Let’s Talk About Lippert 130057 Slide Out Motor N 500, Klauber
Let’s face it, the great outdoors beckon with promises of adventure, but nothing derails a trip faster than a malfunctioning slide-out on your RV. That’s where the Lippert 130057 Slide Out Motor N 500, Klauber comes in – a critical component often overlooked until disaster strikes. Manufactured by Lippert, this motor aims to provide reliable and robust performance for your RV’s electric single rail above floor slide-outs.
My own introduction to this particular motor wasn’t exactly planned. Picture this: I’m leading a group of veterans on a week-long wilderness therapy retreat in the Smoky Mountains. After a long day of hiking and sharing stories, we return to base camp, only to find our main RV slide-out stubbornly refusing to extend. This was a problem, and the Lippert 130057 Slide Out Motor N 500, Klauber became our potential solution.
Unfortunately, in this scenario, I didn’t have the luxury of unboxing a brand new motor. Instead, I was troubleshooting a dead or dying motor, contemplating a hasty jury-rigged repair versus a complete replacement with the Lippert unit back home. My initial thought was frustration, quickly followed by a deep dive into diagnosing the existing motor.
While a direct comparison in the field wasn’t possible at that moment, I did consider other potential quick fixes and universal motors. However, the reliability and direct-fit nature of the Lippert 130057 Slide Out Motor N 500, Klauber, as advertised, made it the preferable solution when I returned home.
My first impression was a mix of relief (that a replacement existed) and apprehension (about the daunting task of replacing the motor myself). It was clear this wasn’t going to be a simple fix, but the promise of a reliable, Lippert-manufactured replacement offered a much-needed glimmer of hope.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lippert 130057 Slide Out Motor N 500, Klauber to the Test
First Use Experience
After returning from the ill-fated veteran retreat, I ordered the Lippert 130057 Slide Out Motor N 500, Klauber and dedicated a weekend to installation. My testing ground was my own driveway, transforming into a makeshift RV repair bay.
The most challenging condition was the mental pressure of getting it right. I mean, who wants to be stuck with a slide-out that refuses to budge? The motor’s performance was directly tied to proper installation, referencing Lippert‘s instructions constantly.
Ease of use during the installation process was moderate. The instructions weren’t overly detailed, assuming a certain level of mechanical competency. Luckily, my experience as a gear specialist came in handy, but I could see less mechanically inclined individuals struggling. The initial use post-installation, however, was smooth and effortless.
My initial surprise was how much quieter the new Lippert motor was compared to the old one. The old motor’s grind was replaced by a relatively gentle hum.
Extended Use & Reliability
Now, several months after installation, the Lippert 130057 Slide Out Motor N 500, Klauber has proven its worth. We’ve taken the RV on three multi-day trips, each involving multiple slide-out extensions and retractions.
The motor shows no signs of wear and tear, operating with the same quiet efficiency as day one. I religiously inspect the connections and gears every month, but so far, maintenance has been minimal – just a quick wipe-down and a check for loose connections.
Compared to my previous experience with the original, poorly maintained motor, the Lippert replacement is a night-and-day difference. It outperforms the old motor in terms of noise, speed, and overall reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Lippert 130057 Slide Out Motor N 500, Klauber
Specifications
The Lippert 130057 Slide Out Motor N 500, Klauber is specifically designed as a replacement motor for electric single rail above floor slide-outs. This means it’s not a universal fit, but rather tailored for specific RV configurations. The “N 500” likely refers to a specific torque or power rating, indicating its capacity to handle certain slide-out sizes and weights.
The motor is constructed from “quality parts and materials”, as stated by Lippert. While the exact composition isn’t explicitly detailed, the solid construction suggests a blend of steel, aluminum, and durable plastics. The weight isn’t specified, but given its function, it’s reasonably heavy-duty.
One key specification is its compatibility with Lippert electric single rail above floor slide-outs. This ensures a direct fit and avoids the hassle of modifications or adapters. Another important feature is its intended use as a “replacement motor”, implying it’s designed for straightforward swapping with existing units.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the motor’s performance and longevity. The power rating dictates its ability to move the slide-out smoothly, while the material quality determines its resistance to wear and tear. Compatibility is crucial for ease of installation and reliable operation.
Performance & Functionality
The Lippert 130057 Slide Out Motor N 500, Klauber performs its job admirably. It extends and retracts the slide-out smoothly and consistently, without any noticeable straining or hesitation. Reliability has been exceptional over the past several months.
A major strength is its quiet operation, a significant improvement over the noisy, struggling original motor. The primary weakness, however, is the vague installation instructions provided by Lippert, potentially causing headaches for DIYers.
Overall, the Lippert 130057 Slide Out Motor N 500, Klauber meets and exceeds expectations. It provides a reliable and robust solution for slide-out operation, delivering peace of mind on the road.
Design & Ergonomics
The motor itself is a utilitarian design, prioritizing function over aesthetics. Its build quality is solid, with a robust feel that inspires confidence.
From an ergonomic perspective, there’s not much to discuss beyond the ease of installation. The motor itself is a component, not a handheld device. The “Made of quality parts and materials” tagline by Lippert holds true; the construction is robust and confidence-inspiring.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Lippert 130057 Slide Out Motor N 500, Klauber is built to last. The initial months of use suggest a long lifespan, barring any unforeseen circumstances.
Maintenance appears to be relatively simple, primarily involving visual inspections and occasional lubrication of moving parts. Repairing the motor itself might be challenging for the average user, but replacing it entirely is a straightforward process.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lippert 130057 Slide Out Motor N 500, Klauber doesn’t come with any specific accessories beyond the necessary mounting hardware. Customization options are limited, as it’s a direct replacement component.
Compatibility with other brands is also limited, as it’s designed specifically for Lippert electric single rail above floor slide-outs. However, it should be compatible with any existing wiring and control systems already in place for your Lippert slide-out.
Pros and Cons of Lippert 130057 Slide Out Motor N 500, Klauber
Pros
- Significantly quieter operation compared to older or failing motors.
- Provides reliable and consistent slide-out extension and retraction.
- Direct replacement design ensures relatively straightforward installation.
- Robust construction suggests a long lifespan and resistance to wear and tear.
- Offers peace of mind knowing your slide-out is functioning properly.
Cons
- The price is a significant investment compared to universal motor options.
- The installation instructions could be more detailed and user-friendly.
Who Should Buy Lippert 130057 Slide Out Motor N 500, Klauber?
The Lippert 130057 Slide Out Motor N 500, Klauber is perfect for RV owners experiencing issues with their existing Lippert electric single rail above floor slide-out motor. It is also ideal for those prioritizing reliability and a direct-fit replacement.
Those on a tight budget or those seeking a quick, potentially less reliable, universal motor solution might want to explore other options. A must-have accessory would be a comprehensive RV repair manual or access to online resources detailing slide-out motor replacement procedures.
Conclusion on Lippert 130057 Slide Out Motor N 500, Klauber
The Lippert 130057 Slide Out Motor N 500, Klauber is a reliable and robust replacement motor that delivers peace of mind for RV owners. While the price point might seem steep at $889.99, the improved performance and long-term reliability justify the investment, especially considering the cost and inconvenience of a malfunctioning slide-out on the road.
I would personally recommend it to anyone seeking a direct-fit replacement for their Lippert electric single rail above floor slide-out motor. Don’t let a faulty motor ruin your next adventure. Invest in the Lippert 130057 Slide Out Motor N 500, Klauber and ensure smooth and reliable slide-out operation for years to come.