Conditions for Slide Operation- Magnum Series B Chassis

[Jack W Hannah]

Is it acceptable practice to operate slides on a Magnum Series B Chassis with air suspension deflated, or is it necessary to completely inflate air springs first?
I did not find any warning in the manual about this method of slide operation.
If ride height is required, please explain.


Thank you,

[Joel Ashley]

This particular manufacturer preferred that we follow the “slides out first and in last” motto.  In other words, never move slides in or out unless the air system is in Travel Mode, or in theory straight up or down in relation to that;  in that configuration the wall openings are square with the slide boxes, making for less stress on mechanisms or risk to structure. 

Leveling the coach, with air or hydraulics, on an off-level campsite is fine, but introduces a twisted relationship between chassis and body, leaving wall openings cattywampous.  Moving a square slide box through an off-square opening is ill-advised.  This theory has detractors and is controversial among owners, and some other manufacturers tout opposite notions.  Following manufacturer guidelines, though, is usually best, and among us has a proven record.

Joel 😉

[Jack W Hannah]

Joel,

Thank you for your reply. I certainly can appreciate the “square peg in a around hole” or the “catawampus” misalignment concern.
The reason I posed this question is because I would like to be able to simply extend my slides, especially the bedroom slide, while parked on a level storage location without having to start the coach.
Are there any obstructions underneath the coach that would prevent this action; or is it necessary to raise the coach to prevent misalignment between slide geometry and slide opening?
Thank you
 

[Fred Brooks]

     Jack,
 I do believe Joel is correct. When the coach is being assembled on the production line they put blocks inside the chassis to simulate the ride height of a finished coach. This dictates side wall installation and location. The mechanism that moves the rooms is carefully located on the chassis and side outriggers in relationship to these openings. They engineered the production this way, however the rooms will probably go in and out. Just saying be careful if you choose to do so. Fred

[Joel Ashley]

Especially if I the coach is on an already level site, I don’t know of any understructure that would be a detriment to slide operation at any height.  I’ve operated my slides on a range of heights, including the extremes.  My wife prefers the entry step be as low as possible, so campsite allowing, I’m commonly aired quite low, and have never had a slide issue as a result.

I just am reluctant to park on particularly uneven ground, requiring radical leveling that risks a twist affecting the windshield mount;  some factory windshield installations were erroneous and easily stressed (been there, …).  Your two-piece windshield is less susceptible than early one piece ones.

Joel

[Jack W Hannah]

Fed & Joel,

Thanks a lot, really good info.