Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Repair or Replace RV Electric Steps?

We are in the process of updating our Holiday Rambler and my outside automatic steps need new bushings. They are SCS/Frigette steps. I've been told that a dealer will want to replace the steps. If so what brand do you recommend? Do you think I need to replace them? Jean K., (Madison, WI)

Jean, it would be difficult for me to condemn your automatic steps without taking some electrical measurements and performing some diagnostics, but there have been numerous, publicly documented issues with the SCS/Frigette electric steps. From poor design to broken bolts to failed modules. Parts are still available, so it’s doubtful it will be absolutely necessary to replace the entire unit. But from the research I’ve done, and the fact that you are “updating” your HR, I’d see what the repair center had to say (it might be a quick fix), then make a decision whether to repair or replace. Personally, I’ve been a fan of Kwikee products for a number of years. If the decision is to fully replace the entire assembly, I’d opt for Kwikee.