Forum Discussion

TC_Z's avatar
TC_Z
Explorer
Jan 13, 2021

Bolts to Replace Retractable Steps

Hi, a weld has broken on my retractable steps and I need to replace. The steps appear to be attached to the MH frame with 4 large bolts. The heads of the bolts are underneath the 1st step tread of the MH. The nuts are on the bottom. I try to pry the step tread up to reveal the bolts but it is glued down. Has anyone had to do this? I am hoping that the bolts were welded in place so I don't have to access the heads. Any help would be appreciated.

We have a 2007 Winn Voyage 38J, 8.1L gas engine

Thanks
Class A

5 Replies

  • Dutch_12078's avatar
    Dutch_12078
    Explorer III
    Jan 15, 2021
    On a previous motorhome, I replaced the steps after spraying the bolts/nuts with PB Blaster and letting it sit overnight similar to what Doug described. Three of the nuts came off quite easily, but the last one was determined to exhaust my complete vocabulary of swear words. I finally got it apart by grinding off the last 3/8" of the threads and clamping the bolt with a pair of Vise-Grips while turning the nut.
  • dougrainer's avatar
    dougrainer
    Nomad
    Jan 14, 2021
    Spray Liquid Wrench on the exposed bolts/nuts and let sit for 24 hours. The 4 nuts should then spin off easily without causing the Carriage bolts to spin in the wood below the rubber mat. Doug
  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    Jan 13, 2021
    They are carraige bolts and yes I had to lift the step rubber to get at 'em NOt an easy job but I got er. done

    The replacement used hex head bolts and BIG washers.
  • Rick_Jay's avatar
    Rick_Jay
    Explorer II
    Jan 13, 2021
    TC&Z,

    I can't give you the answers you seek for your particular rig. The one thing I CAN tell you is to make sure the fuse is pulled for the step motor circuit and disconnect the motor power wire(s). I have heard that the stair scissor mechanism can sever fingers caught in between the bars.

    It's very tempting when working on the steps to unknowingly put your hand or arm in harm's way while attempting to get into a better position. Make sure the circuit is completely dead.

    Be safe & good luck,

    ~Rick
  • enblethen's avatar
    enblethen
    Nomad
    Jan 13, 2021
    They are probably Carriage bolts. Will need to pull up step covering. Square portion of carriage bolts are spinning in wood.
    Another way is to cut a slot in end of bolt for screw driver to keep from spinning.

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