Question Electric Steps Stopped Working

[BigRig]

Any tips on trouble shooting the electric steps on our 2019 Newmar Ventana LE 4037? They were working this morning then not.
Thanks

 

[Chuggs]

I usually start at the fuse...in the cord reel bay. And never find it blown. Then replace the motor. Seems to work everytime. It's basically a windshield wiper motor...the controller controls the polarity of the power to the motor and cuts out at a preset amperage (stop limit). The thing is...these things are not well sealed and get grime in the plastic spiral gear inside. If someone steps on the step when it hasn't reach full up or full down it will crack the gear, and of course possible the motor does fail.

 

[BigRig]

I usually start at the fuse...in the cord reel bay. And never find it blown. Then replace the motor. Seems to work everytime. It's basically a windshield wiper motor...the controller controls the polarity of the power to the motor and cuts out at a preset amperage (stop limit). The thing is...these things are not well sealed and get grime in the plastic spiral gear inside. If someone steps on the step when it hasn't reach full up or full down it will crack the gear, and of course possible the motor does fail.

 

[BigRig]

Thanks Charlie!!
Sounds like this has happen to you more than once. Where did you get the replacement motor. I am pretty sure I have seen the electric step "owner or install manual" in my Newmar paperwork. Let me look and see the manufacturer.

 

[Richpatty]

I have also had the controller die...which will also cause the steps to flake out. It is the plastic black block with wires hanging out of it. It is also under the steps.

 

[Chuggs]

Thanks Charlie!!
Sounds like this has happen to you more than once. Where did you get the replacement motor. I am pretty sure I have seen the electric step "owner or install manual" in my Newmar paperwork. Let me look and see the manufacturer.

AM Equipment, they have a few different ones, torque and bolt size are the main differences. I’ll update post w/part no.

I keep a spare motor and controller in the coach. The other handy items are oasis pumps, and water pump controller…if your coach is equipped with one. Twice, I have had the step motor stop working.

 

[BigRig]

AM Equipment, they have a few different ones, torque and bolt size are the main differences. I’ll update post w/part no.

I keep a spare motor and controller in the coach. The other handy items are oasis pumps, and water pump controller…if your coach is equipped with one. Twice, I have had the step motor stop working.

Thanks so much! I did find the Electric Steps Owner's Manual. The manufacturer is Kwikee

 

[BigRig]

Charlie,
Attached are the first two pages of the Kwikee Owner's Manual. The part number I am coming up with is 1101428. I found it on the AM Equipment site. It's the 214 Series and available with several options. The option with the part number comes with mounting screws and without the pinion gear.
Below is a link to the AM Equipment parts page.

214 Series DC Gear Motor - AM Equipment

Original equipment replacements for LCI / Kwikee®

www.amequipment.com

Curious if you ordered without the pinion and reused the pinion from existing motor. Kind of seem like that might be a bad idea. Especially if the pinion gear is messed up.
Actually, looking at the gear housing it appears the motor's shaft might just slip into a "receiver."
Any insight is appreciated.
Thanks,

 

[Chuggs]

Here’s my spare.

Yes…Kwikee is the branding on the step product. They source motors from other mfg. You will find other mfg. making the same spec motor cheaper on Amazonm for example. The bolt size, shaft, and torque are important.

214 Series DC Gear Motor - AM Equipment

Original equipment replacements for LCI / Kwikee®

www.amequipment.com

If your pinion gear is not damaged…then you can order without…or if you choose the model that includes it. They have the LCI number for cross reference which I believe is Lippert Components.

Check yours has the 2-pin connector like this. You can buy a pigtail if yours is different…but yours should be the same.

 

[Chuggs]

Charlie,
Attached are the first two pages of the Kwikee Owner's Manual. The part number I am coming up with is 1101428. I found it on the AM Equipment site. It's the 214 Series and available with several options. The option with the part number comes with mounting screws and without the pinion gear.
Below is a link to the AM Equipment parts page.

214 Series DC Gear Motor - AM Equipment

Original equipment replacements for LCI / Kwikee®

www.amequipment.com

Curious if you ordered without the pinion and reused the pinion from existing motor. Kind of seem like that might be a bad idea. Especially if the pinion gear is messed up.
Actually, looking at the gear housing it appears the motor's shaft might just slip into a "receiver."
Any insight is appreciated.
Thanks,

Opps I added a post without first seeing you had tracked it down.

Yes, I reused my pinion gear. Ring pliers takes the retaining ring off…and the pinion can be transferred easily. Or you could opt for the full kit. It’s actually an easy swap….

 

[BigRig]

I think our "replies" crossed in cyberspace!

The troubleshooting instructions for testing the motor refer to a two-way connector between the motor and control unit, so makes sense the 2-pin connection you mentioned is what I have. I am at work, but will check it out when I get home.
Based on what I am reading, the controller you also mentioned, and a magnetic door switch could also be the culprit.

Thanks for the help!