Forum Discussion

DatacomGuy's avatar
DatacomGuy
Explorer
May 22, 2014

Add a larger Hand Rail?

I like a lot of the foldaway larger hand rails on the new TT's out there. My TT is new, however has one of the real small ones and isnt kid friendly.

Has anyone installed a larger one? Did you leave the smaller one in tact or what did you do with it? How did you mount the larger one?
  • Besides the larger grab-bar others have posted, Torklift has an excellent product the GlowGuide Handrail. While the product is shown on a camper, it should fit most trailers quite nicely (I put one on my trailer quite easily)

    The DW actually prefers the Glowguide
  • I always add the bigger one. I use an existing screwhole from the smaller one on the top and dab some silicone in the lower hole and screw in the existing white headed screw. No biggie and no one would notice unless you're looking for it as you can barely see it in this pic of my jayco
  • We also dislike the standard wimpy little grab handles they typically install. It's not hard to guess why they use them...

    When we ordered our latest TT, a 2014, we specifically requested that the factory NOT install any exterior grab handles (we have 2 ext. doors). We got the dealer to install two black Stromberg Carlson "soft touch" grab handles (left photo). The Strongberg Carlson ones have a really nice soft feel when you grab the handle and you won't lose grip. They are fantastic!! There is at least one other one that looks identical, made by RV Designer (right photo). The grab part of the handle is too hard IMHO, and not soft and comfortable as the SC one.

    When we installed the same handle on our first TT (with aluminum siding), I took the old stock handle off and just used RV caulk to seal the holes. No one will notice the caulk except you and it's hard to see unless you are inches away. I also re-installed the original handle on the interior side of the door as an extra assist device (DW was suffering severe vertigo at the time). Installing one can be a bit tricky depending on how wide the stud is beside your door opening. You may have to notch the handle slightly where it attaches to the siding so that it slightly overlaps the door trim to allow the mounting screws to adequately sink into the wood or aluminum stud. You may also be able to install the screws at a small angle. A little clear RV caulk along the top and sides of the handle where it attaches to the siding will help keep water out.

    This is one upgrade I highly recommend and I guarantee you'll like it (no refunds tho.)

    I really don't like the fold-away handrail type. To me they are ergonomically incorrect and you are forced to swing your arm around as you pull yourself into your unit. I've tried them at RV shows and would never use one, but that's just me.

  • Didn't think I'd care for ours on the move to the TT....was plenty happy with the small one on the HTT. Go for the large one! Makes life better for everyone, especially if you have more than 2 steps.
  • Leave the old one on are you will have holes to patch, should be a stud in the same place as the old one, next to the door.