Step problem--bolt fell out--inaccessible

Kistler · 08-22-2003, 02:28 PM

Have any of you had the problem of the step losing a bolt that keeps it in usable position?

The bolt on the right side of the step (as you face the door going in) fell out. The bolt is apparently screwed in from the outside; the enclosed bottom makes it impossible to get to. I think the step mechanism has threads/is threaded so the bolt must be screw-like......

How did you fix this problem?

JPAIRSTREAM · 08-22-2003, 03:38 PM

You can cut a small hole in the underbelly just enough to do a repair.

apple 1 · 08-23-2003, 08:24 AM

Do not drill a hole in the bottom! Open the step which is difficult when this bolt falls off or starts to loosen up, open the second step, now with Allen wrenchs remove the Allen cap screws which hold the second step to the main step. Now you will see Allen screws on the side arm to the main step, remove these screws from both sides and the step will come off the side arms. You will be able to remove the side arm by sliding it out and turning it to remove it from the slot the step side arm slides in. Now with luck you can reach in through the slot and recover the special screw with a large shoulder which mounts in the arm and slides in the slot. If you can't find the special screw or get it out the only place to get this screw is from an Airstream Dealer. These screws do tend to loosen up so I suggest you use Locktite on the threads before reinstalling. Now just reverse the above to reinstall the steps.

JIm

Kistler · 08-23-2003, 11:24 AM

Thank you Jim, I have printed your directions in case I have to do this job myself. Tuesday I am taking the tt to Dillons in Apache Junction and they are supposed to fix the step AND give me an estimate on body work.

I backed into a post.

I really don't wish any unnecessary holes anywhere; I will watch them and see what they (the dealer) is doing and if they aren't doing it right I'll give them advice which will cost me a lot.

Kistler

apple 1 · 08-24-2003, 01:07 PM

Kistler,
I am sure they have seen this before as I first had the problem on my 1981 A/S and then again on my 96 when it was about 4 years old.

Jim