Community Forums

Bill0828 · 04-24-2008, 04:47 PM

I went out to the MH today to do a small repair. When I opened the main door, the stairs failed to extend. I've checked the main switch,its on. Checked the 5 amp fuse under the dash, not blown and tests OK. So, whats the next test to conduct? Connections under the RV at the elctrical junctions?
Just looking for some experienced suggestions.

Bill0828 · 04-24-2008, 04:47 PM

I went out to the MH today to do a small repair. When I opened the main door, the stairs failed to extend. I've checked the main switch,its on. Checked the 5 amp fuse under the dash, not blown and tests OK. So, whats the next test to conduct? Connections under the RV at the elctrical junctions?
Just looking for some experienced suggestions.

AFChap · 04-24-2008, 06:28 PM

Dead/nearly dead chassis batteries?

paz · 04-25-2008, 02:47 AM

Well, it may seem too obvious, but is the switch for the steps on? If it's off, the steps will stay in whatever position they were when the switch was turned off.

If it's not the switch, then my next guess is the battery as AFChap suggests. If the battery are charged, the magnetic switch that senses whether the door is open or closed may be bad or out of adjustment. It may think the door is still closed. Other than that, there may be a solenoid that interlocks the steps with the ignition switch that is stuck or that has burned out.

Good luck. Let us know what the problem is once you find out what it is.

Bill Davis · 04-25-2008, 06:01 AM

Take a close look at Ground wire connection to frame. If it's like mine, is in an area subject to much corrosion and road spray. In an electrical circuit, Ground is as important as Positive connection. If you don't have both, it doesn't work.

"007" · 04-25-2008, 09:53 AM

If all those good suggestions do not work lift up on your brake pedel, the stairs work thru the brake switch.

Bill0828 · 04-25-2008, 03:08 PM

Thanks for the responses guys, I did a test light check for power coming into the stair controller. It checked OK. However, nothing coming out. soooo...I think I'll just live with it and see if I can get it fixed at the Newmar International by one of the techs. Now,If I can just remember the step stool!

John66 · 04-25-2008, 04:25 PM

I've got a solinoid which cuts out the house 12v, and a switch which shuts off the chassis 12v to minimize battery drain while in storage. If either of these are 'on' (shutting off the power), the stairs do not work. I think this because the stair motor is powered by the chassis circuits, but the sensors work off the house circuits.