Slide Topper Installation

[Cougar27]

I am getting ready to install a lippert slide topper on our Cougar. The instructions say to use a "backer" on the back side of the wall to better anchor the mounting screws. However, I see no way to get access to the back side of the outer wall of either the cabin wall or the slide wall. Our dealer said they don't use any "backer", but was wondering if anyone has experience (or issues) with slide toppers installed without the use of a "backing plate" on the mounting screws?

[chuckster57]

We don’t use backers either. We will use SikaFlex on the backside of the bracket as it is an adhesive. It works real good, making removal of the bracket extremely difficult.

[JRTJH]

I installed mine (14' slide) almost 5 years ago with Sikaflex and 1" Roberts square drive screws. There's no backing strip and no sign of the awning rail separating from the trailer sidewall.

The roller tube brackets are mounted "just under the slide fascia. On my trailer, there's an aluminum frame member in that area, so the roller tube brackets are mounted to the slide framework.

[Cougar27]

Thanks a bunch guys and this adds a great boost to my confidence about this installation lasting like it should.
Very much appreciated!!!!

[rhagfo]

Well the number of screws should put your mind at rest. I got very tired of driving screws when putting in our slide out covers!

[JRTJH]

Speaking of the screws, there does seem to be a "bazillion" screws. Mine were supposed to be self-tapping, but in the FILON skin, they tended to "tent the FILON" rather than pierce it cleanly. So, I used a small drill bit and drilled pilot holes after I had the awning rail in position.

Oh, and an "old sheetmetal trick"... It seems "practical" to secure both ends (so it remains level) but if you do that (and tighten both ends) by the time you get to the middle, you run the risk of buckling the skin. So, start at one end, drill your pilot hole, secure that end "loosely", then move to the other end, adjust for level, drill your pilot hole and install the screw "loosely", then go to the middle and work toward each end. Once all the screws are in place, then go back to the middle and tighten them "alternating left/right from the center to the outer screws.

[rhagfo]

I forgot to mention that I drilled pilot holes for all the bizlion screws, just one of those projects.

[chuckster57]

Originally Posted by rhagfo

I forgot to mention that I drilled pilot holes for all the bizlion screws, just one of those projects.

Yup, when I have to install the rail, I use my drill for pilot holes and impact (set on medium) to drive the screws, that way I can work down the rail without having to keep changing bits. Measure every 3rd hole to insure its straight with the slide flange.

[Cougar27]

Thanks again everybody, lots of great pointers...... now all I need is a day without something else planned for me to do.

And to Chuckster57 ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, thanks for your 25 years service, you guys don’t get the respect you deserve