Kwikee Step

[John S.]

It looks like my Step gears just broke. I took it apart and tried to reset the gears it runs on but only got it to be quiet on the way out. It was a pain putting the pin back in on gravel. I will take it all apart when I get home and replace all three parts. It looks like an easy switch but boy they make it hard to fit because you have to do it with the step out.

[Vlamgat]

Several of us have had the same experience. I reckon the problem is generated by our unwillingness to wait for the step to fully extend (motor stops) before putting a foot on the step. This rush to enter/exit puts too much load on the components resulting in transmission fail or motor burn out. You also have to remember to lubricate it frequently which is messy because the components are not designed to be lubricated with lots of metal on metal interference fit rods that do not seem to run in bearings or bushings. Robust yes but lasting...not so much. The lubricant the manufacturer specifies is not the common WD-40 type being much heavier and presumably more weather resistant. Its available from Amazon though.

Having gone through the replacement process that you have done, I am restraining myself and others from going near the them before they complete their cycle.

[John S.]

We will see how long this lasts.

[John S.]

Well, I ordered the parts and replaced it with a minimum of fuss and it works great on this trip. No more going in and out. I did clean off the contacts at the bottom of the door. There was rust on them so I used some emory cloth to clean them off.