Forum Discussion
thedavidzoo
Nov 01, 2020Explorer II
We have been trying to come up with a better solution to our steps also. We have a large overhang and a side entry. Our standard fold out 3-step contraption hangs too low and seriously cuts into our offroad clearance. They have now been disassembled after becoming non-functional. Otherwise, we liked the wide-width, simplicity of operation, quick and one-handed. We make frequent stops along the road. There was no ground support, but the slight wobble didn't really bother us or our dog.
So, we really liked this basic step idea which seems to be on the vast majority of european overland vehicles.
or this https://www.pinterest.com/pin/250160954281528407/
Then, here is the Victory Step
https://www.etrailer.com/RV-and-Camper-Steps/Lippert-Components/LC726895.html
Stores flat (4-5") and "scissors" open, but not like Brophy or Torklift. Very pricey though. We thought about fabricating a L- or C-channel rail system or box under our rear overhang. The step would store flat, we could pull it out (drawer style), lower it, fold out and lock it in place with small modification, have adjustable feet for uneven terrain. Lift and shove the steps back under. Theoretically easy to do.
We also thought about fabricating such steps from scratch, perhaps reusing our old treads and a bunch of aluminum rails, bolts, etc., but weren't quite ready for that level of dedication.
For much less money, various DIY versions using stripped down Little Giant step ladders are floating around. We almost went this route, again stored flat underneath to be pulled out, but didn't like the narrow 14" step width.
Example https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4hd8lxjPZA
So, we have now ordered the cheaper Torklift Glowsteps with 4-steps which will stow inside our door. We will modify the area where our current step box is with some attachement points. Unfortunately, this in not really ideal either as it adds several steps to the whole deployment and securing process. We just haven't found the optimal solution without serious $$ or serious aluminum fabrication.
You have us a bit worried about the Torklift system now. We figure if we don't like them we will resell and go with our original pullout idea somehow.
Anyway, just thought since you have an overhang, perhaps you could mount one of the flat-folding steps underneath drawer-style, maybe with an integrated platform, pull out and enter parallel to the back of the camper instead of perpendicular.
Don't know if this helps you at all....
We looked at the Moryde steps also, but I don't like the idea of dumping all the water and dirt from your treads into your camper. People seem to not be too happy with them.
So, we really liked this basic step idea which seems to be on the vast majority of european overland vehicles.
or this https://www.pinterest.com/pin/250160954281528407/
Then, here is the Victory Step
https://www.etrailer.com/RV-and-Camper-Steps/Lippert-Components/LC726895.html
Stores flat (4-5") and "scissors" open, but not like Brophy or Torklift. Very pricey though. We thought about fabricating a L- or C-channel rail system or box under our rear overhang. The step would store flat, we could pull it out (drawer style), lower it, fold out and lock it in place with small modification, have adjustable feet for uneven terrain. Lift and shove the steps back under. Theoretically easy to do.
We also thought about fabricating such steps from scratch, perhaps reusing our old treads and a bunch of aluminum rails, bolts, etc., but weren't quite ready for that level of dedication.
For much less money, various DIY versions using stripped down Little Giant step ladders are floating around. We almost went this route, again stored flat underneath to be pulled out, but didn't like the narrow 14" step width.
Example https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4hd8lxjPZA
So, we have now ordered the cheaper Torklift Glowsteps with 4-steps which will stow inside our door. We will modify the area where our current step box is with some attachement points. Unfortunately, this in not really ideal either as it adds several steps to the whole deployment and securing process. We just haven't found the optimal solution without serious $$ or serious aluminum fabrication.
You have us a bit worried about the Torklift system now. We figure if we don't like them we will resell and go with our original pullout idea somehow.
Anyway, just thought since you have an overhang, perhaps you could mount one of the flat-folding steps underneath drawer-style, maybe with an integrated platform, pull out and enter parallel to the back of the camper instead of perpendicular.
Don't know if this helps you at all....
We looked at the Moryde steps also, but I don't like the idea of dumping all the water and dirt from your treads into your camper. People seem to not be too happy with them.
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