Install Slide Toppers
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Logistics Pro
Joined: Mar 2010
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From: NC
Install Slide Toppers
My Surveyor did not come with slide toppers, I have 3 slides but one cannot have a topper because the awning goes over it.
I am scheduled to take it in for warranty work in a couple of weeks and I was considering toppers for the 2 left side slides, the dealer quoted $800 P&L for the install. Are toppers worth it? My driveway is wide open, no trees and the slides are out most of the time, we do also get winds. Is this something I can do myself? The DW wants a second A/C, I can install it but the budget does not allow both.
I am scheduled to take it in for warranty work in a couple of weeks and I was considering toppers for the 2 left side slides, the dealer quoted $800 P&L for the install. Are toppers worth it? My driveway is wide open, no trees and the slides are out most of the time, we do also get winds. Is this something I can do myself? The DW wants a second A/C, I can install it but the budget does not allow both.
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My other 5th wheel camper did not have slide toppers on it. Now the one I have now does. I really like them cause it helps to keep debris off the tops of the slides from coming in when you put the slides in. One other thing it helps with is when it is raining outside they cut down on the noise from the rain hitting the tops of the slide outs. One slide out is where out heads are in the bedroom. One more note is if it is real windy outside you will hear them in the breeze. We have never had a concern about them though. If I was to make a decision on getting toppers or 2nd A/C the A/C would win that battle for sure.
Hotshot
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 10,060
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From: Bristol, TN.
I think they are a worthwhile investment as they help direct water away from the sides of the slides. The primary leak point on slides is at the bottom where the caulking often fails at the trim piece. With slides you seldom know they are leaking until the floor gets soft so in that light I regard them as cheap insurance and would note if you take your time and are handy, the install is well within your ability. I do regard your dealer's price as fair however. 
Steve
Steve
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From: Media PA
If you are comfortable installing the second AC unit then you will be fine installing the slide toppers, they are relatively simple. I was going to install our three but then Camping World had their $25 single item install special so we had them do it.
We love our toppers for the same reasons already mentioned, but with our TT's insulation package we haven't really heard then flapping in the wind. I wouldn't want to have a camper with slides without toppers, a single pine cone can do a number on those seals.
We love our toppers for the same reasons already mentioned, but with our TT's insulation package we haven't really heard then flapping in the wind. I wouldn't want to have a camper with slides without toppers, a single pine cone can do a number on those seals.
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Logistics Pro
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From: NC
Humm.... good points esp from RV TECH.
So the one slide with the awning can't get a topper, how is the best way to protect it from the caulk cracking and a leak?
Ok, you convinced me. If I can swing it I will get the toppers and do the A/C in the spring. I am also planning on new Maxxis tires, my car hauler will get the China Bombs.
So the one slide with the awning can't get a topper, how is the best way to protect it from the caulk cracking and a leak?
Ok, you convinced me. If I can swing it I will get the toppers and do the A/C in the spring. I am also planning on new Maxxis tires, my car hauler will get the China Bombs.
Hotshot
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 10,060
Likes: 491
From: Bristol, TN.
"So the one slide with the awning can't get a topper, how is the best way to protect it from the caulk cracking and a leak?"
With every new customer, I go over their rig with them, especially the known problem areas. Where there will not be a topper, I simply stress the importance of checking the seal at the bottom of the slide out several times a year and replacing the caulk when it looks like is is starting to break down. It really doesn't take more than that, if you want to forgo toppers. I like them and install them on all our RVs with slides.
Steve
With every new customer, I go over their rig with them, especially the known problem areas. Where there will not be a topper, I simply stress the importance of checking the seal at the bottom of the slide out several times a year and replacing the caulk when it looks like is is starting to break down. It really doesn't take more than that, if you want to forgo toppers. I like them and install them on all our RVs with slides.
Steve
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Dec 2014
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From: Central NH
I agree with everyone else's advice. Slide toppers are cheap insurance. We only have one slide, but I love having the topper on it. No twigs or leaves getting sucked into the seals.
As a dumb question....... why can't you have a topper on the awning side ? Not enough clearance??
Some trailers I've looked at, looked like plenty of room for a topper under the awning..... some, not so much.
As a dumb question....... why can't you have a topper on the awning side ? Not enough clearance??
Some trailers I've looked at, looked like plenty of room for a topper under the awning..... some, not so much.
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Logistics Pro
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From: NC
I agree with everyone else's advice. Slide toppers are cheap insurance. We only have one slide, but I love having the topper on it. No twigs or leaves getting sucked into the seals.
As a dumb question....... why can't you have a topper on the awning side ? Not enough clearance??
Some trailers I've looked at, looked like plenty of room for a topper under the awning..... some, not so much.
As a dumb question....... why can't you have a topper on the awning side ? Not enough clearance??
Some trailers I've looked at, looked like plenty of room for a topper under the awning..... some, not so much.
I just went and looked, there is no room for one. When I extend the awning I have to use pool noodles to prevent the awning from rubbing the slide corners.
Talked to the DW, we can wait until spring for the A/C but she now agrees we need to get the toppers while the camper is in the shop. She doesn't want me doing the toppers, I consider it her camper so it is her choice. Besides, one wrong drill in the gel coat and I will be in deep trouble.
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Logistics Pro
Joined: Mar 2010
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From: NC
It is fully exposed. When at home or unattended do not leave the awning out so it is open to rain and dirt. RVTech mentioned the caulk on the slides, I will really need to keep an eye on that slide and clean it since I usually have the slides extended when it parked in the driveway.
Logistics Pro
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From: East Central Ia
I had never considered to noise factor. Ours is a small camper with only 1 slide but it is over the couch were we watch TV especially on rainy nights. I am tired of carrying a small ladder and wash brush to clean off slide before we leave campground. Last year had to park under a oak tree that was dropping more acorn's than a politician dropping campaign promises.
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Logistics Pro
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From: NC
I sold my wife on the toppers over Thanksgiving weekend, we were parked under pine trees and my son had to go on the roof to sweep it off before we pulled out, she sees us (me) getting older and does not want me up there if I don't have to be.
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Logistics Pro
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We do business with Country Roads RV between Winston and Lexington, I have been very satisfied with their sales and service.
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