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Topic: Misbehaving step (Read 402 times) previous topic - next topic

Misbehaving step

Yesterday we heard some occasional banging, but just assumed it was the TV trays bumping against the wall or something similar. Today, though, it got worse. Jo Ann tried to locate it while I was driving (I know, not a good idea) and succeeded. She saw the step opening and closing as we were going down the road!

I'm assuming that air pressure is used to open and close the step since I see two cylinders with two air lines each in the step compartment. Since the step opens when the door opens (if the engine is running and air pressure is up) there has to be a switch to control that. I see what looks like a switch in the door jamb area, but trying to operate it by hand doesn't seem to have any effect (step doesn't close when switch is pushed). Might that switch be defective?

Then, too, something has to be connected to the ignition switch to tell the step whether the engine is on or not. Might there be a loose connection there?

What should I be checking?

Re: Misbehaving step

Reply #1 –
David, The switch in the door jamb is magnetic.  Half of it may have fallen off or is misaligned.  Take any magnet and place it close to it and with the ignition switch on the step should close.
Gary B

Re: Misbehaving step

Reply #2 –
Thanks, Gary. I took a magnet out just now and found out that the switch is a mechanical one. The problem is that is makes/breaks with very little pressure from the closed door. Over the years the head of the switch has worn a hole in the door gasket. It looks like I can glue a washer or something behind the gasket to help the switch make a better decision on open or closed. Don't know why the switch wouldn't operate the step earlier today, though.

Re: Misbehaving step

Reply #3 –
David, A washer sounds like a plan.
Gary B
 

Re: Misbehaving step

Reply #4 –
Wow!
Saviour those nickel cost repairs and no grease under the finger nails, black and blue marks or sore body part repairs.
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