EASY RV STEP REPAIR - DIY Gear Linkage Replacement

Are your automatic RV steps stuck or making a loud noise? A bad step motor or gear linkage unit could be the problem. In this video I'll show you how the Kwikee automatic RV step works and how easy it is to REPLACE THE GEAR ASSEMBLY OR MOTOR YOURSELF.
KWIKEE RV STEP REPLACEMENT PARTS
www.rvwithtito.com/parts/rv-step
(VIDEO) RV STEP MOTOR REPLACEMENT VIDEO:
• Repair STUCK RV Step -...
KWIKEE STEP OWNERS AND TECHNICAL MANUALS FROM LIPPERT
support.lci1.com/kwikee-steps
MORE ABOUT THIS EPISODE
(Link to full article: rvwithtito.com/articles/repai...)
After abusing the automatic steps on my RV for many years, the components have been wearing down.
Our RV has Kwikee Automatic step which I believe has been purchased by Lippert.
Last year I replaced the motor when the steps stopped working all together. Watch that video here: • Repair STUCK RV Step -... .
But recently, the steps started making a loud tapping noise when fully closed. After some troubleshooting, I figure out the problems was a bad gear/linkage unit. So I purchased a new one and proceeded with the replacement.
Replacing the gear/linkage assembly was not very difficult. Here's how to do it:
1. Disconnect power from the step
2. Disconnect the power plug from the motor assembly
3. Using a 10mm socket, remove the 3 screws holding the motor assembly
4. Lower it straight down being certain not to drop the gear, washers and pin on the gear assembly side of the motor
5. Remove the four bolts on each corner of the gear assembly
6. Remove the lock wire and pin from the arm connecting the step to the gear assembly
7. Remove the gear assembly and replace it with a new one
8. Reinstall the motor using the new gear (the small one) from the gear assembly
9. Insert the three bolts securing the motor
10. Reconnect main step power (four way connector) while staying clear of moving parts
11. Test Step operation
#rvwithtito #rvdiy
DISCLAIMER
The opinions expressed in our videos are our own or from a contributor. Before taking on any project or making a large purchase, we recommend you do your own research and consult a professional for advice. We are NOT liable for any damage to your RV or injury incurred as a result of following our tips, advice or instructions. We are not RV professionals or certified technicians. We are simply RV owners who work on our own RVs and have a desire to share what we learn with others. Be responsible and know your limits.
AFFILIATE DISCLAIMER
This video may include links to merchants with affilliate programs who pay us a commission on purchases made or actions taken after clicking the link. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

[@karlbartelt3939]

A good man is one who fixes all the problems he creates, a great man prevents others from making the same mistakes. Good Job!

[@RVwithTito]

I like that. Thanks!

[@raybbj]

This Old House should start a spin off show called This Old RV, starring Brito. Nice Repair Brian!

[@RVwithTito]

Hehe. Brito is on vacation.

[@RVPastorKevin]

Brian, As always, great video man! One note, possibly not the case in your specific gear housing, but SOMETIMES the gear inside the gear housing is a full circle. To fix the broken teeth problem, you can remove the bolt that connects the swing arm to the steps, and once that is taken off, you can independently rotate the entire inner gear housing 180 degrees, (the back side of that gear has teeth that are pristine) so reconnect the bolt and swing arm so that the good teeth mate with the motor and the broken area is towards the back, unused, in the housing. So rather than replace the entire housing, you can just move the broken teeth to the back and use the other half of the internal gear to mate with the motor's gears.

[@RVwithTito]

That's a great idea. Didn't think of that, but it should work fine as a workaround.

[@chrisfoxwell4128]

That was my first thought; just rotate the gear.

[@GrandCanyonRVResort]

I was wondering the same thing…I’m afraid trying to order these parts during COVID might be a challenge

[@davehertle]

I thought of that later, but also noticed some chipped teeth on the small gear. It is certainly an option to make the chattering go away until you can get the rig back home to do it right.

