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What Is The Difference Between A 300:1 and a 500:1 Gear Ratio RV Step Motor  

Updated 09/04/2025 | Published 07/10/2017

Question:

Is there any advantage to replace 300:1 Lippert slide motors with 500:1 motors. I know both would have to be replaced. Just dont know if you have to stay with original ratio or if the 500:1 would be more hearty and maybe last longer.

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Expert Reply:

The only difference between a Lippert slide-out motor with a 300:1 gear ratio and a 500:1 gear ratio, is torque. The 500:1 gear ratio will provide this motor with more torque. As they have the same dimensions and design, you can use the 500:1 gear ratio motor in place of the 300:1 gear ratio motor, however, you will not see any benefit from doing so in that both motors will operate at the same pace and strength. Therefore, no, the 500:1 gear ratio motor will not last longer than the 300:1 gear ratio motor.

If you can provide me with the model of Rv steps you are using, than I would be happy to recommend a replacement motor for you.

expert reply by:
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Conner L
Gregory D. profile picture

Gregory D.

8/28/2024

I'm confused by your reply. I have a Grand Design Imagine 23BHE xls. My local rv repair shop has advised me (and by my online groups) that because the kitchen slides are heavy and Grand Design undersized the motors, that they advise upgrading from the 300:1 motor to the 500:1 that have better torque for those slides? Am I getting bad advice?

Jameson C. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Jameson C.

8/28/2024

@GregoryD I would agree with your local RV dealer and not Conner's answer here.
Marschall profile picture

Marschall

9/4/2025

My travel trailer is a Salem Cruise Lite Model: T263BHXL by Forrest River. With a 12' slide measuring 12'9".

Jesse M. profile picture
Etrailer Expert

Jesse M.

9/4/2025

@Marschall Nice! Are you needing to replace the slide out motor? There is no way to look those up by Y/M/M. Can you provide the model number from the current motor?

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