Step Cover Problem

[Karl Welhart]

My step cover will close fine but will not retract.  Can anyone suggest a place to start looking to fix this problem?

[Edward Buker]

Karl,

In the electrical bay there is a three pipe solenoid air valve with some adjustment screws that set the speed of travel in each direction. Look for some plastic air hose and a set of wires going into a unit. You could try adjusting the bleed screws to see what happens. I have not had to adjust mine so I cannot give you any more detail. If this is a friction issue there are wax sticks used for saw blades and the like that may help in coating the edge of the slide surfaces.

later Ed

[George H. Wall]

Karl, I have had an  air dryer disinegrate in usage, since then after numerous air blowouts of the system, I still get problems with my step and my horn. You might try unhooking the air line
 in the electrical bay and building the air pressure up to 30-35 lbs to blow out these lines, if they might be affected by "trash". I still have to do this after each trip. Henry

[Karl Welhart]

Thanks for all the comments and suggestions.  I can make the step work when the air pressure is at the max level.  However, the retract motion does not work when the air pressure gets below 90#s of pressure.  Either, I have never tried to retract the step cover at this low of pressure or something is keeping it from opening.  I will try to adjust per Ed's recommendation and see if that makes any difference.

[Joel Ashley]

This is for a Monterey, so heed Ed's locating instructions.  But this description from my Monterey manual may prove helpful.

-Joel

[Karl Welhart]

Joel,

My air solenoid is very different than the one in your diagram.  I see some adjusting screws in the one on my coach, but not sure which one is for closing or opening.
  
Thanks for sending the diagram.

[George H. Wall]

Karl, Joel's system is completely different from ours. I have the EXACT same 2002 Patriot as you do. The 2 adjusting screws in the lower electrical bay adjust the amount of air flow you get to the step, one for extension and one for retraction. I do not remember which is which, but with your air pressure up, adjust each, one at a try, and I believe by increasing the airflow for retraction it will solve your problem. If not refer to my previous post.  HENRY

[Karl Welhart]

Henry,

Thanks, I did find the adjusting screws in my electrical bay.  Will work on it in the next couple of days.  More pressing problem with my IDS leveling system.