[@evanmitton5007]

Thanks for the tip will repair mine here 😀👏

[@NorthRiverFishin]

Great video! I had the same issue and ended up fixing it. We’ll see how long it will last. I removed the assembly, removed the motor, took the big nut off the center bolt. Had to also push out the bolt lock which is below the nut. And then I was able to remove the moving arm. Then I turned the gear 180 degrees to the other side where there is no damage. And put everything back together. Everything works good now!

[@rickwheeler7480]

Thank you so much. My steps were doing that exact same thing. I figured like you, a gear. Looks like a simple repair. Now I just have to figure what part for my 1997 Southwind

[@kimhenson2706]

$$ Saver - You can rotate the gear inside the assembly by removing the bolt and cotter pin that holds the swing arm on. Once the swing arm is removed, rotate the gear 180 and reattach the swing arm. you basically get to use the other half of the gear that should be pristine which will save you from having to replace the gear assembly.

[@mjkraken]

Tito, we had the exact same thing happen to our RV steps two weekends ago. Thanks to you, we followed your video exactly and 30 minutes later, steps were fixed! Can’t thank you enough as I was about to replace the whole motor and gear assembly for more than 3x more the cost. Wishing you safe travels, Mike

[@RVwithTito]

That's great! Glad the video helped you out.

[@davehertle]

Thank You. When my steps started making the same chattering noise, your video got me moving in the correct direction. I ordered the part online, removed the gear linkage and found the same issue with broken gears. I kept the motor intact, removed the gear linkage, put in the new part, reattached the new arm, also s-shaped like yours, that put the motor back in. Very pleased that the step worked properly. I would have saved myself some crowded effort if I would have rolled the right side of the RV up on some boards. It got a little crowded working below that step. Something that could have helped would have been a block or some type of support to have held the gear linkage box in place while I got the nuts started. Also, a little grease on the threads of the bolts to hold the washer in place until you get the nut started. You are working upside down here, but the temptation is to roll the RV over onto its back, LOL!

[@mcgrawmike]

Very nice video and you saved me a lot of time. Your links to these parts was soooo very helpful. Also you did a real nice job on this and are an excellent teacher.

[@dougr7721]

Thanks Tito, or Brian, or whatever you are calling yourself these days. My stairs were making a horrible grinding noise when opening and retracting that stopped once I kicked the stairs. And while it was a nice conversation starter at the campgrounds, it was giving me a lobotomy . I started with the gear linkage replacement due to the sounds made and fact that the motor appeared to be working (had power and was engaging with linkage). There were no broken teeth in the gearbox but when reassembled it was still grinding and not properly engaging. Ordered a new motor and when replacing that noticed that I may have added a third washer on the gear housing shaft (which may have caused the gears to not properly engage) so just went with two with the new motor. After reconnecting the wires and not chopping any limbs off, I had the pleasure of testing and voila, it is working like new. Mahalo for the education and I owe you a cold one. See you out there.

[@damongonzaga658]

Great video as usual. I love watching your videos and now I will also let the step fully extend before treading on it. Thanks again

[@optionstraderman]

I just replaced the motor on a neighbors steps because the actual problem was a worn out plastic gear inside the main motor assembly. The motor's Worm Gear was turning against the larger plastic gear inside the assembly, but the big plastic gear was not, and thus I found a damaged plastic gear. While doing the replacement, I found an installation manual for the Kwikee Steps, and part of the Testing process is to insure that when the steps are all the way out, that they are in the "Locked Position". Watching this video, it appears that when your replaced the gear box, you did not move the short straight "Linkage" part from the old gear box over to the new one, replacing the curved "Linkage" part with the original one. By doing this, yes, the steps appear to extend, but unfortunately, the big transmission gear assembly is not reaching the "Locking Position" which is a Metal Cast Nub on the Main gearbox body. There is also another Cast Nub on the gearbox body for the fully up position, and everything I have read indicates that the big main gear arm that drive the "Linkage" should be firmly be against either one or the other of these Cast Metal Nub stops when in the fully up or fully down position. I inspected the one I was working one, and indeed, this is the case. If the extension arm is not allowed to reach the fully extended and locked Cast Metal NUB on the outside of the gearbox, all of your weight when standing on the steps is pressing on the plastic gear inside the motor assembly and will likely eventually break the teeth on that plastic gear, requiring another new motor assembly. Here is a link to the manual talking about troubleshooting your steps that may help you to see what I'm talking about. The adjustment of the steps is near the end of the manual, Figure 17 and 18 with instructions above the images. lci-support-doc.s3.amazonaws.com/manuals/steps/ccd-0001625.pdf Great Video, hope all is working well for you now.

