Vacumatic step

[Robfike]

We have what I think is the original step on our '86 345. It is a Vacumatic Step by Frank Industries, Brown City, MI. Model RRI.
I would like to replace it with an electric double step. Maby a model 32 by Kwikee. Has anyone done this latley? Any help would be great.
Thanks, Rob

[lewster]

Hi Rob,

I have done a number of Kwikee replacements. They make a great quality 'standard of the industry' product. If you have a 2 step now, the Kwikee should be a direct replacement, so long as you have the proper brackets for mounting the top plate.

[Chaplain Kent]

Lew,
have you replaced the steps on an Airstream Classic with a Kwikee step? I have researched this as well as talked to several installers. Kwikee is not convinced they will work and I can not find a mechanic willing to try. Kwikee is designed for a flat sided unit ours is curved. My problem is that our step just does not extend far enough. After a lot of measurements it was determined that the Kwikee would be even worse. Since this continues to be a major problem for me I am very interested in hearing what experience you have.

[Robfike]

Lew
My step is now the single step unit. I thought the two step would be a good replacement since the first step is lower to the ground. Would any needed brackets come with the new step? It looks like my present step assy is held in place with 4 bolts.
Thanks, Rob

[cooperhawk]

I have replaced my step with a kwikee two step. It works just fine on our 345. There is some wiring that needs to be done, but it is not too difficult to do. It is a perfect fit.

[lewster]

Hi Kent,

I have not done any Kwikees on any classic A/S MoHo's. Mostly on existing units that were damaged in transit (read leaving the steps out!) or manual to automatic conversions. I can't see where it would be a problem, but I don't have a silver tube to look at! Perhaps ordering a kit with the option of returning it (Camping World) if it doesn't fit would be an option for you. If I run across a tube MoHo, I'll look closely at the mounting and let you know what I think.

Lew

Originally Posted by Chaplain Kent

Lew,
have you replaced the steps on an Airstream Classic with a Kwikee step? I have researched this as well as talked to several installers. Kwikee is not convinced they will work and I can not find a mechanic willing to try. Kwikee is designed for a flat sided unit ours is curved. My problem is that our step just does not extend far enough. After a lot of measurements it was determined that the Kwikee would be even worse. Since this continues to be a major problem for me I am very interested in hearing what experience you have.

[lewster]

Originally Posted by Robfike

Lew
My step is now the single step unit. I thought the two step would be a good replacement since the first step is lower to the ground. Would any needed brackets come with the new step? It looks like my present step assy is held in place with 4 bolts.
Thanks, Rob

Rob,

Most Kwikees are also a 4-bolt mount. Check with Cooperhawk. He seems to have done the transition and might have the first hand knowledge that you are looking for.

[balrgn]

Originally Posted by cooperhawk

I have replaced my step with a kwikee two step. It works just fine on our 345. There is some wiring that needs to be done, but it is not too difficult to do. It is a perfect fit.

Do you have any pics of the step intalled? Looking to do soemthing with the Peanuts step, original was removed for some reason, jury rig replacement..

[guy99]

On a recent trip I saw a Airstream Motorhome which was created from a non-standard unit which according to the owner had been made for some defense contractors. Originally it had two door, two generators and 54 outlets along the walls. Needless to say he made a lot of mods, including removing one of the generators.

Both doors had Kwikee 2 stair steps.