Electric Step Knocking Noise

[Rockstar70]

The electric step on my 351DS makes a loud knocking noise for a few seconds when it retracts. It seems to do it once its fully retracted as if the motor is still trying to pull it in but can't. Seems a simple adjustment is in order. Does anybody know how to fix this?

[jojo bamboo]

spray some lube on all moving parts
and check for any broken or missing bolts

[Rockstar70]

Any particular type?

[MGOBlue]

Here's the manual:
http://www.strombergcarlson.com/pdf/...epElectric.pdf

Also, I had some issues with my set too. Calling these guys is worth it. Their phone number is 231.947.8600.

Mine was installed with two loose bolts.

[Rockstar70]

Thanks. I'll take a look.

[polkatronron]

Don't lube it..it is all sealed. I had the same issuer. It is an adjustment issue or in my case a new circuit board.

[mopargilley]

Check the nuts on the ball joints and buy a spare one mine broke a few weeks ago due to the nuts being loose.

[tncruiser]

i had the same problem .they had to replace motor and control board per dlr the step has a 2 year warranty
brianj

[VinceU]

"Six months ago the entry steps started slipping and grinding on both in and out operations. I disassembled the step cam bolt shown here to the left of the black pivot bolt, it was wobbling loose. Made sure it was clean and dry and then reassembled with max torque. I then put witness marks on the bolt in silver and black to keep an eye on it. As of today everything is fine, the step maker just didn't assemble the cam bolt tight. The grinding by the way led to shear failure of the bolt which in many units had happen. The steps then would swing in and out without control.
The left picture shows the arrangement of these spherical end rod bearings. the two are coupled to drive the large rotary shaft which is the step driver."

Written awile back, still no looseness. The bolt is actually a "ball stud, bolted tight to the rotating plate. You ID it as it secures the shaft with the two universals joints. To the steps. This is a three step Lippert

[mopargilley]

Mc master carr carries the ball joints/ballstud for $6 each.

[sparks1032]

Not sure no lube might not be the best answer as i have gone through two sets of stairs in five years and great advice as to checking the torque of the bolt as one of my steps died due to it being loose. I am on mobile app and did not see any pictures posted or torque recommendations? ?? Also anyone use loctitie?

[VinceU]

With open gearing, bushings, and ball socket joints exposed to road debris, you must lube oten, flusihing lubes better than grease trapping dirt.

[copsuno]

I had an issue with the main bolt that holds the gear in place, you have to lie on back under steps and check it, it had come lose and while checking it, the bolt literally dropped out, on to my chest. This could cause noises if loose. Just a thought. Put the bolt back with lock tight and tighten the others and 14,000 miles later, all good. Good luck.

[Rockstar70]

Got it all fixed under factory warranty. Issue was the motor. They mechanic said it was probably from somebody stepping on the step while it was still moving. Brand is a Lippert by the way. Hope this helps somebody in the future.

Regards,

Jeff

[dcorn44]

I have had the same problem (three step) two time the first fix was a new motor under, warranty, that lasted six months are so and started doing the same thing, this time I had to spend $100.00 to buy a new motor haven't had any more problems with the unit.
You might want to check the bolts on the motor mine were also loose the first time also there are a lot of adjustments and stops that should be in proper place.

[Cornelius]

The motor used for the Lippert steps on the Georgetown is a Ford and Lincoln power window motor. They are available from Car Quest, Advance Auto Parts, O'Reilly, etc. for about $50. You will need to cut and reuse the electrical connector off the old Lippert step motor, as it is different from the Ford connector.

Two manufacturers available:
ACI part # 83694
Cardone part # 42-309

[dcorn44]

Thanks that would save a bundle

DonC

[johnnypal]

Same thing happened to me after about a year of use.My rv mechanic opened the step motor and replaced the plastic ball berings with steel ones.Been ok ever since.

[VinceU]

Well I've fallen victim to the dreaded sheared bolt problem. Without a doubt by examining the bolt it sawed off 80% of the diameter and broke the final tab. No one was on it when it failed and I caught the nut/stud when it fell off. Went to a local RV parts store in Lancaster county and showed them a picture of the Stromberg Carlson add owned by Lippert. They ordered and recd. in two days. Pain without it. I had witness marks on the nut and stud still visible. I hadn't noticed it turned in the past few months and it made no sounds this time, just quit! Here's some pics of the common failed area.

[370xl]

VinceU, I had the exact same failure this week while waxing the coach. Bad part was it let go when I stepped down and darn near broke my neck. Lippert price $56.00, Grainger price $28.00. You can also drill out the stud and install a grade eight bolt if you are in a jamb.