In our 2004, like Mr. Welbanks's coach, the hydraulic pump and reservoir are located just left of the entry step. I raise the coach up on it bags with the step out, throw down a soft carpet, and slide my head and shoulders under the curb side coach's edge just fore of the step to reach the reservoir cap. I would guess if the reservoir oil level is low, then that could explain slow slide operation. The problem could also be in the manifold that directs oil to the proper lines depending upon which toggle switch is pushed.
We have hydraulic leveling, as well, that works from this same hydraulic pump and reservoir. I think the manual says to put one hydraulic leveler ram down six inches before adding Dexron III (or IV or V) to the reservoir. If the reservoir is low on oil and a lot of oil is added, then there is a procedure in the manual that is followed to remove air pockets from the hydraulic lines.