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Topic: Slide Bladder will not deflate - stuck in Michigan (Read 317 times) previous topic - next topic

Slide Bladder will not deflate - stuck in Michigan

I didn't want this to be my first post, but need expert advice from the forum. First major trip in our 2002 U320 36PBDS. Were getting ready to head back to Texas this morning and the bladder on our living room slide will not deflate.

I can't hear or find any leaks. The rear slide works like it should. The aux pump is running like it should.

I've read through all of the posts and can't find anything that is quite the same. Even tried switching the rear slide control to the front side and no difference. Switched wires back and the rear works fine.

The lights on the retract switch indicate it is deflated (yellow light solid). It retracted most of the way before stopping when I first tried it (that's when I discovered the lights weren't accurately indicating the state of the bladder).

Any thoughts or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

We got the coach last fall and spent the winter cleaning, updating prepping and preparing. I have learned a ton from all of you on this forum and made a number of updates and fixes from what you have shared. Can't thank you enough! Hoping some of that experience can enlighten me on this issue.

Rod
Rod and Phyllis
2002 U320 36PBDS

Re: Slide Bladder will not deflate - stuck in Michigan

Reply #1 –
Is there anything in thse topics that helps?

Auxiliary Compressor and Slides

Please Help. Slide issue and stuck
Learn every day, but especially from the experiences of others. It's cheaper!  - John C. Bogle

2000 U320 36' non-slide / WildEBeest Rescue
2003 U320

Re: Slide Bladder will not deflate - stuck in Michigan

Reply #2 –
Unfortunately, no. I've read through them and have checked everything mentioned to the best of my ability. The pump is running, building pressure and cutting off. However, as I'm typing it just came on again, which seems quicker than usual. I'm going to keep looking for leaks. The odd thing is the back slide works just fine.

I can't hear any hissing but am rechecking again.

Thanks.
Rod and Phyllis
2002 U320 36PBDS

Re: Slide Bladder will not deflate - stuck in Michigan

Reply #3 –
I believe on a 2002, the yellow light goes solid based on a timer, assuming that the seal has been under vacuum long enough to have deflated completely.  If you have air pressure to the HWH slide manifold, it uses a venturi to create the vacuum.  I have added combination gauges to my slide manifolds to show the state of pressure or vacuum present.  It's helpful to know this when trying to troubleshoot problems.  If air pressure is present to the manifold but it's not pulling a vacuum, that sounds like a solenoid on the manifold is not activating.  You should also be able to hear air escaping through the venturi.  The indicator LED lights in the HWH control boxes should tell you the state of things but I'm not well versed in reading those.  Others more knowledgable should chime in.  Hopefully you didn't damage the bladder when you attempted to bring it in.
George Mann
2002 U320 #5934
2017 Rubicon
2013 BMW GS
Waterford MI

Re: Slide Bladder will not deflate - stuck in Michigan

Reply #4 –
That almost sounds like there's a leak in your living room slide bladder somewhere.
Richard & Betty Bark & Keiko our Golden Doodle
2003 U320T 3820 PBDS
Build # 6215
MC # 16926
2016 Chevrolet Colorado 4X4 diesel

Re: Slide Bladder will not deflate - stuck in Michigan

Reply #5 –

Rod, not sure if this will help, but it could be the solenoid valve on the manifold for the slide.  You have one for your front slide and one for the back slide.  I have a 2000 and my slide is not the same as yours, but this might help you out in a pinch.  I installed a vacuum pump on my bulkhead and plumbed the air lines to it and tied the electric going to that valve that is not working and it deflated my bladder when I turn the key on now.  If I remember correctly, it is the last solenoid on the aluminum block that is now not working.  I ordered the vacuum off of Amazon.    Rudy told me about this and it works!

Amazon.com: HRepair 904-214 Electrical Engine Vacuum Pump Fits For 1999-2010...

As an Amazon Associate Foretravel Owners' Forum earns from qualifying purchases.
Joe & Dottie Allen
Sold!  December 2023.      2000 U320; build # 5645
Our coach " Maxine"
Motorcade #  15922;  Escapee 150950; FMCA F330833; Boondockers Welcome;  Harvest Hosts;  Thousand Trails
'98 U320 from 2000-'06
USAF '62-'66

"Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not; remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for." ―Epicurus
 

Re: Slide Bladder will not deflate - stuck in Michigan

Reply #6 –
Talked withy Rudy, and he was a great help. Ended up making jumper hoses and reversing the wiring, basically using the rear slide control and manifold to operate the front slide. Got it in and hoping it will get us home where we'll have the time for a permanent fix.

I connected the air hose and electrics from the rear to the front and, oddly, both slides worked. No signs of leakage in the bladders that I can find.

Thanks for all the help and suggestions!
Rod and Phyllis
2002 U320 36PBDS