Extreme Makeover – Scissor step edition: the only way to fix slanting RV steps

Steve Rankin of Sequim, Washington encountered an issue with the step system on his Bigfoot truck camper. To fix the severely slanting steps, he turned to the only solution: Torklift International GlowStep scissor step system.


Before: Poor fitting RV scissor step       |   After: Torklift International GlowSteps

-- BEFORE --

What could be worse than trying to maneuver uneven scissor steps? The positioning of these steps are a serious headache and most likely lead to injury. It’s ideal to aim for a step configuration that is parallel to the ground. In the real world, depending on the terrain it’s often a close approximation. In this case, the middle of the steps is level, the upper step is slanting considerably downward and the bottom is angled upward.

There are several concerns with the ‘Before’ scissor step system shown on the left side of the image.

1) Too few steps. The RV steps are not sufficient to meet the height of the camper, which is 49 inches from ground level.
2) Lack of strength. The steps sag because they are single hinged and unable to provide proper stability.
3) Something’s not right. According to public forum discussion, there is speculation that the bolts need adjustment or possibly are misaligned.

How is it possible to fix scissor steps that refuse to lay parallel to the ground? Instead of attempting to adjust weak scissor steps, consider Torklift International GlowSteps.

-- AFTER --

From looking at the photo comparison above, it’s no surprise that the two sets of camper steps differ in quality and function.

“The GlowSteps are perfect - rock solid steady and level,” Rankin wrote on RV.Net.

Torklift International GlowSteps provide a significant upgrade in more ways than one. How do Torklift scissor steps outperform the previous set of RV steps?

1) Strength in numbers. The camper above is better suited with a six-step system rather than five steps. Torklift RV scissor steps range from two to six steps. By comparing the measurement of the ideal mounting area on the camper to the ground, our application chart shows exactly how many steps the application requires and there is no need to play a guessing game.

The GlowSteps can easily adjust to add or subtract steps. It takes minutes to install the Add-a-Step to an existing GlowStep scissor step system for a camper or RV. As an ideal option that fits to just about any application, the GlowStep applies to truck campers, towables and other RV configurations.

2) Smart design. The Torklift International scissor steps are manufactured with strength and quality in mind. The design allows for high capacity as it uses double hinges, reinforcing the steps allowing for maximum sturdiness. The double bars also prevent any twisting or warping of the steps when under load.

Torklift GlowSteps double hinge design versus 
single hinge design of other step systems

GlowGuide Handrail

With capability of capacities up to 375 pounds, add the GlowGuide Handrail component for even more stability. The GlowGuide Handrail paired with GlowSteps increase capacities up to 25 pounds.

3) Quality materials. Made from aircraft grade aluminum and stainless steel hardware, the GlowSteps are capable of enduring tough weather conditions and last a lifetime. Using professional grade materials also prevent the RV steps from binding. The lightweight feature of aluminum makes storing and deploying simple.

GlowSteps are made from aluminum and stainless steel

Torklift International uses a hinge design unlike any other in the industry. Bushings are used on each side of every hinge point on the steps. Assembled carefully by hand and adjusted to precise torque maximizes smooth action and ease of use. The bushings act as a bearing surface that can handle significant tension without over-stiffening the step configuration. The unique bushing design also prevents step hinges from coming loose over time. As the only step on the market with this feature, GlowStep scissor steps guarantee longevity, durability and quality.

4) Walk toward the light. Can you imagine trying to climb up the previous scissor steps in the darkness? Not only would the experience be quite scary, you would surely risk injury.

The GlowSteps are equipped with glow tape to light the steps in darkness. With only five minutes of light exposure, the RV scissor steps have a long-lasting glow for up to ten hours. The glowing feature makes this scissor step system extremely safe to use.

In conclusion, the solution to correcting Rankin’s original uneven scissor steps was switching to the Torklift GlowStep application. By adding an additional step and using a double-hinged design, the steps align perfectly to the RV application and demonstrate increased strength.

Torklift International GlowSteps are the ultimate RV scissor step system that features a variety of components to meet your needs of building the safest and most effective entry/exit path to your RV. Click here for more information on Torklift International GlowStep Series.