The world of RVing is filled with tips, tricks, and—unfortunately—a few persistent myths. One of the most debated topics among RV owners is whether you should use jack stands or slide-out supports under your RV’s slide-outs. At first glance, it seems logical: more support equals more stability, right? However, RV experts and manufacturers consistently warn against this practice, and for good reason. Misusing jack stands or slide-out supports can lead to costly damage, voided warranties, and even safety hazards. In this article, we’ll break down the facts behind the “slide-out jack stand myth” and explain why the experts say you’re better off leaving those stands in the garage.
1. Slide-Outs Are Engineered to Be Self-Supporting
Modern RV slide-outs are designed and tested to support their own weight, even when loaded with heavy furniture and people moving about. Manufacturers account for the stresses and flexing that occur during regular use, so additional supports are not needed for structural integrity. In fact, using extra supports can interfere with the natural movement and sealing of the slide-out, potentially causing leaks or mechanical problems. If your RV is newer, chances are it’s built to handle everything you throw at it—except, perhaps, your in-laws visiting for a month.
If slide-outs needed extra help, the engineers would have included a “call for backup” button next to the extend switch.
2. Jack Stands Can Cause Frame and Mechanism Damage
Jack stands are not designed for the unique stress points of an RV slide-out. Placing them incorrectly can create pressure points that warp or crack the frame, or even damage the slide-out mechanism itself. If the RV settles or shifts while the stands are in place, the slide-out can twist, leading to expensive repairs. The only thing that should be twisting on your trip is your dance moves at the campground potluck.
Your RV’s frame doesn’t want a chiropractic adjustment from a jack stand gone rogue.
3. Risk of Voiding Your RV Warranty
Many RV manufacturers explicitly state in their manuals that using slide-out supports or jack stands can void your warranty. If damage occurs while supports are in use, you could be left footing the repair bill. Warranties are there to protect you—don’t give the manufacturer an easy out!
Voiding your warranty is the RV equivalent of telling your insurance agent you “just wanted to see what would happen.”
4. Slide-Out Supports Can Cause Water Leaks
Slide-outs rely on gravity and precise alignment to seal properly. When you use supports, you risk lifting the slide-out just enough to break that seal, allowing water, bugs, and dust to sneak in. Water intrusion is one of the most common causes of long-term RV damage. Unless you’re hoping to start a mobile aquarium, keep those supports away.
If you want a water feature in your RV, stick to a decorative fountain, not a leaky slide-out.
5. Unstable Ground Equals Unstable Supports
Most campsites aren’t perfectly level or solid. Jack stands and slide-out supports need a firm, stable base to work safely—but dirt, gravel, or grass can shift or settle, making the supports unstable1. If the RV moves and the slide-out doesn’t, you could end up with a twisted frame or damaged slide mechanism. The only thing that should be shifting at camp is your lawn chair as you chase the shade.
Jack stands on soft ground are like high heels at a mud run—looks good until someone takes a tumble.
6. Modern Stabilizer Systems Do the Job
Today’s RVs come equipped with advanced stabilizer jacks and leveling systems designed to minimize rocking and swaying. If you want extra stability, focus on using these built-in systems correctly. Adding extra supports under your slide-out is like putting training wheels on a Harley—it just doesn’t make sense.
If your RV is still rocking after the stabilizers are down, maybe it’s just excited for s’mores night.
7. The Myth Persists—But the Risks Are Real
Despite warnings from experts and manufacturers, the myth of the slide-out jack stand persists in RV forums and campgrounds. Some owners swear by them, but the risks far outweigh the perceived benefits. If you want your RV to last and your vacations to stay stress-free, trust the experts and skip the stands.
Myths belong in campfire stories, not in your RV maintenance routine.
Sources:
- http://smoketreervpark.com/level-rv-with-jack-stands/
- https://blog.campingworld.com/learn-to-rv/should-i-use-rv-slide-out-supports/
- https://www.forestriverforums.com/threads/stands-jacks-under-the-slide-outs.193527/
- https://www.mygrandrv.com/threads/slide-out-supports-stands-worth-it.56860/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wt4-KAoweMg
- https://thecampingnerd.com/are-rv-slide-out-supports-necessary/
- https://www.bishs.com/blog/slide-out-maintenance-guide/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H6U6wBt-Nos
