Aluminum step problem

[ibosket]

In mid-December 2020 we relocated from Oregon to Wisconsin, traveling through winter driving conditions. Although it was washed, our 2017 FC 23FB sat unused over the winter. The fold out step release from under the trailer, but when I tried to fold out the lower step it is 'corroded' in place, I think due to ice-melt and sand enroute. I've used a combination of a rubber mallet, WD-40, and silicon to finally unfold completely. However the hinge points are still semi-frozen. It looks like the way to fix this is to take the hinges apart, but I'm not sure what procedure to use. Does anyone have experience with this or can recommend a site that explains this? Thank you.

[GCinSC2]

Ibosket,

I’m looking at my aluminum steps right now.

Not sure I’d take it completely apart to free it up.

A good set of Allen wrenches, favorite corrosion spray. PB Blaster, Kroil etc.

Loosen one fastener at a time. Flush crud out move to opposite side and repeat. Working one joint at a time. Then consider getting a joint completely apart and clean real good.

Pics first of how it was.

This is some custom hardware Allen wrench on both ends in some places.

Patience.

Gary