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Bob_Vaughn's avatar
Bob_Vaughn
Explorer
Mar 29, 2016

Telescoping ladders

This weekend we had a bad storm and I had to climb up on the roof using the ladder on the back of my 5th wheel. I just felt like it was going to give way any minute plus getting back on to it to come down was nerve racking. I am thinking of getting one of those telescoping ones but aside from the price I wonder if there is any danger of it collapsing when climbing it?? I have 2 of the folding ones and they are a pita to store and open and close....
Seeking Advice

28 Replies

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  • ccxnola's avatar
    ccxnola
    Explorer
    Mar 29, 2016
    nma33,
    Buy a solid well-built make - NOT a cheap item!!!
    (You usually get what you paid for.)
    Amazon and eBay can be good - just be sure of what you purchase!
    Oh - and Lowes and Home Depot stock some models if you wish to pay retail.
  • SCVJeff's avatar
    SCVJeff
    Explorer
    Mar 29, 2016
    Crazy Ray wrote:
    2X with Mr Wizard. I've had mine 10 years.
    me too..

    When collapsing, plan your moves carefully and look at your fingers EVERY TIME you collapse another section. It's amazing how those suckers will wander around when you're not looking.
  • nma33's avatar
    nma33
    Explorer
    Mar 29, 2016
    Where is the best place to purchase a collapsing latter? I am in need of one also, MY MH doesn't have a latter built in/on, Guess that's a good thing!
  • valhalla360's avatar
    valhalla360
    Navigator
    Mar 29, 2016
    Ditto, easy to store and no I don't trust the ladders bolted to the back.

    As others have said, when collapsing it, do watch your fingers.
  • Ava's avatar
    Ava
    Explorer
    Mar 29, 2016
    We carry one on the Firetruck to use inside a home to access the attic. Again practice closing it without pinching a finger.
  • MrWizard's avatar
    MrWizard
    Moderator
    Mar 29, 2016
    I love mine... Got it 4 years ago, it's great, locks up tight.. Safe
    No problems
  • ccxnola's avatar
    ccxnola
    Explorer
    Mar 29, 2016
    Bob,
    I removed the flimsy ladder on the back of my rig (filled holes and repainted as well).

    I purchased a Telesteps ladder and it is great! Locks up good when extending, but be careful cause it will crush a finger that gets in the way when collapsing. Oh - and be sure you get the correct one you need - their model number is actually about 4.5 feet more than the highest step! (i.e. if you want to get on a 12 foot roof, you need a 1600 ladder.)

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