Community Forums

ga traveler · 12-05-2019, 04:21 PM

As a service manager I repaired and replaced many kwikee steps. Driving with the steps out is a quick way to trouble. I finally installed a steps out light on the dash. I found a round red led marker light. It is about the size of a nickel. I installed it in the dash at the bottom of the speedometer cluster. I ran a wire to the steps and installed a magnetic switch that opens the ground when the steps are closed. As soon as the steps go out the light comes on and no way are you going to miss a bright red light staring you in the face.

chuckftboy · 12-05-2019, 08:51 PM

That was a good idea. Probably would work for a satellite dish too My jacks already have a dash light like that.

garyre · 12-05-2019, 09:37 PM

I guess it will stay on the entire the steps are out...can in be wired in to the switch that disables the steps while set-up?

Jim18655 · 12-06-2019, 05:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by garyre

I guess it will stay on the entire the steps are out...can in be wired in to the switch that disables the steps while set-up?

You could forget to turn the power on. Just use a line that is only live when the key is on.

ga traveler · 12-06-2019, 07:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jim18655

You could forget to turn the power on. Just use a line that is only live when the key is on.

Jim is right. It is wired through the switch. The light only comes on when the steps or out and the ignition switch is on.

Ray,IN · 12-06-2019, 06:55 PM

Great idea! I have one that is OEM for the antenna already. That will be a winter project while MH is parked for the winter, I even have the parts already.

Monkey Run · 12-06-2019, 09:49 PM

I don't understand the problem here. My old coach retracts the steps as soon as the engine is started. Is there a malfunction which causes the steps to not retract?

ga traveler · 12-07-2019, 06:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Monkey Run

I don't understand the problem here. My old coach retracts the steps as soon as the engine is started. Is there a malfunction which causes the steps to not retract?

YES! The steps can get jammed or the control can malfunction. Many people latch the door open and decide to move the coach a few feet and don't think about the steps being out.

Blandry29 · 12-07-2019, 10:13 PM

On my coach, the steps are activated by a magnetic reed switch on the screen door frame. Recently the magnet that closes the switch fell off the door, and the steps extended while I was driving down the highway. A frantic pantomime by a passing good samaritan alterted me, but having the light would have been nice. You can avoid this by flipping the "steps" toggle before traveling, but this is a PITA, and increases the possibility of the DW taking a tumble when the steps don't extend when we arrive. I see a project in my future!

Monkey Run · 12-09-2019, 09:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ga traveler

YES! The steps can get jammed or the control can malfunction. Many people latch the door open and decide to move the coach a few feet and don't think about the steps being out.

OK, I see what's going on, thanks. I can hear mine operate when I close the door, so I'm quite aware of them.

Dom · 12-09-2019, 09:52 AM

Thanks for the advise. Now I have another spring project.

RunningHard · 12-09-2019, 11:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Monkey Run

OK, I see what's going on, thanks. I can hear mine operate when I close the door, so I'm quite aware of them.

Agreed. Very clearly can hear mine retract. 🕶

exrench · 12-10-2019, 07:01 AM

The steps have always been on my Check List.

RonLC · 12-10-2019, 07:08 AM

I am in fear of parking near a curb where the steps will hit it when extending. I guess that would do some damage. I have not been told of a automatic retract when it cannot go out in full.