Bedroom Slide Out Plywood Sub Floor Had Rotted Out and Exterior Trim Fell Off.

by Kermit
(Portland, Texas)

Question: HI, I have a Newmar 2000 Mountain Aire 5th wheel and the bedroom slide exterior aluminum picture frame finsh trim fell off the bottom of the slide. After closer examinatation the plywood sub floor apears to have rotted from the outside edge in about 2". I suspect a design defect. Would prefer to fix the problem myself, understanding the challenge of removing the slide, but can't get much support from manufacturer. Their repair center recommendation is 3000 miles away in Oregon. Afraid that local repair center options could result in many returns and I would eventually give up and sale the RV to get away from the mess. Could sell now, but like the unit a lot, dual tandem, great interior, etc.

Any suggestion on what to do when a slide goes bad from leak and plywood sub-floor has rotted out?

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Robbie: Giving you advise on a project this big would be a great challenge, but if you have the confidence to attack it that's great. You'll have to remove the slide starting by removing the interior trim package to allow the slide to be removed through the opening. Second disconnect the slide from the mechanism it slides on, remove the slide, then turn it over and take it apart like a puzzle to replace the rotted wood. Remember to get your measurements first and be sure the slide is the same size as is was when you started when your finished rebuilding it. Treat the wood you're replacing with a water sealer and NEVER use press board for replacing the floor. Would love to see before and after pictures to post on the web site for readers to see when your done.

Good luck,
Robbie