Kwikee Steps

[Oleo4]

I'm at my wit's end ! I have a SurfSide 06 model.

The switch that de-engergizes the steps on the main panel will not work anymore. The voltage across the switch measures 8.25V. I say this is not normal but Kwikee says it's in the coach wiring that's bad. I say the control for the steps is the culprit.
Any help is appreciated.

[Theberrys]

Here is a link to a good troubleshooting manual with wiring diagrams.
Kwikee Manual - Windows Live

Dick

[Oleo4]

Thanks Dick, I have the same manual that came with the coach but it's pretty generic, i.e. the troubleshooting section doesn't have anything to say about my problem.

[BigV]

Where are you measuring the voltage at?

You should disconnect the steps. Place the ground of your meter where your steps are grounded and probe the plug.

If you have an override switch you should check there as well. A corroded switch can cause a drop in voltage. So can a corroded fuse.

You should also clip a ground wire to the steps and see if that cures the problem. A corroded ground connection can also cause a voltage drop.

They are correct though. You either have a bad ground or a bad feed. Just a matter of finding it.

[ga traveler]

Kwikee is telling you right. The switch power you are talking about does not come from control box. This is a second 12V source for the steps. You have a problem with the 12V supply from your coach.

[Oleo4]

Well, I appreciate the help but it looks as if I must get back to some investigation. Like I've always said, finding problems in a 'DC' circuit can be a nightmare.

[ValleyCenter]

If and when you figure it out let us know. I have the same issue. if i figure it out I will let you know.

Keith

[BigV]

My experience with low voltage readings are almost always bad grounds.

When I installed mine I used a braided ground strap from the frame to a nut that holds the motor. I attached the Kwickee ground wires to another nut. These nuts/bolts are unpainted and conduct well.

[macstonedude]

We just fixed ours last week. Steps stopped working at all after being erratic for a couple of days. In searching for the 12 VDC that supplies the power we discovered that the wiring from the inside switch and the wiring from the batteries did not go all the way to the 4-wire power connector under the steps.

They stopped short and were butt-splice connected to the 4-wire power connector wires (of course they changed wire colors too). The problem ended up being that the three butt-splice connectors were not protected from the weather elements and the splices simply rotted. Added three new butt-splice connectors and lots of black plastic tape to keep the elements off of them, and presto - working steps.

[Retiredblade]

I had problems with my steps also, wouldn't go in or out. Went on line, got the trouble shooting manual, followed it step by step. It pointed the trouble to the motor. I took the motor off and bench tested it, that was the problem. The big problem was finding a motor, it is strange how prices vary, then while reading on the rv forum, I found that a 95 Ford Tarus drivers side power window motor would work. I researched and low and behold, the pictures showed it to be the same. I ordered it on line for $39.00, shipping included! It works perfectly! Thanks forum, which ever one it was!