How to Replace Kwikee Super Slide II Drive Wheels - Step-by-Step DIY Repair Guide

The Quick Answer

Your DIY approach using PMC-790 urethane rubber to refurbish the Kwikee Super Slide II drive wheels is an excellent solution that will save you hundreds of dollars. Based on your detailed process, you're on the right track - the molding technique you've developed with the 2-inch PVC test caps and hole saws is clever and should produce professional results. At $134 for 8 wheels versus $600 for replacements, this is definitely the way to go. The 48-hour cure time you mentioned is correct, and you'll likely need some trimming around the shafts as expected.

What's Causing This

The rubber deterioration on Kwikee Super Slide II drive wheels is extremely common and happens for several reasons. The original molded rubber compound breaks down over time due to UV exposure, temperature cycling, and the mechanical stress of repeated extension and retraction cycles. The rubber becomes brittle and literally chunks off the metal wheel core, leaving you with metal-on-metal contact.

This problem is so widespread because these storage slides see heavy use and are often exposed to harsh conditions. The drive wheels are under constant pressure against the slide rails, and the rubber compound Kwikee originally used wasn't designed for the long-term durability that RV owners expect. Once the rubber starts failing on one wheel, the increased load on the remaining wheels accelerates their failure too.

The PMC-790 urethane you've chosen is actually superior to the original rubber compound in terms of durability and chemical resistance, so your refurbished wheels should last longer than the originals did.

Tools You'll Need

Based on your materials list and process, here's what you'll need to complete this project:

• 7/16-inch socket and ratchet for wheel removal
• 2.5-inch hole saw for cutting the centering puck
• 5/8-inch hole saw for the shaft hole
• Drill with bits suitable for the hole saws
• Miter saw or hand saw for cutting PVC square
• Drill with 5/8-inch bit for the wooden fixture
• Measuring tools and marking pen
• Mixing containers and stir sticks
• Utility knife or trim tool for cleanup

Your material list is spot-on. The PMC-790 kit, mold release spray, 2-inch PVC pipe, DWV test caps, and mixing supplies total around $134 as you calculated. The blue colorant is a nice touch - it'll make it easy to identify your refurbished wheels and adds a professional appearance.

Step-by-Step Fix

Your process is well-thought-out, but here are some additional tips to ensure success:

1. Wheel Removal: Extend the tray about 1/3 out to access all four drive wheels (two per end of the upper rail). Use the 7/16-inch socket to remove the two bolts per wheel. Mark each wheel's position so you can reinstall them in the same orientation.
2. Mold Preparation: Your centering method using the 2.5-inch hole saw puck in the test cap is brilliant. After drilling the 5/8-inch center hole, test-fit each drive wheel to ensure the shaft fits snugly. The PVC extensions should be cut perfectly square and tall enough that the urethane will be slightly above the wheel when poured.
3. Surface Preparation: Clean the metal drive wheel cores thoroughly with degreaser and let them dry completely. Any oil or grease will prevent proper adhesion of the new urethane.
4. Mixing and Pouring: Your 1:1 ratio (Part A to Part B) is correct. Mix Part B with colorant first, then add Part A and mix thoroughly for at least 2 minutes. Pour slowly to minimize air bubbles, and tap the molds gently to release any trapped air.
5. Curing and Finishing: After the full 48-hour cure time, carefully remove the wheels from the molds. Use a sharp utility knife to trim excess urethane around the shaft area. Test-fit before final installation.

Your wooden fixture with 5/8-inch holes is a great idea for keeping the molds stable during pouring and curing. Make sure to apply mold release generously - it's better to use too much than too little.

When to Call a Pro

This is definitely a DIY-friendly project, and your approach shows you have the skills to complete it successfully. However, consider professional help if you encounter these situations:

If the slide mechanism itself has mechanical issues beyond just the drive wheels - such as bent rails, damaged motor assemblies, or structural problems with the slide mounting - these require more extensive repairs that might need professional diagnosis. Also, if you're not comfortable working with chemical compounds like the PMC-790, or if you don't have access to the necessary tools for precise cutting and drilling, a mobile RV tech could handle the entire project.

Some RV service centers might be willing to use your urethane wheel cores and handle just the installation, which could be worth considering if you want to avoid the removal and reinstallation process. The total project should take about a week with cure time, so factor that into your travel plans.

Your innovative approach is going to help a lot of RV owners facing this expensive repair. Document your results - the RV community will definitely want to know how well these refurbished wheels perform over time compared to the expensive factory replacements.