) for the winter, b) when we are expecting an extra heavy rain storm. Not really sure I have to for the rain as it's been out for many storms without ever having yet a leak, but just do so as an extra precaution.

Dayle1 · 08-23-2016, 03:19 PM

The outboard weight of the slideout is what keeps the seal tight. So when using those supports, there is a possibility of a gap in the seal at the top. Especially since some of the trailer weight is still being carried by the leaf springs and affected by occupant movement. Anyway there is a greater chance for rain leaks, etc. I would only use them if the trailer was on blocks with zero weight on the suspension, and even then only tighten them by hand.

woodwalker · 08-23-2016, 06:39 PM

I have used them off and on over the years and with this last trailer have not used them. There has been no difference with or without. I personally think they are just another gimic to purchase

**mark5w** · 08-23-2016, 07:59 PM

A gimmick like the 5th wheel tripod hitch support.

Burgy · 08-24-2016, 06:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mark5w

A gimmick like the 5th wheel tripod hitch support.

Really?
I dont have a 5'er but I had always figured those would reduce bounce and sway in the front of the camper.

**Lloyd** · 08-24-2016, 06:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mark5w

A gimmick like the 5th wheel tripod hitch support.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Burgy

Really?
I dont have a 5'er but I had always figured those would reduce bounce and sway in the front of the camper.

Yup. The 5th wheel tripod support is a waste of money. I had one for our HitchHiker--I gave it away.

fhenn · 08-24-2016, 08:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lloyd

Yup. The 5th wheel tripod support is a waste of money. I had one for our HitchHiker--I gave it away.

Have one in the Garage free to the first person to come get it

travelin texans · 08-24-2016, 08:32 AM

I think the tripod helped a bit, but not enough to haul the heavy sucker around & have to wrestle it in place, also gave mine away. On the slide supports, no way!

Loneoak · 08-24-2016, 08:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Burgy

Really?
I dont have a 5'er but I had always figured those would reduce bounce and sway in the front of the camper.

I have heard the same thing - another gimmick.

**mark5w** · 08-24-2016, 12:41 PM

A few of my fellow campers had them and got rid of them. Didn't do much and felt the money could be better spent on JT's Strong Arm Jack Stabilizer. JT's Strong Arm Jack Stabilizers

woodwalker · 08-24-2016, 01:58 PM

I have 4 slide supports in storage for anyone that wants them. I installed steadyfast.stabilizers.com and they got rid of 95% of the movement in the trailer same idea as JT strong arms had to add even if off topic

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