Entry steps not fully retracting

[FandRChambers]

The entry steps on my 2005 Sportscoach Encore are not fully retracting. Anyone had this problem before? Any suggestions on how to repair it? Thanks

[Roll]

I have a two step retracting set that failed when the shoulder bolt broke off. Dealer said not their fault but it was working fine when I dropped it off for an oil change.

Anyway I decided to do the repair myself rather than spend the $600 or $700 for a new set of steps.

These automatic folding steps are cumbersome to work on, especially when you have a bad back as I do but...... I was able to prop them up, disconnect the wiring (you don't want them rotating when you have your hands in there), and then remove the 4 bolts holding them to the chassis and lower the set for work on a bench. Not as difficult as you might think.

Parts are available (know your model number) and not overly expensive making repair worth your time.

Unless you have bumped them and twisted the frame, preventing the steps from fully retracting; your problem is likely the gear or shoulder bolt. The link is another weak spot (between the gear and steps). The motor is the most expensive but is probably not the problem.

The magnet in the screen door triggers the motor which will then either rotate the steps out or in. The motor is controlled through resistance, when it can not move the steps any farther, the electronic controller will shut the motor down.

Crawl underneath, -Keep Clear !- of the zone where the steps move and have someone open and close the door while you watch with a trouble light or flash light. You should be able to pick out the problem.

Pic shows key items. If you're interested in discussing, PM me. Glad to share my experience with these steps if it will be helpful.

Gary

[FandRChambers]

Turns out all I needed to do was lube the bar under the motor in your picture, the one that connects to the link. Working fine now. This coach apparently sat for a while so I'm working through a lot of little issues like this...thanks

[wrapperman]

Has anyone had issues with their Lippert steps braking.
Any injuries or hurts

We had the broken bolt issue and the wife fell but no serious injury
I have been contacted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration board and they would like to hear from anyone that has had a broken step and/or injuries.
Here is his contact link or you can file a complaint at the link below.

Nate Seymour
Safety Defect Investigator
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Office of Defects Investigation - Med/Heavy Duty Vehicles
1200 New Jersey Ave SE
W46-323
Washington, DC 20590
202 366 2069
202 366 1767 fax
877 536 8368 x62069 Toll Free

Class A CDL with T,N,P,S,H endorsements
Class M license
Captain, Logistics Branch, Army National Guard

www.safertruck.gov


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Sent from my iPad using Forest River Forums

[dflick]

The steps we had use 2 motors. We noticed some hesitation on the movement and it was a bit louder than normal. One motor had gone out leaving only 1 to do the job. It worked like this for about a month before we lost the second motor. I hope that may help.

[FandRChambers]

lubrication did the trick for. it has been working great ever since.