Storing the RV with slides In or OUT

**wallymann** · 03-31-2021, 03:36 PM

I'm guessing by shear # of observations, that "somewhere or someone" recommends storing RV with slides OUT. Anyone know the reason, or has seen any real difference in either practice? Thanks, Wally

**huntindog** · 03-31-2021, 03:42 PM

Originally Posted by wallymann

I'm guessing by shear # of observations, that "somewhere or someone" recommends storing RV with slides OUT. Anyone know the reason, or has seen any real difference in either practice? Thanks, Wally

The seals will last longer if the slides are kept in.

**wallymann** · 03-31-2021, 03:43 PM

That was my thought too! Thanks!

**boyscout** · 03-31-2021, 03:53 PM

Originally Posted by huntindog

The seals will last longer if the slides are kept in.

@wallyman so will the slide toppers and slide roofs. Probably also metal parts of slide rails. Maybe parts of hydraulics (if equipped). Likely side window seals. Where have you seen all the arguments for storing with the slides out? I'm surprised that notion is popular.

**wallymann** · 03-31-2021, 04:04 PM

Just driving around, noticing that when they have room, most the "stored" RVs have their slides out. It may be that people want frequent access to stored RV, made easier by leaving the slides out. IDK. Thanks for the response!

**Calbar** · 03-31-2021, 04:25 PM

Originally Posted by wallymann

I'm guessing by shear # of observations, that "somewhere or someone" recommends storing RV with slides OUT. Anyone know the reason, or has seen any real difference in either practice? Thanks, Wally

My 297RSTS is stored with the slides in all the time. I don't see any benefit to exposing the slide toppers, slide roof and side windows to the weather if I don't have to. As well if for some reason the slide doesn't come out it is so much easier to tow the trailer for repair than it would be if the slide got stuck when it was out. Plus as others have stated the seals last longer as well.

Rob

**wallymann** · 03-31-2021, 04:27 PM

All great points, thks!

**Canyonlight** · 03-31-2021, 04:28 PM

And if one can prevent any type of damage to slide by having it retracted - damage such as from a vehicle, kids bikes, mower, vandals, and lord knows what else, this damage can be prevented or minimized significantly.

Dan

**wallymann** · 03-31-2021, 04:38 PM

A BIG reason I don't is the Miller moth invasion here occurring most springs. Even shut up tight the RV still suffers a significant invasion...no matter what I do, moth balls ect....

**Txfivver** · 03-31-2021, 05:29 PM

I leave the bedroom slide and the street side living room slide out if it's going to freeze, like it did here last month. These two slides partially block the furnace vents in those areas. Luckily I have indoor storage so it's not an issue for a few days. The rest of the time it's definitely slides in.