[@shawnthompson5718]

I found your video super helpful. Should have been a 30 minute or less job….however my steps were stuck in the “in” position. 10mm wrench, about a 1/4 thread at a time in a super tight space. But….got it done. Thanks for a detailed video. I went ahead and replaced both parts at one time.

[@RVwithTito]

Great job! Glad the video helped you out.

[@dm9739]

Hi Brian. I just had the same problem. I removed the gear box and saw the broken teeth. Unfortunately it’s Sunday and I’m going on a trip tomorrow morning. I was able to open the gear box and rotate the gear about 180 degree. It works perfect, for now. Thanks for your help. You saved the trip.

[@RVwithTito]

Yup. That works. I could have done that too if I hadn't already ordered the replacement.

[@jcblackmon]

Your not the only one with this problem....good ol’ Quikee Steps! As far as crawling under, I keep an old cardboard box in the garage, great for ‘sliding’ underneath to take care of anything.

[@RVwithTito]

Yes. I have lots of extra cardboard I use for mocking things up before building.

[@Jim.Hummel]

A true step-by-step video! Great job!

[@RVwithTito]

Glad you enjoyed it. 👍

[@my74vette]

Good job..... I really enjoy all of the videos that you post. Thanks..

[@raysmalley4647]

I'm having an issue with my stairs and your video definitely helped me see how easy that gear assembly is to replace.

[@RVwithTito]

Glad to hear. Yes. Its easier than you think.

[@boydkarr1299]

Great videos. I also hit our step against a curb in a construction zone late one evening. been about 2 years since it worked correctly. Followed the gear box video great job.

[@RVwithTito]

Mine is still a bit crooked, but it works :)

[@Breatheeasyrealtor]

I had the same. So happy for your vids

[@williamelliott5041]

Thanks, great video. Learned a lot about how my steps work.

[@RVwithTito]

Great! Now you know :)

[@ritchgilleland6279]

Another outstanding video sir - please keep the videos coming :)

[@RVwithTito]

Certainly will. Thanks!

[@marketshare5273]

Nice camer footage of the repair great video. 👊👍😎

[@RVwithTito]

Thanks. It's a tight squeeze under there :)

[@gregmartin2284]

Well done, very helpful. Thanks!!

[@doryb4808]

Thank you. Your video and someone else's video helped us fix ours on the road. 2011 navion. We did have to replace our motor.

[@RVwithTito]

Glad you were able to get it done. Great job!

[@naranman]

Great video, thanks for the effort putting this together.

[@RVwithTito]

You bet👍

[@DinoCarroll]

Thank you so much!!! Both videos were very helpful!!!!

[@RVwithTito]

You're so welcome Dino!

[@tshainassch2567]

Great! That is what i was sourching for. Thanks.

[@mjkraken]

This is great, thanks!

[@texasproud3332]

Good video very informative

[@raymondschneider5217]

Sorry you had the problem, but, another GREAT "how-to" video instruction. Thanks for sharing both the installation AND the explanation of possible "why" the failure! Y'all Be Safe!

[@RVwithTito]

Glad you liked it. Hope you don't need it :)

[@tammyblanchette704]

Agree but we don't step on ours until it is fully extended and still had the problem so I don't think that's the cause

[@kakurooch8170]

Thank you for useful and helpful video

[@RVwithTito]

You're welcome!

[@chuckanders7114]

Thank you for the video. It is helpful.

[@RVwithTito]

You are welcome!

[@LanceMcCormick]

Nice job on the repair!

[@RVwithTito]

Thanks Lance!

[@alpileggi9735]

Great instructional video. I use a yoga mat to lie on. Just roll it out and crawl on it. They're cheap and padded or just borrow one from your spouse, but don't get it dirty (lol).

