Step Won't Stay Stowed - How to Fix?

[Sugarfoot]

I've developed a problem with my single door step falling during travel. Forum searches hasn't turned up any help for an older coach like mine.

This is the original entrace step on a 1960. It lowers fairly easily if you say the magic words and know the right points to push and pull. It raises to stow properly and seems secure. But during travel it apparently dislodges and drops. I don't see anything rusted out. I'm guessing friction keeps it in place but I don't want to go messing with it before consulting the vintage gurus here first. Does anyone know what mechanism keeps the step stowed or have any suggestions for remedy?

[jgouras]

pictures of the mechanism would also be great.

[Sugarfoot]

You're right. I was stupid and didn't get any today. I can tell you that two arc-shaped arms are attached on each side of the step. They ride in similar shaped cut-outs in the outriggers on each side of the door. I'll get pics tomorrow.

[markdoane]

Sugar,

There should be a clip just under the handlatch. The clip may be rusted, bent, or missing.

If the clip is missing, have a new one welded on. If the clip is there, you may need to bend it a little more upward so that it catches the lip of the step. This may make it more difficult to pull the hand latch out in order for the clip to release the step, but it will be more secure.

You might need to drill a hole and insert a safety pin if bending the clip doesn't work.

Here is a picture of the clip.

[Sugarfoot]

Mark, you're awesome! That's my step exactly. I'll check the clip tomorrow. It could be missing, I don't recall feeling or seeing it when I looked earlier. THANKS!

[r&kweber]

As usual, Mark shows up with the perfect photos!

That is just how my step looks and would not stay up without that clip.

My step goes up and down correctly and is even sporting a shiny new coat of paint. It's problem is that the welds that hold it to the frame have come loose. I've bolted it to the subfloor, but that is likely a patch until I remove the soft plywood someday.

[Sugarfoot]

Originally Posted by markdoane

There should be a clip just under the handlatch. The clip may be rusted, bent, or missing . . . .

Mark, that was it. I guess I was looking for something much more complicated. This clip is there but was overlooked. Like I said earlier, I was stupid yesterday. A little tweaking towards a more functional position and all is well. Thanks again.