Kwikee step switch

[Boom Sounds]

Hi all,

My steps have never really worked properly e.g. going in and out. No they have given up the ghost entirely. They are on an Airstream 1991 250 classic.
When I got the coach it had the Kwikee double steps with the 9513 orange control box, which are stock and all original. I'm keen to understand how the step switch works because I am unsure on whether the switch is stock or a replacement by the previous owner. I intherited the coach manual which included the Kwikee manual and a short manual on the step switch. The step switch was not a Kwikee product, but an A&E switch made by Dometic (see picture). This switch (which I have now removed) had six terminals, several of which were damaged and not all give wires were connected to it. The replacement switch from Kwikee only has two terminals and a simple on/off with no light. Can anyone tell me what step switch they have on their coach and the make/model which works with that age coach e.g. 1989-1993? The A&E switches are redundant and you can't get them anymore.I'm struggling to understand how a switch with two terminals would work because I assume it is wired to the 12v/dash to enable it to close should you accidently drive off. Anyone got any suggestions on this? thanks!

[Isuzusweet]

You need to PM Shepherd57 (John) as he just finished putting steps into his moho and knows all about open switches, closed switches and headaches caused by both.

Cheers
Tony

[Tap]

Originally Posted by Boom Sounds

Hi all,

My steps have never really worked properly e.g. going in and out. No they have given up the ghost entirely. They are on an Airstream 1991 250 classic.
When I got the coach it had the Kwikee double steps with the 9513 orange control box, which are stock and all original. I'm keen to understand how the step switch works because I am unsure on whether the switch is stock or a replacement by the previous owner. I intherited the coach manual which included the Kwikee manual and a short manual on the step switch. The step switch was not a Kwikee product, but an A&E switch made by Dometic (see picture). This switch (which I have now removed) had six terminals, several of which were damaged and not all give wires were connected to it. The replacement switch from Kwikee only has two terminals and a simple on/off with no light. Can anyone tell me what step switch they have on their coach and the make/model which works with that age coach e.g. 1989-1993? The A&E switches are redundant and you can't get them anymore.I'm struggling to understand how a switch with two terminals would work because I assume it is wired to the 12v/dash to enable it to close should you accidently drive off. Anyone got any suggestions on this? thanks!

Hi, I have the same problem. In the time that I've owned my 280, the steps have never retracted. Not even when the door is closed or even when I'm driving (!)

I have also tried to force them in, but no luck.

I'm guessing it might be an issue with the switch for me as well.

But I need to fix it very soon, as I'm well aware that I should not be driving around with the steps sticking out.

[Tap]

[Boom Sounds]

If your steps are Kwikee, they have some pretty good fault finding on their site. If you drill out and replace the plunger switch in the door, you should be able to short the on off door switch to prove if that is defective. If not, get under the steps (be very careful), disconnect battery where needed and follow the Kwikee test procedures. Faulty motor can be replaced by Dorman motor (easy fix just google it). Other than that, it's the control board (circa $150) or 12v supply or grounds. Good luck.


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[Boom Sounds]

Originally Posted by Isuzusweet

You need to PM Shepherd57 (John) as he just finished putting steps into his moho and knows all about open switches, closed switches and headaches caused by both.



Cheers

Tony

Thanks Tony!


Sent from my iPhone using Airstream Forums

[bkahler]

Originally Posted by Tap

Attachment 264812

Tap, your steps are most likely vacuum actuated. Check the vacuum hose from the back of the engine to the steps and also check to see if the vent hose on the step actuator is plugged. Mud daubers like to fill the end of the hoses with mud.

There is also a switch in the forward side of the door frame that supplies 12 vdc to the actuator control that you might need to check.

[Boom Sounds]

Thanks Brad, mine is all electric (I think)


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[Tap]

Originally Posted by bkahler

Tap, your steps are most likely vacuum actuated. Check the vacuum hose from the back of the engine to the steps and also check to see if the vent hose on the step actuator is plugged. Mud daubers like to fill the end of the hoses with mud.



There is also a switch in the forward side of the door frame that supplies 12 vdc to the actuator control that you might need to check.

Thanks bkahler!