[@troybrackett1240]

I appreciate your video… it gave me the confidence to tackle my own ‘tommy gun’ steps and problem is now resolved!

[@RVwithTito]

Great to hear 👍

[@denisthornton2489]

Can you tell me the part number please and where you ordered it from.

[@genethomsen9459]

Thank you for this video...this is a different configuration than I have, but they all seem to work on the same premise. I did discover a couple things that might be helpful also. #1 the motor sometimes just gets a dirty comutator (sp).you can take the cover off of the armature & pull the whole assembly out...watch out you don't damage the brushes...clean up the comutator with scotch bright...do not use steel wool, it will leave shards of steel in the slots which can short out. Put it back together & give it a test. If all is good...put it all back together. #2 a lot of these motors are the same ones used in power windows. You could bring yours into the local junkyard & find one to match...you would have to see if it would be the left or right one. If you find one it would be about 1/10 the retail price. The other thing you could do is bring your motor into an auto parts store & have them match it up. I would think they could then tell you what make & model it would fit if you still wanted to try the junkyard. Either way it will be a LOT cheaper than through an RV dealer. Just some thoughts.

[@michellewalker8240]

Thank you! This is just what I needed. The arm to my gear broken. I wonder if I can just replace that. If not, this seems like something I can replace.

[@btj1844]

Morning Brian, nice video.

[@RVwithTito]

Morning! Thanks.

[@raidwahieb6921]

Thank you for everything you do

[@RVwithTito]

Glad to help. Thanks for watching!

[@BC-yw2tw]

Well presented and your camera work is great. Waiting for gear box to arrive, had the exact same problem. You make it look easy, time will tell. Thanks.

[@RVwithTito]

It's pretty easy as you'll find.

[@BC-yw2tw]

With the grinding noise I assumed it was the gear box and ordered one. When it arrived and I took the old one off the teeth looked fine. Anyways I put the new gear box on thinking the problem may be unrelated to the teeth but still bad. So it had to be the electric motor which it was. Have to replace the whole motor, can’t order the nylon gear assembly where teeth are missing. Put it on and problem resolved. Rule of thumb check your gear teeth BEFORE you order. If ok it’s probably the electric motor. I now have a back up gear box which should ensure I will never have a gear box problem again. Thanks.

[@RVwithTito]

@@BC-yw2tw Depending on the age of your gear box, the new one may be better. That was the case with mine. The design of the arm on the new one pulled the step in a little tighter. Thanks for sharing your troubleshooting.

[@waynetellinghuisen6392]

Another excellent instructional vlog. Good job. Keep them coming.

[@RVwithTito]

Thanks Wayne. Appreciate it!

[@glennrogers2165]

great job! Just the problem I had! I wondered if the gear and motor could both be removed, together, just by undoing the pin to the steps and the power supplies. then the 4 bolts on the gear assembly?...Just trying to limit time underneath, on my back!!!

[@RVwithTito]

@@glennrogers2165 Yes. That's correct.

[@glennrogers2165]

@@RVwithTito thanks so much for the reply! I'm on my 3rd rv..two a's and now a c the a's had jacks..easy to get under..the c, not so much...

[@harryhammock195]

Great Video it diagnosed my problem exactly same sound and I too have stepped on step as it is on its way out causing this problem as well. The only thing i see is the change in arm configuration I think you are going to take out the plastic motor gear real fast. That last power pull it makes is just too much for the plastic worm gear. Change it to the straight arm which is Arm B configuration. Just a thought! Thanks

[@Assassin1959]

Lol. Same happened to me yesterday and I should had watched your video one more time. The RV mobile tech came and replaced the motor for $410.... ouch. I only had to replace the motor not the gear assembly, but removing three bolts and installing three bolts for $410 was a little to much. Luckily my extended warranty took care of the cost. Now I know what to do next time.

[@RVwithTito]

Ouch Hector! At least it was covered by your warrantee and you got to give your mobile tech some business :)

[@richardpando8713]

very helpful

[@Joe33305]

Great video. I currently have this exact probmem on my '98 Gulfstream.

[@RVwithTito]

Well there you go. Now you can fix it 👍

[@AmericaFirst777]

This video really helped me. Thank you so much for sharing.. Ed

[@RVwithTito]

Glad it helped. You're welcome!

