I have a 2011 Heartland Sundance Fifth Wheel. It is 28and…

Tim,

Thank you for the additional information.

A brief overview of this particular slide room system:

Your main slide room mechanism is what is called an actuator type mechanism. It has a long and motor assembly attached to one arm of the system. Inside the tube is a screw and nut. The motor drives the screw and the nut travels on the screw ultimately retracting or extending the room. The room structure is protected from over travel damage by a clutch assembly in the motor. The clutch has springs that compress under a specific amount of pressure to disengage the drive gear.

The clutch engaging is the ratcheting sound you hear at end of travel and what you describe as hearing now. It's unusual for a clutch to wear out this quickly, although it can happen.

What I suggest you double check first is battery voltage. If the voltage is low, then it takes more amperage to move the motor. At the same time the motor is moving slower and that creates greater pressure on the clutch springs.

Second, double check for obstructions at the inside of the room...carpet, toys, books, magazines, travel lock, etc.

You might be able to manually crank the room out without the clutch engaging.
CLICK HERE for the slide out Owner Manual. Refer to pages 6-8.
If cranking feels stiff or if the room wont move at all, it's possible the problem is in the actuator, not the motor. In that case, the actuator will need to be replaced.

If you're able to get the room out, look for signs of the room being out of adjustment. Check the side and top wall openings for signs the room is catching on one side or the roof is wedging itself at the top when closed.

Please let me know what you find.

Thanks,

Dale