If you want to see Lippert quality just look at the posts in various forums of 5th wheel frames. I have always believed that Winnie made a good product but they have been using that bad slide out for a few years. Are you aware of any changes to the mechanism that would make you a believer? Are the current models of MH's with the Schwintek slides problem free? As for steps: Back in 08 Lippert acquired the Texas company that was making steps for some of the higher end products. AFAIK they did nothing to make that step an inferior product. What have they done with Power Gear products? Although I prefer HWH many of the power gear products( hydraulic levelers, slide outs) are a decent product. I think CW is ( or was) carrying a Chinese knock off for the Kwikee step.
Moisheh