Community Forums

rssnape · 06-27-2015, 04:47 PM

My series 32 kwikee step is stuttering in the middle of the swing going both in and out. I can push or pull to give assistance and the step can eventually fully close or open. I believe that the problem is the gear is stripped.
My question: Is this normally the gear that comes on the motor or is this in the gear box?
Thanks in advance.
Scott

1997 Tiffen Allegro Bus 37', Cat 3126

macantic · 06-27-2015, 04:54 PM

when mine did that it was the gears in the box the gear on the motor was ok.make sure you keep all pivot points lubed.

lanerd · 06-27-2015, 04:57 PM

Go over to the Tiffin Network forum...there are several Kwikee step problems posts being worked on right now.

I realize that other mfg's use these steps (including mine) , but in my opinion, they are junk. I just don't think they are designed to handle the weight of large sized Americans (of which I am one).

My answer to this problem (at least so far) is to put a scissor jack under the bottom step to relieve the weight off of the steps. That and keeping the pivot point lubed. Just gotta remember to remove the jack before pulling the steps in.

Ron

rssnape · 06-27-2015, 05:08 PM

Mine is a Tiffen as well. I fit into the large American category and remember jumping out before the step fully extended on this trip. So I will check it out there to see if I can decipher what part I need to replace.
Thanks

1997 Tiffen Allegro Bus 37', Cat 3126

NHRA225 · 06-27-2015, 05:10 PM

Shuttering is usually related to the Gear itself or the Plastic retention plugs located in your Motor gear- Yes I said Plastic. Note the NAPA Part #
Based on the year of your coach they have most likely never been changed- see the attached picture. If you are Mechanically inclined remove the motor and take a look see inside--- That's My Bet !

rssnape · 06-28-2015, 10:17 AM

Thanks I am going to try the Napa part as it was the plastic plugs that were destroyed.

1997 Tiffen Allegro Bus 37', Cat 3126

NHRA225 · 06-28-2015, 10:25 AM

Take note the the plugs May need a little sanding to properly fit and lube them up along with the gear prior to assembly.
Let us know the outcome.
By the way these same kits are in you're window regulator motors too !

rssnape · 06-28-2015, 01:48 PM

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I bought these from Autozone and put them in. They go in much easier if you hold all three alongside the Tri gear and insert it into the plastic gear.
Steps work great but I did see some worn items that I need to replace. At least I have some warning before they fail.

Thanks for everyone's help!

1997 Tiffen Allegro Bus 37', Cat 3126

lanerd · 06-29-2015, 10:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rssnape

Mine is a Tiffen as well. I fit into the large American category and remember jumping out before the step fully extended on this trip. So I will check it out there to see if I can decipher what part I need to replace.
Thanks

1997 Tiffen Allegro Bus 37', Cat 3126

Just for clarity....you have a Tiffin...not Tiffen. Might want to change your signature.

Ron

rssnape · 06-30-2015, 05:18 AM

Thanks, funny that I never noticed that. Classic think you got it right and keep misspelling forevermore.

1997 Tiffin Allegro Bus 37', Cat 3126

rssnape · 06-30-2015, 05:21 AM

One thought I had was if anyone else ran into this problem of the plastic plugs being ground up, and could find the parts could probably make them by cutting off 1/4 Wooden dowel.

1997 Tiffin Allegro Bus 37', Cat 3126

NHRA225 · 06-30-2015, 05:28 AM

When I researched my step issue years ago I was looking into 1/4 inch phenolic dowels to replace the crushed up mess in the gears. Then I stumbled on that kit for just a few bucks it was all there. I also replaced the ones on my window regulator Motors as well.

TQ60 · 06-30-2015, 08:14 AM

There is another issue here and I will post on this thread since it has good photos.

Inside the gear there is a pocket that the driver sits in.

The cushions are just that...cushions.

The pocket is shallow to allow it to come out in a real bind then the cushions get wiped out.

You look inside the gear and if wallowed out you need new gear AND SOME WORK.

The shift may have too much end play or it may lift up and away from the gearbox allowing the drive gear to lift and clear the pockets then it grinds up the cushions.

The fix. ..

The shift is CASE HARDENED so you need carbide drill or a small grinder to cut through the surface on the END of the shaft.

Then drill and tap for 10-32 threads about 3/8 deep.

Assemble gearbox then insert screw with washers to make snug fit.

Once good remove and use thread locker on screw threads.

Now the shaft cannot lift from pocket and it will last long time.