Exterior Steps Problem - 17 Dutch Star

[specmga1]

My steps will not fully open. They open enough to use but they are not coming out all the way. Any ideas? Thanks!

[Iceclimber]

Lube everything. All the moving parts. I used Houdini on mine and viola they were like new steps. Also they smell better.

[specmga1]

Originally Posted by Iceclimber

Lube everything. All the moving parts. I used Houdini on mine and viola they were like new steps. Also they smell better.

They don’t need lubrication. They move fine. It’s just the last couple of inches. I can easily pull them out all the way but they won’t stay out.

[palehorse89]

Originally Posted by specmga1

They don’t need lubrication. They move fine. It’s just the last couple of inches. I can easily pull them out all the way but they won’t stay out.

The plastic gear that the motor worm gear shaft turns is stripped, teeth gone........very common problem, the plastic gear is the weak point of the motor system.
This just might be the gear you need, I didn't know it was sold separately...... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08GS4FZ35...b_b_asin_title

[specmga1]

Originally Posted by palehorse89

The plastic gear that the motor worm gear shaft turns is stripped, teeth gone........very common problem, the plastic gear is the weak point of the motor system.
This just might be the gear you need, I didn't know it was sold separately...... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08GS4FZ35...b_b_asin_title

Thanks! Is this definitely the part?

[palehorse89]

Originally Posted by specmga1

Thanks! Is this definitely the part?

If you go to the bottom of the page, questions n answers, is good info. on the motors it fits. Ya going to go under and get the motor number......and go from there. Fixed a friends steps last winter, same symptoms as yours, replaced the whole unit, as said , didn't know they sold just the gear till just searching for you and stumbled onto it......

[Bobby Dowdle]

You need a new step motor. If you aren't sure that will take care of it, you can order a conversion kit and it comes with the motor and new gear assembly. Contact your selling dealer or any NIRVC parts or service department for further assistance with this issue. It's usually just the motor is getting weak. If the step comes out and hits something, the motor is designed to shut off and not cause damage to the step. Sounds like it's getting weak and won't fully extend.

[shepardmike]

I would just get a new one. They are easy to swap. Before you install it, apply a liberal amount of silicone to the area where the motor connects. That step motor can get wet during certain conditions and their cheap seals dry out and crack and let water in.