[@tary0074]

EXCELLENT VIDEO , WELL PRESENTED 🎁

[@RVwithTito]

Thanks. Glad you enjoyed it

[@billcullifer]

Great job

[@timf6916]

Good information

[@azimmey]

Thanks for the video, I was going to do the cheap way out and just spin the gear 180° but the wife got wind of it and she wanted me to spend $108 for the new gearbox so that’s what I did. Thanks for the video

[@purdyboi8078]

Ouch. Well alrighty then...I think we all just figured out what the Missus will be getting from you for Christmas this year...a pair of pants, obviously! 🤣 (I'm just teasing ya! I think we ALL understand that sometimes ya gotta do, what ya gotta do to keep things running nice & smooth!) 😉

[@randyvallis4973]

You make it look easy

[@RVwithTito]

It actually is pretty easy once you've crawled u Der there. It helps that I've fixed it before 😃

[@flipsrvlife4579]

Nice repair/replacement as always.

[@RVwithTito]

Thanks. Hopefully it stays fixed this time. If not....new video.

[@RVwithTito]

Thanks. Hopefully it stays fixed this time. If not....new video.

[@GrandCanyonRVResort]

Great video! Same happened to me because I was parked next to a high curb and when the door opened, the step couldn’t fully extend. Time to order some new parts (face in palm).

[@RVwithTito]

You got this...it's an easy replacement.

[@LanceMcCormick]

Just join this party! Loading up to take off Thursday and the Step Motor making noise and not working!

[@cadiec1150]

Thank you Brian, very informative , but like all others, nobody explain how to disconnect the finiki motor electric connector... so you can take the motor out.

[@DL30Creations]

Our steps went limp. Motor pushed them out partially and steps stopped but motor keeps spinning. I also can raise and lower them by hand easily while the motor spins. Underneath looks beat and seen better days plus one step is slightly crooked so will probably just replace the whole unit rather than go into this for bent steps. Very helpful video in itself for working on them.

[@jsosa1957]

great job

[@RVwithTito]

Thanks Jose!

[@tubulartom1]

I had the exact condition and I it to a local RV shop and they claimed they replaced the electronic control component first....then the motor, and after that another motor without solving the problem....a third trip there after they received the second new motor and it works fine....they never brought up the gear replacement but I wonder? I wish I had seen this video first and I may have tackled the job myself? Your diy videos are the best Brian. many thanks

[@RVwithTito]

Aha. 3 times is a charm. Yeah. I wonder.

[@robertcollins6170]

I was told I could just move the gear. I am fixing that this weekend. Hope to not buy another motor. 2017 Holiday Rambler(lemon), Vacationer.

[@sheltermutts4185]

Mine in the 2000 year rv hasn’t failed yet, but I am guilty of the impatience stepping you describe and will knock it off. Nice to know I can fix it now when it goes. I was under there recently trying to figure out how to replace that amber step light with an LED. But I couldn’t figure it out. Do you have any ideas for that? Another video? Thanks so much Brian. I don’t know whether you are costing me money or saving it, but I need to be able to fix this stuff myself in rural Montana. I am most grateful!

[@Nomadicrv]

While both the gear and motor are removed from the rv, would it be possible to attach the motor to the gear, then go under the rv and you would just have to attach the gear mechanism (motor already attached) to the rv. In other words just one thing to tighten up under the rv?

[@zenrvn4702]

My 2006 class C we are renovating just started making exact same popping noise when steps retract. I knew you would have the answer. Hubby has a new project!! Hope it’s as easy as you make it look. LOL

[@RVwithTito]

He should have no trouble. I hope the video helps him out.

[@zenrvn4702]

Helped like a charm! New part arrived today and just like yours the arm has more of a bend. Thor parts guy told me that was just a new version. Hubby had it installed in less than an hour. Your video made all the difference. Thanks again.

[@RVwithTito]

@@zenrvn4702 Excellent! That's great to hear and congrats on getting the step back up and running. Thanks for following up. I appreciate it.

