The Lippert Solid Step is the perfect convenient upgrade for campers with floating manual RV steps. It makes it easier and safer to get in and out of your camper. Many RVers overlook this simple improvement. However, many camping injuries can result from a lack of a solid, durable platform to step on when climbing in and out of your camper. Let’s learn how the Lippert Solid Steps can make your RV experience safer.
Benefits of the Lippert Solid Step
Photos by Lippert
Upgrading to a Lippert Solid Step makes it easier to enjoy safer, more comfortable camping. New and experienced RVers can complete this DIY RV installation in just a few hours. The basic Lippert Solid Step installation procedure is the same for all RV step configurations. When complete, you’ll have an upgraded entry platform that makes you safer and inspires confidence in getting in and out of your camper.
The Lippert Solid Step is available in double, triple, and quad-step configurations. All steps are manufactured with aluminum anti-slip treads. The tread on the uppermost step gives you an extra-large 13” platform to step onto when exiting your RV, and all other steps measure 8” wide.
Here are a few more important benefits of the Lippert Components Solid Step:
- Compatible with a wide range of ride heights
- Conveniently folds into the RV doorway when not in use
- Recessed feet help prevent tripping hazards
- Steps easily fold into your entry doorway and securely lock in place
- Includes kickplate that prevents damage to your RV skirt
- Adjustable legs adapt to uneven surfaces for added stability
- Mounting fasteners are provided for wood or laminate floor installation
- 400-lb. maximum weight capacity
Shop the Solid Step by Lippert Components in the following configurations:
The above steps are compatible with RV entry doors from 25” to 28.9” wide. Explore all RV steps using the link below to find compatible Lippert Solid Steps for wider RV doors.
Lippert Solid Step Installation
Here are the tools you’ll need for this Lippert Solid Step installation:
- Power drill
- Phillips bit
- 5/32” drill bit (for wood subfloor)
- 13/64” drill bit (for laminate subfloor)
- 10mm socket
- 7/16” socket
- Socket wrench
- Tape measure
- Utility knife
Measure and Prep
You’ll need two measurements to determine the correct Solid Step configuration for your RV.
- Measure the width of the door jamb (inner flange to inner flange).
- Measure from the ground to the door threshold.
The Lippert 26” Solid Step fits door widths from 25” to 28.9”, and the Lippert 30-inch Solid Step fits door widths from 29” to 36”. Your first measurement will help you select the correct Solid Step width for your camper.
The second measurement will guide your Solid Step configuration selection. Here’s a breakdown:
- Double Step for 22” to 28”
- Triple Step for 27” to 36”
- Quad Step for 34” to 44”
Remove Old Step Hardware
Many RV entryways have a small threshold cover plate that must be removed before installing Lippert Solid Steps. At this time, you must also remove the old steps. This may require additional tools, depending on the fasteners used to secure the factory-installed steps.
Technician Tip: Use this moment to place the entire Solid Step assembly in your door frame. Adjust the legs to their lowest position and ensure the step hinge plate sits on the RV door threshold with minimal space underneath. To allow room for the hinge plate, there must be 3/8″ from the bottom of the entry and screen doors to the top of the threshold. Without this clearance, the doors will not close when the steps are extended.
Remove the Solid Step Cover Plate and Mark the Step Position
Regardless of your chosen step configuration, installing the Lippert Solid Step begins with pulling the spring-loaded hinge pins to separate the new threshold cover plate from the step. Align the notch in the center of the place with the center of the door frame threshold, ensuring the notched side of the plate faces out and the screw holes are farthest from the threshold. Then mark the screw hole locations to note the step position.
Technician Tip: If the door frame width is even, the cover plate notch will be center-aligned. If it’s odd, align the notch 1” to the left of center.
Determine Subfloor
You’ll then need to determine if your RV floor is a wood or laminate (foam core) substrate. This information can be obtained from your owner’s manual or by contacting your RV manufacturer. But you can also crawl underneath your camper to find out.
Technician Tip: Some RVs have removable underbelly panels for easier access, but others require cutting a small hole in the underbelly cover to look at the floor substrate. If you do this, ensure you properly tape or seal that hole before continuing your Lippert Solid Step installation.
Drill Pilot Holes, Install Cover Plate, & Attach Step Assembly
For wood subfloors, you’ll use the 5/32” bit to drill pilot holes for the cover plate. For laminate subfloors, use the 13/64” bit and the added backer plate that comes with your kit for added screw retention. After drilling the pilot holes, use the appropriate screws to secure the cover plate—wood screws for wood subfloors and self-tapping screws for laminate subfloors.
Finally, place the step assembly into the door frame with the legs extended. Pull the spring-loaded hinge pins out of the step assembly and align the hinge barrels with those on the cover plate. Release the pins to attach the steps to the threshold plate.
Raise Steps & Adjust Brackets
Lift the steps into their Transport position to check that the transport latch flanges rest against the door frame. You may need to adjust them by loosening the two bolts on either end of the transport lock to reset the latching mechanism’s position. Use the 7/16” socket and socket wrench to adjust the transport lock brackets.
Then, set the steps in transport mode. Test for a secure installation by gently shaking the assembly and simulating road vibration. You should also check the transport lock operation to ensure the latch flanges don’t scrape against your RV door frame.
Install the Optional Step Light
The magnetic Lippert Step Light is a great RV step accessory to complete your Solid Step installation. The magnetic strip is a simple peel-and-stick application that’s designed to be placed underneath the top Solid Step. Once installed, you’ll have a motion-activated, battery-powered (AA) step light to ensure better safety and security when entering or exiting your RV after dark.
Hopefully, these tips helped you install your Lippert Solid Step, whichever step model you purchase. If you don’t feel comfortable completing this Lippert Solid Step installation alone, contact our Service Department.
Here are a few more DIY RV upgrades:
- Is this Lippert Ladder Your Best Option for RV Roof Access?
- Does Your RV Need Lippert Tire Linc?
- Safer Towing with a CURT Electronic Brake Controller?
- Should You Upgrade with Trailer Sway Control?
Have you successfully installed a Lippert Solid Step? Share your tips with our RV community in the comments below.
