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fredflyer · 08-23-2015, 08:44 PM

I'm looking at a 2005 Classic in 30'. It has a slide out on the driver's side for the dinette. Have there been problems with leakage around the slide, or problems with the slide getting stuck in, or OUT?

**jcanavera** · 08-23-2015, 10:10 PM

I've got a 2004, same size and configuration. There are a few threads regarding slides. Airstream did these right and if it hasn't been abused, it should be good. Remember that the trailer should be level with the stabilizer jacks down prior to extending the slide or when retracting it. Those slide units are heavy and can exert a lot of torque on the frame if the stabilizer jacks aren't down. That can cause damage. Let us know if you have other questions.

Jack

fredflyer · 08-23-2015, 10:24 PM

WOW!! Quick response!! Thank you bunches! I've heard all kinds of horror stories about slide outs on other brands, especially motor homes. I was hoping AS did this as well as they do everything else. I have thought about using those drop-down jacks that go on the corners of pickup campers, attached to the outer corners of the slide out. Do you use the hand-crank stabalizers? Or is there an electric add-on? I'm considering using a battery powered drill to run them up and down. I've had hydraulic jack levelers on a motor home and really liked them.

cwf · 08-23-2015, 10:34 PM

I use a Ridgid battery powered drill successfully for 3 years.

Do NOT 'move' the AS with the stabilizers.. only 'hold' the AS in place.

If you can manage to get one, go for it! I would if I were you..

fredflyer · 08-23-2015, 10:58 PM

Thanks, cwf!! I've got a craftsman 20V drill and impact driver to do that job. Does anyone install jacks onto the spring mounts to level the coach side to side?

fredflyer · 08-23-2015, 11:15 PM

I have not seen the thing in person, only pictures. But it looks like the coach can be used without extending the slide out. So a short stop would be doable without undue effort. But the slide out will make the coach more livable on longer stays. Our first major trip will be a move from N CA to Florida, then house hunting between Tampa and JAX!

**jcanavera** · 08-24-2015, 06:16 AM

Mine came equipped with electric stabilizers. I'm not sure if that was standard on the Classic slides or not.

The stabilizers are there for support, not leveling. Trying to level an Airstream with a stabilizer will torque the frame causing all kinds of problems. Save that kind of leveling for motor homes.

Here's a couple of pictures when mine was new on the lot with the slide retracted. Also a picture of the slide extended. It needs no additional supports under it.

Jack

**GCinSC2** · 08-24-2015, 07:58 AM

Don't fear the slide. If the rig is in good shape look real hard at getting a truly unique and enjoyable AS.

We can advise of other inspection points if you need help.

As with any trailer water leaks ain't no good. Look under and behind everything.

Level first then stabilize then slide out.

What state are you in?

pappy19 · 08-24-2015, 10:34 AM

We have a 2002 30' Classic and have not had one problem with operation or leaking. I use 303 on the rubber seals about once a year to keep them from cracking. Since you can't buy a new slider, the demand is way over the supply. Airstream only made 84 slide units from 2001-2009; according to the info from the factory.

cwf · 08-24-2015, 10:34 AM

To "level" on the "Y" axis, we use "blocks". I then use screw jack tripods to "fine tune" the level and stabilize under the axle area. In our 34' there can be a lot of "bounce"... This stops most of it.

wcgnemi · 08-24-2015, 12:41 PM

I own a 2005 30ft Classic with the slide out. I have only one problem with my slide out. There is a small leak on the front when the slide is in. The leak is so small I haven't done anything to correct it. I just place a small towel and it absorbs the small amount of water. I'm sure the gasket needs replaced or reinforced. The slide works great and we realy enjoy the additional it provides.

One point I would make is the tongue weight on the AS w/so is approximately 1100 pounds. I have a 2014 1794 Toyota Tundra. I talked to a Toyota engineer abt the weight and was told I was very close to being over. I chose to add Firestone air bags and the trailer tows great with no bottoming out. My Tundra tows the AS very well and gets between 13 and 14 mpg.

**jcanavera** · 08-24-2015, 03:06 PM

That hitch weight is important to note. My Gm van when built only came with a 1000 lb receiver. I had the dealer put on a 1,400 lb Hidden Hitch along with a 1,400 lb rated Equal-I-zer. The 30' slides are heavy and don't under estimate the vehicle you will need to pull with. Since the Ozarks have their share of steep grades, I opted a GM van equipped to tow up to 9,900 lbs.

Jack

kleimanr · 08-24-2015, 08:15 PM

I have a 2006. No leaks, no problems, Use your stabs. Yep it's heavy on the hitch. If you have a GM product get a better hitch. I use a Reese Straight Line and it tows straight. If you have Disk Brakes let me know for some hints and fixes.

fredflyer · 08-25-2015, 02:30 AM

Thanks kleimanr! I'll get the dealerships (GMC and AS) to look at the factory hitch and let me know what is actually installed. I expect to need an upgrade to my installed hitch, or maybe a new one altogether. Guess I should goto the hitch threads to read up on them! Somewhat more complicated than just buying a new SUV!

guskmg · 08-25-2015, 09:17 PM

I have a 2006 34 SOD. I have had good service from the unit and Airstream. I have replaced the slide controller 2 times due to lightening and an accidental short while checking the wiring. The only other problem was a one time incident of the slide not unlocking for opening. Airstream Service said they had seen that problem, but the only thing they could think of was a poor unlocking motor ground. They cleaned the locking motor ground connections and the problem never recurred. I would recommend you call Power Gear, and give them your make, model and year, and get the latest part number for your controller. Buy a spare because Airstream does not keep them on hand and power Gear takes to weeks to ship and won't drop ship to you. With the part number you can get Camping World to order you one at considerable savings over an Airstream dealer. Through Airstream they are around $280, but cheaper through CW. We really like the slide. It easy to use. Just level up, stabilize, and open. If you will notice the gap around the edges and be sure there is ample clearance. The slide will go out and in effortless. That clearance can be adjusted by loading the stabilizers differently causing the gap to move in different directions. Think slight twist, if you will.
guskmg
Space "A"

**jcanavera** · 08-25-2015, 09:32 PM

The key is if the stabilizer jacks are used properly, you will never have to look at the gap around the edges of the slide. The technique I use with my electric jacks are to extend them down one at a time. When you notice the body starting to rise at that jack, stop and lower that jack. As the pressure is released the body stops lowering. At that point you are providing the right amount of support to the frame, while not exerting enough to torque the frame and effect the slide.

While I never have had to do this, the slide can be opened or closed manually. I'll have to get out my owners manual and make sure I have the tools to do that.

Jack