[@dirtroadsailing6418]

Good job. To make working on your RV easier outside get a moving blanket from Harbor Freight and lay it down on the gravel, mud etc. If you mess it up, pitch it and buy another, they're super cheap.

[@RVwithTito]

Yeah. Good idea. I have a small rug I use sometimes too.

[@genethomsen9459]

I picked up a rubber yoga mat that I can roll up to store. Works great in wet or snow also as well as dirt or gravel. Easy to clean & dry too.

[@361phil]

Great video, thanks for taking the time! My steps are making the same noise, both when they are fully extended, and again when they fully retract. If I give them a push-in when they retract, or a lift when they extend, the noise will stop. I followed the video and removed the motor and linkage but did not find any broken gear teeth. I also checked the gear attached to the motor and it is fine also. Now, I am baffled; any suggestions will be much appreciated!

[@BrewNomads]

Did you figure it out? I have same issue. Motor and gear teeth are fine but it won’t fully retract or extend.

[@doodledoo46]

My 2013 Sunseeker did not come with the electric steps… Do you know where I could purchase steps that would fit my motorhome? Love your videos

[@philsmith5400]

My steps actually caught on fire while we were just sitting in a campground. LTV replaced it right away with no complaints, but it was scary!

[@RVwithTito]

Say what?! That's crazy.

[@saharts]

IMO you didn’t cause the broken gear. The damage was at the end of the cycle not the middle. Using the wrong grease can cause the gear to fail too. I don’t know if the wrong grease was used durning the motor replacement, just a thought. It was probably normal wear that caused the failure. Good video as always.

[@jamescorcoran4684]

Thank you very much. This started on my coach a while back. Could you share with me where you got the parts?

[@RVwithTito]

Picked up parts on Amazon. Links should be in the video description.

[@RonLeeHackett]

I have a one step on my 1999 Gulfstream Ultra Class C does anyone know a replacement motor and gear assy I have a part # but can't find anything

[@nonrevhogan8938]

Very cool install. Never had a auto step. Seems to be a lot of in and out if running in and out. Yep that makes sense. Is there not a switch that would override door switch? Just seems like there should be a switch by the door that would turn on and off system so it would just stay out when needed. But still leave the safety part of engine running not bypassing. Darn another RV with Tito DIY project.. LOL.

[@RVwithTito]

There is a switch by the door that does just that unless the engine is running. I used to have the ignition wire to the controller disconnected. Then I drove away once with my step out and bent the step on a curb. So I put it back 😃

[@nonrevhogan8938]

RV with Tito DIY Now that makes sense. I was like I’d probably step out and miss the step altogether. Ha. If it did that all the time. And yep could see me forgetting too doing last min stuff jumping in truck if I had disengaged it. Pretty neat set up.

[@genethomsen9459]

Yes there usually a sw. By the door for that...( don't quote me on that for all models though. If not it would be easy to put one in.

[@RVHabit]

Well you have replaced two of the three components on the step. I guess you should plan on ordering the control board because you know that's next. Just kidding of course. Nice job on the repair. Stay safe, Lou.

[@GenialHarryGrout]

Could you attach an override switch so the step stays open when you're camping to save wear and tear on the gearing every time you open/close the door?

[@RVwithTito]

There is one. It only closes if the switch is off. When the engine starts it also closes regardless of the switch position.

[@genethomsen9459]

Most... If not all RV's have a step sw. To shut it off either in the open or closed position.

[@Challway]

Hello! I see that the teeth of the gear are gone and worn out. Where did you find the replacement ? I have the same problem with my slide out. Some of the teeth on the gear assembly. Are broken off. I cannot find the part and the RV manufacturer was no help!

[@raymondrace4837]

Chris Hall I wonder if you were able to rotate the gear wheel to another part of the same wheel to extend its use? Is cost efficient to just get a new assembly?

[@RVwithTito]

I have a link to the parts in the description.

[@BC-yw2tw]

If you know your motor is fine and the problem is in the gear assembly, can you undo the four bolts holding it in place leaving the motor attached? I realize eventually it has to come off but would be easier to do on a work bench. Really enjoyed your two videos on step repair. Thanks.

