Community Forums

countrykid · 11-20-2010, 01:27 PM

2001 National Tradewinds. Step has never been a problem until this winter when the step was extended and I shut the door and the step went in and then a LOUD POP! The actuator arm snapped. The steps move in and out freely when not connected to the linkage. I had it welded and worked great about 10 times and today it broke going in. I sounds like the motor did not sense the stopping point. Is this possible.???? New motor???? Thanks

cmchase · 11-20-2010, 01:59 PM

The step operates from the control module and it works on resistance of the step or linkage. If the module is defective it will keep applying pressure.

countrykid · 11-20-2010, 02:20 PM

I will check the series # and order a control module then I will have to figure out if the linkage arm comes off the motor or I will have to get the entire motor assembly!!

Acker1 · 11-20-2010, 07:06 PM

I would start with new linkage. If it's broke there is no resistance for the module to stop the steps. Cheaper than a new module. The linkage on mine is pot metal. I've had mine break before.
The linkage arm does come off the motor and is replaceable.

DICK

countrykid · 11-20-2010, 07:16 PM

Yep! Mine is also pot metal. What is wrong with something stronger? I susposed it would force the preasure somewhere else that is more expensive. Thanks

darbyjudy · 11-20-2010, 09:15 PM

I broke the linkage on mine once but it was my fault. I stepped on the step while it was on the way out and it popped. So now I wait and make sure it is all the way out and stopped before stepping on it.

cmchase · 11-21-2010, 09:14 AM

The linkage can be removed by taking 3 -3/8" bolts out on plate covering motor with a hole in the center--the linkage is attached to a square shank about 4" long and a 1/2" square and will pull out of gearbox.

Wanabee FTer · 11-21-2010, 09:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cmchase

The step operates from the control module and it works on resistance of the step or linkage. If the module is defective it will keep applying pressure.

The motors for Kwikee steps use an automotive power window motor to power the steps. When used in a car, they don't use a control module. If you stick your arm outside the window and roll it up, the motor by design will stop before severing your arm off. Even though the motor has enough power to inflict injury, when it encounters resistance it shuts the power off.
The design of the step has built in stops to force the motor to shut off. The control modules job is to tell the motor when it should or should not operate.
I agree with Acker1, replace the broken pot metal linkage, and check the start, stop travel adjustments on the step. Also make sure there is no bent or damaged mechanisms causing excessive stress on the motor linkage during operation.

countrykid · 11-21-2010, 10:22 AM

Will pull and replace the linkage and check the step adjustments per Kwikee's instructions and free play. Thanks for the replys.

countrykid · 11-21-2010, 04:59 PM

Cmchase. I pulled the linkage and I assume it all comes together when ordered, as there are 3 different numbers stamped on them. Square shaft #151414,arm #151364, swivel end for pin is # 151342. They looked liked they are pressed on. As far as adusting in and out limits on the step, I only see stops for extended and they do not have a sliding adjustment.

Wanabee FTer · 11-21-2010, 06:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by countrykid

. As far as adusting in and out limits on the step, I only see stops for extended and they do not have a sliding adjustment.

The adjustment cams are attached to the bolts on the side frame/bracket. To adjust, loosen the bolt and reposition the cam to limit the in and out stops for the linkage.

HarveyP · 11-23-2010, 02:46 PM

I replaced mine in Yuma last year. The total cost for the part was under $50. HarveyP

codgerbill · 11-24-2010, 06:54 AM

I had a problem with the Kwickee steps on my 2000 Winnebago Adventurer. The steps would not come out. The problem was the motor. The motor is a 12 volt DC motor. It has a segmented commutator that after years gets covered with dirt/dust and caused the brushes to loos contact. Banging the motor with a hammer allowed the brushes to regain contact and start working again, but after traveling for a while the problem reoccurred. I ordered a new motor and the motor didn't fit. I ended up returning the motor and ordered the whole assembly (motor,linkage, control module). It was easy to install and everything fit with the replacement. I found that it was impossible to speak to someone from Kwikee. They were bought out by Powergear recently but I still could not talk to anyone on the phone. I had to order the parts at an RV dealer and the first order (motor) was a sort of educated guess. One good thing is that you can download the manual from the kwickee web site and it includes instructions on how to replace items.