So my 2019 Fleetwood Bounder 35K has this annoying thing where the big slide out keeps forgetting where it's supposed to stop. I can manually reset the stop points behind the switch panel and it works fine for a while, but then boom - happens again.
Starting to wonder if it's some kind of power issue or if the controller is going bad? Anyone dealt with this before? Really don't want to be that guy whose slide goes too far out at the campground!
Slide losing stop points indicates power interruption or failing controller memory. Check all power connections at controller for tightness. If happens after battery disconnect, some systems reset by design. Persistent issue may require controller replacement.
Your 2019 Fleetwood Bounder 35K is losing its slide-out stop points because the motor's internal limit switches are likely failing or the control module is experiencing voltage fluctuations that cause it to lose its programmed positions. Since you're able to manually reset the stops behind the switch, this confirms the issue is with either faulty limit switches in the motor assembly, a failing control board, or inconsistent power supply to the slide system. The repeated loss of stop points indicates a hardware failure rather than a simple programming issue, and continuing to manually reset without addressing the root cause will likely lead to complete system failure or potential slide room damage.
Common causes of lost stop points in your Bounder's slide system include failing internal limit switches within the slide motor assembly. These magnetic or optical switches tell the control module exactly where the slide is positioned, and when they start to fail intermittently, the system loses its reference points and defaults to no programmed stops for safety.
Voltage fluctuations represent another major culprit, particularly if your house batteries are aging or if there are loose connections in the 12V slide circuit. The control module requires consistent power to maintain its memory, and brief power interruptions can cause it to lose the stored stop positions. Check your battery voltage under load - it should maintain at least 12.6V during slide operation.
The slide control board itself may be failing, especially given that your unit is now 4-5 years old. These boards contain small capacitors and memory chips that can degrade over time, causing intermittent loss of programmed positions. Excessive heat from being mounted near the engine compartment can accelerate this deterioration.
Finally, mechanical binding or increased resistance in the slide mechanism can cause the motor to draw excessive current, triggering safety protocols that reset the stop points. This often occurs when slide seals become dry and sticky, or when the slide rails need cleaning and lubrication.
WARNING: Never work under or around a slide that could move unexpectedly. Never work under or around a slide that could move unexpectedly. Ensure the slide is fully retracted and properly supported before accessing components.
Gather the necessary tools including a digital multimeter, basic hand tools, and contact cleaner. You'll also want to have the slide system manual handy - Fleetwood typically uses Lippert or Kwikee systems in the Bounder line. Locate your slide motor and control module, which are usually accessible through a basement compartment panel.
Document the current behavior by noting exactly when the stops are lost - immediately after operation, after sitting overnight, or randomly during use. This pattern will help identify whether it's a power issue, mechanical problem, or component failure. Take photos of wire connections before disconnecting anything.
Check your owner's manual for the specific slide system type and model number. Fleetwood used different manufacturers over the years, and knowing whether you have a Lippert Schwintek, Kwikee, or other system will determine the exact diagnostic and repair procedures.
Start by testing the power supply to the slide system. With your multimeter, check voltage at the motor while operating the slide - it should read 12-14V consistently without significant drops. If voltage fluctuates more than 1-2V during operation, trace back through the wiring to find loose connections, corroded terminals, or inadequate wire gauge for the current draw.
Next, inspect the slide motor assembly for the limit switch connections. These are typically small wires coming from the motor housing that connect to the control module. Look for loose, corroded, or damaged connections. Clean all connections with contact cleaner and ensure they're tight. If the limit switches are external (some systems have them mounted on the slide mechanism itself), check their alignment and operation.
Test the control module by accessing the programming mode and attempting to reset the stops. If the system accepts the programming but loses it again within a few cycles, the control board likely needs replacement. Control modules for this era typically cost around $200-300, while labor for replacement typically runs $150-250 at an RV service center.
Perform a mechanical inspection of the slide rails and seals. Clean and lubricate the slide rails with appropriate slide-out lubricant (never use petroleum-based products). Check that the slide moves smoothly without binding or excessive resistance. If the motor works harder due to mechanical issues, it can cause the control system to reset as a protective measure.
If these steps don't resolve the issue, the problem likely lies within the motor assembly itself. The internal limit switches may need replacement, which typically requires motor removal and partial disassembly. This is generally a job for experienced RV technicians, as improper reassembly can damage the gear reduction system.
Contact an RV service center if the voltage tests reveal significant power supply issues that trace back to the main electrical panel or if multiple slides are experiencing similar problems. These symptoms often indicate deeper electrical system problems that require professional diagnosis and repair to prevent damage to expensive components.
WARNING: Motor replacement or internal repair should be handled by professionals due to the weight and complexity of slide motors, which require special tools and calibration procedures. Slide motors are heavy, precisely calibrated units that require special tools for safe removal and installation. Expect to pay $800-1200 for motor replacement including labor, or $400-600 for internal limit switch replacement if the motor can be repaired.
Seek professional help immediately if you notice any signs of slide room structural damage, such as cracks around the slide opening, bent slide rails, or the slide room sitting unevenly when extended. These issues can cause catastrophic failure if not properly addressed, potentially requiring extensive bodywork costing thousands of dollars.
Consider professional service if you're not comfortable working with 12V electrical systems or if the diagnostic process reveals multiple potential issues. A good RV technician can quickly isolate the problem using specialized diagnostic equipment and has access to technical service bulletins that may address known issues with your specific slide system model. Professional diagnosis typically costs $100-150 but can save money by avoiding unnecessary parts replacement.
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