Kwikee step isssue

[Huberman]

2002 Itasca Sunova. Step was not retracting all the way, and now almost no movement from the lowered positoin. Upon closer examination, it appears to be binding a bit since one of the mounting points actually looks to be slightly torn (for lack of a better description) I can only see this from below, but it looks like the step frame material is fine but the area where it mounts to the coach may not be stout enough. This thing only has 27,000 miles and we've only owned it for approx. 6 months and only taken 2 trips so far but it seems like someone must have been jumping on this thing pretty hard to to actually bend / tear the mounting point. I'll need to remove the entire step assembly to get a better look and figure out a solution but just curious if anyone has had a similar issue?

Thanks

Huberman

[Ret Smokey]

I just finished repairing my step. SAME EXACT PROBLEM!!!!! I took the steps off in hopes of having the area where it was torn, welded up. No luck! Metal is to thin to weld on. Used an steel angle and screwed it into the thin metal and the sidewall of the coach (many self tapping screws). I bet I can guess which bolt tore out--standing looking at the step it is the rear one closest to the wall. BAD BAD DESIGN.

[Huberman]

Thanks for the reply, that sounds like the same one. Seems like a simple thing to design with a bit heavier material?!?! So I'm assuming this repair ends up spacing the step frame away from it's original mounting surface, the dimension of the thickness of the angle iron? Did you end up putting spacers at the opposite end to level it up or was that not an issue?

Thanks

Huberman

[Ret Smokey]

There should be just enough space to put the angle in there along with the self tapping screw heads. I believe the angle was 1/8" material. You will have to drill a hole to allow for the mounting stud. Make sure the hole is large enough so the stud can be moved to align with its hole in the step hole. I had to enlarge the hole because the metal that the stud was attached to had deformed a little. No need to use spacers, you will have a fight on your hands just getting the step back in place unless you have a buddy helping, I didn't have anyone.

[Huberman]

Thanks Bob, that makes sense. I'm hoping to make use of my floor jack for the lowering and raising back into place but I know what you mean about having an extra set of hands!

Huberman