[@BC-yw2tw]

Can you answer this? Thanks.

[@neilmccubbin4011]

It is quite easy to disconnect the wires then undo the four bolts holding the whole step assembly. On our LTV, the bolts are carriage bolts, and the upper end of the bolt is held by the square. Of course if the bolt is too rusty, it is not easy. I replaced the bolts when working, and greased them too

[@johni4108]

Another way to fix this problem if you have the tool and no parts store is available. 1. Do what you did to remove motor and gear/rod assemble. 2. Being your plastic gear broke a few teeth off on one side of the round gear you can remove the rod assemble 3. Then rotate the gear with the broken teeth 180 degrees and you will have all new gears on the side you need it. 4. Reattach the arm back on like it was originally.You know will use the other half of the gear that was never used. Hope this helps you and other that may have this problem.40 plus years of RVing has made be dangerous. LOL

[@RVwithTito]

Now we're all dangerous 👍👍Thanks for the pro tip. I think a couple others also recommended that workaround 😀

[@kiltyintherockies]

Unfortunately our Allegro has a different step motor A&E Model L46 E P/N 954601 so I need to keep searching for the fix on the motor assembly. Good video though. Thanks.

[@ae4xo]

Time to install more ride

[@darrylb4048]

So what is the orange light for????? Good vid.

[@RVwithTito]

Just to light up the step when opening at night.

[@JHA6100]

💜

[@elysianfields6350]

Absolute necessity....2 X 4 ft leftover cardboard piece to slide under for oil changes and assorted projects.

[@jenniferduhon4770]

Are there any plastic parts on your old gear assembly?

[@RVwithTito]

I don't think so...just in the motor.

[@johngerres4218]

My problem is the steps got bent when they tried to deploy and hit a concrete pad that was to high. They make noise going in and coming out. I'm trying different things to fix the problem. Worst case is buying new steps at $360. Seems like it's always something going wrong!

[@goldslinger]

As much as anything, lack of lubricating ALL pivot points of the step and mech will cause premature failure. I noticed how dry and rusty the armature pin was. Twice a year, squirt some lube on everything

[@garrywattel1345]

My step is acting up also. My step does want to float a bit back in when it is out. is that normal?or soba that mean the gears are worn.

[@RVwithTito]

No. It shouldn't do that. I'd crawl under and see what's moving. Could be worn gears.

[@optionstraderman]

KwiKee Steps should open far enough to "LOCK" into position. Look on the bottom of the Metal Gearbox and you will find 2 big metal NUB's cast into the gearbox. When the steps are fully extended, the swingarm shaft should be tight against one of the Cast Nubs, and when fully retracted, it should be against the other Cast Nub. This will take the pressure off of the motor assembly when the step is in use. Be sure to use your original straight "Linkage" on the new Cast Gearbox if you have to replace the Gearbox. If your just replacing the Motor assembly, follow the steps in the troubleshooting section of the KwiKee manual to insure that the steps are adjusted correctly so that they "Lock" correctly when extended. If your steps are identical to the ones in the video, you will need to remove the curved swingarm and replace it with the one on your old gearbox for things to line up and work correctly with the locking function. lci-support-doc.s3.amazonaws.com/manuals/steps/ccd-0001625.pdf

[@gbressler]

I use Harbor Freight packing blankets on the ground to lie on.

[@RVwithTito]

Thanks. That'll work too. I do have a moving blanket and also use a small rug that I keep in the RV entry.

[@dennishumston9270]

The motor looks like my awing motor ? Are they the same ?

[@RVwithTito]

Might be, but I don't know. I have an old-school awning...no motor.

[@middlehot]

Could we just turn the gear to the other side?

[@RVwithTito]

Yes. I believe so.

[@solavarria1]

You, or the kids could have caused the problem. Lol. Great Vid!!

