Posted 2011-09-22 9:34 AM (#137768) Subject: Source For Step
Member
Posts: 28 Location: Pennsylvania
Any suggestions where I can purchase a step to have mounted under my trailer for entry into / out of LQ door? I want one that slides in and latches during traveling. My dealer quoted me over $350.00. I would like to spend much less than that. Used would be fine. My trailer is aluminum. Thanks!
Posted 2011-09-22 10:04 AM (#137769 - in reply to #137768) Subject: RE: Source For Step
Expert
Posts: 5870 Location: western PA
Most accessory, after market steps are made of steel, which develop problems when bolted to an aluminum framework. Many after market aluminum steps are welded to the aluminum frames and end up costing the amount you indicated.
An alternative is a plastic removeable step that can be moved for various duties, or placed just in front of the door. Many styles are available in single or multiple steps, depending on the height you need. Most typically can be purchased for nominal amounts. Big box stores, hardware, WalMarts all sell these units. Additionally, many trailer suppliers offer folding units such as the last one on this page:
Posted 2011-09-22 10:48 AM (#137775 - in reply to #137769) Subject: RE: Source For Step
Member
Posts: 28 Location: Pennsylvania
Thanks Gard. If I end up going with a portable step, I would prefer the one you recommended as it folds up to save space. NICE! Previously I was only aware of the bulky, one piece "helper" steps. However I would like something that is permanently attached.
Posted 2011-09-22 10:52 AM (#137776 - in reply to #137768) Subject: RE: Source For Step
Member
Posts: 17
Location: grantville pa
We have the pull out type of step you are looking for and I don't like it. It was always hard to pull out and push in. We tried graphite to lube it and it didn't help. Last year I cut a corner and ran over a dirt bank - now the thing is stuck solid and won't budge. We wanted to replace it with the folding step type in the picture and purchased a two step plastic step stool to use until then. Well - the step is the perfect height, sits on the floor right inside the door when not in use, doubles as a mounting block if needed, and cost about $10 at Home Depot. We will probably never replace the step on the trailer, the plastic step works just fine- why spend the money... I also have a friend that uses her two step mounting block and that works for them.
Posted 2011-09-22 11:20 AM (#137777 - in reply to #137768) Subject: RE: Source For Step
Extreme Veteran
Posts: 399 Location: Ottawa, Illinois 61350
Anytime I have seen a pull out step mounted below a 7' wide trailer with running boards, it usually has a ground clearance issue. Our dealership has replaced several of them that have gotten snagged on something due to being to close to the ground. Stay with either a flip down that hinges on the running board and flips up out of the way when not in use or with the plastic type like already mentioned in this thread.
Posted 2011-09-22 11:56 AM (#137779 - in reply to #137768) Subject: RE: Source For Step
Member
Posts: 28 Location: Pennsylvania
Thanks for all the great suggestions everyone! Lots to think about here. I wanted a permanently mounted step in fear that a non-mounted step might kick out from underneath me - especially if I didn't step firmly in the middle of it. Never thought about the clearance issue. I will give this all some thought before making my decision. The web site Gard offered has lots of great stuff!