Community Forums

donnabonnett · 04-20-2013, 09:12 AM

I just purchased a 2004 National Rv, Sea Breeze LX. The steps won't go back in. The man that I purchased it from said that it works now and then, but now they are out and I can't get them to go back in. Are they controlled by a fuse? I'm fairly new at this, so not really familiar with how these things operate.
Any suggestions as to how to fix this, so I can get on the road again, it would be greatly appreciated.
Donna

Jim_HiTek · 04-20-2013, 09:47 AM

By far the most common cause for this is a dead battery. The step circuits don't operate with a low battery. Depends on the brand but some use the chassis battery and others use the house battery so check both sets.

Next, there is a magnet in the door that causes them to close, then, when the vehicle key is operated (when attempting to start the rig), that should close them as well.

Skip426 · 04-20-2013, 09:52 AM

Sorry your in with problems.
What brand of steps do you have? Should be a sticker on the controller , mounted on the step frame work.
The controller , gets a power feed from the battery & another from the ignition and has sensor on the door and an on/ off switch. the controller requires a good ground ; usually to the frame within 2' of the controller.
If you have a set of Kwikee steps , visit their web site and download a manual. My Kwikee wiring diagram shows a circuit breaker from the battery, a fuse from the ignition and a fuse in the switch circuit.

spritz · 04-20-2013, 10:17 AM

ours did the same thing last season on our 82 Pace Arrow. We took the switch off and cleaned it, it was full of dirt and sand. Put it back on and hasn't given us a problem since. Be sure the switch is on or off? Might it have been bumped?
Tim

countdemonet · 04-20-2013, 12:19 PM

Our similar problem was the magnetic switch. It was slightly out of position on its bracket. Test with a small magnet. If that works then bend the bracket to be aligned with the magnet on the door.

Let us know if you resolve the probblem.

Dunner · 04-20-2013, 03:37 PM

Do they make any noise at all? They need to be lubricated well, as they sense any resistance to movement. If the switch is in the "always out" position, they won't move when the door is opened and closed. If the ignition key is turned to "on" they should close, no matter what position the step switch is in.

As others have said, check the fuse and battery, and use a small magnet at the door frame sensor to see if they react.

tompen · 04-20-2013, 04:49 PM

Is the switch (probably next to the door) on or off. If it is off (dark) they will stay out until you turn on the key. If the lighted switch is lit, they should go in when the door is closed. Assuming they are Kwikee. There is a pin on the motor that can be removed so you can put them in manually. BE CAREFUL.
When mine does that I kick the step. It usually works.