Steps for 1970 Overlander

[69Silvrbelle]

The welder comes next week to install the couple of worn out outriggers. Both sides of the step outriggers are also needing replacement. I am struggling to find the outriggers, any ideas? Every supplier I know is out of stock. Any ideas as to a non Airstream step that fits and works well? I would like to put the Airstream double step in but am not sure if it will fit and lock up while traveling. Will the double step work if I can find the outriggers? What modifications are required?
Thanks everyone!

[sgschwend]

I would let the welder cut copies and install them. I would recommend stepping up to the next thicker size metal too. It is likely they can be made for less than you could order them.

[69Silvrbelle]

Thank you!
I am not sure what to do, that's for sure. Maybe a pair of the wheel well outriggers with some reinforcement behind them for attaching steps?
I'm about to paint the frame and I need this solved before I go about new flooring and tanks.

[Bill M.]

I had a similar problem a couple of weeks ago. A piece broke out of the outrigger along the track for the steps. As you said, nobody has them in stock or seems to think they will restock. I decided to make a new groove or channel for mine. I got a 1/8' piece of steel plate and cut it to the outside shape of the outrigger. I marked the step channel on it and using a drill press and a jig saw I cut the groove. A Bosch metal bit cut it very easly. I bolted the new piece to the face of the existing outrigger using counter sunk bolt heads. It was a close fit and took some adjusting to get it all together but it now works.

I did order a wheel well outrigger and thought about cutting the groove in it. But I did not want to have to weld a whole new outrigger. It would not be a hard project to order right and left wheel well outriggers and cut the slots in them using an old one for a pattern. The metal seems to be the same thickness.

The groove has to be pretty accurate in order for the step to fold up and lock in place securely. I did not get my groove long enough at first and had to recut that end. When the steps are folded down one side is about 1/16 inch further from the trailer than the other. But it works.

[69Silvrbelle]

Thank you Bill! Now I have to make a decision. I'm right at ready to replace the floor. I want to get to it!

Trey

[Streamracer]

A few years ago, the edges wore out on the outriggers of the steps of my fathers AS. Took it to a welder that welded on the wore areas and then ground them back to where it was. Worked like new and as far as I know still is. He sold it later on. You might try Sonny at Camper Repair 205-665-2531. He and his dad have been AS parts dealers for years. Last time I was there he even had complete end caps for the narrow body units. Sells new and used parts.