[@RVwithTito]

It's the original 12+ year old gear box so you could be right 😊

[@kellyyetter1355]

My stairs are stuck up. So it's a bear to even get at any parts. My motor runs but nothing is moving. Which is strange since it appears there's no kind of clutch or neutral gear in these things. Any idea's what coukd be happening? Great video BTW. I'm sure you're probably too busy either camping or fixing something to answer. Lol

[@RVwithTito]

If I remember correctly, there are several plastic parts inside the motor. I'd remove it and take a look. If the motor runs and nothing else, it could be busted up inside. You're correct though...I've been really busy doing some electrical work in the shop. 😃

[@kellyyetter1355]

​@RVwithTito Well being a carpenter my easiest solution was to just build a set of stairs. I don't ever have to worry about the electric ones not working again 😂

[@RVwithTito]

@@kellyyetter1355 Well that's certainly an option. We carried a block to step on for about a year once before fixing the stair. When we got our 2003 Class A, the step was rusted and not in the best shape after 20 years. I just replaced the entire assembly for all brand new stuff instead of dealing with all of the components. It's so easy to replace, just 4 bolts and plug in the cable. (amzn.to/3KTyLUN) After all it is something we use multiple times every day. Good luck!

[@kellyyetter1355]

I'm really not too good with the mechanical side of things. Carpentry, I'll build whatever anyone needs. But I grabbed a circular saw blade last August and pretty much lost a lot of function in my hand so that makes things even more difficult for me. I'm attempting to try and run some seafoam in my "Not running" Jenny now. Always something right ? Lol ! Thank you for the reply and have a blessed day bud

[@RVwithTito]

@@kellyyetter1355 Gotchya. Do what you can. Right? I've got a long list of ToDos as well.

[@asherstanton4561]

That Bend looks like it might be an improvement in the overlock design. Maybe?

[@RVwithTito]

Yes. I believe so 👍

[@birminghammotorhomeman]

copper grease pins and bolts to stop rusting

[@Lolaandcassidyadventures]

Mines doing the same thing so annoying!

[@MrJacksJourney]

I called my motorhome manufacturer and was told that two companies make the steps and motors. One company in Lippert and I don't remember the other company. It will help me if I know which manufacturer made your steps.

[@optionstraderman]

These steps are made by KwiKee Products

[@jassr57]

I have the same problem in my driveway I use cardboard to lay on...

[@RVwithTito]

Yes cardboard works well. Also helps keep tiny pieces from falling into the gravel.

[@jonarmstrong3891]

I carry a couple of those large foam “puzzles piece” floor squares with me in the RV. Use them constantly every time I need to get on ground. To hitch and un-hitch, put my X-chocks on/off, put down stabilizer jacks,to lay on when under the rig, up on the roof...etc etc. They are the first thing out and the last thing packed at every stop. Great video as always.

[@DavidWhite]

Brian been there done that, and for the same reason. My motor was fine. There is a clutch mechanism in the motor body gear housing. It looks like three round nylon pieces that fit into a triangular housing. They got destroyed by my butting my fat butt on the steps before fully extended. As that motor is from a Ford motor for the passenger side window. I went to the auto parts store to buy another motor. They are a lot cheaper that way . The auto parts guy told me about the clutch and gave me the pieces to repair it. $6.00 is all it cost. The worst part of the whole job was plugging the step back in. I kept thinking what if it moves the second I plug it in, There are lots of places to get your fingers caught.

[@RVwithTito]

I did take my old motor apart and saw those. They seemed ok but good to know.

[@j.j.605]

Perhaps you can solve that squeak with some three in one RV care.

[@RVwithTito]

Perhaps. It works ok. I'm trying out some CRC lube this time. See how that goes.

[@readytorv5327]

I tapped the motor with a hammer. Steps working again.

[@RVwithTito]

Yes. That sometimes works.

[@robertcollins6170]

I think that's how I broke mine. Stepping on it just as it comes to the end. Won't do that anymore.

[@RVwithTito]

Oops. Me too. That's how we learn 😆

[@charlotte97838]

Can you put an on/off switch next to your door to shut off the step while your running in and out?

[@RVwithTito]

There is one, but the engine running overrides it.

[@41johndeere]

Problem is made in China had my motor go out a Ford Tarus window motor works

[@RVwithTito]

Yes. I've heard that too. And they are cheaper.

[@robertcollins6170]

Always wondered what you could do with so many window motors in the scrap yard?

[@anthonylawlor9130]

Actually Korea.