All Kwikee steps have a last out feature. That means regardless of Ignition or the Step On/Off switch(old control. box or newer), the steps will extend if the door is opened. Now, the OP, Are you stating when you state(EVERYTHING OFF) that you have both the Chassis and Coach batteries turned OFF? If so, some OEM's, wire the steps to the Coach and some to the chassis. CHASSIS is where steps are supposed to be connected. But, if the steps are retracted and you have turned off all battery power, the steps will not extend. IF you still have battery power the steps should extend per the Last out feature. Regardless of the interior On/Off switches. Doug