I was just wondering if anyone has ever disabled their electric step sides. The reason I ask is because my father has the automatic step side on his truck and he wants to disable it for the winter season. He is afraid of snow/ice and salt build up and in my opinion he should. Normally you would just disable it using the on off switch however when turned off the side step remains closed. He is partially disabled and needs the steps to help him get in his truck. Is it possible to pull the fuse while in an opened state or could this harm the computer?
Thanks in advance!
Joe

 

For future reference if anybody is seeking the same information, open the sidesteps and pull the fuse. Be sure to pack the hinges with heavy grease.

 

I have aftermarket Amp Research power steps. I have never had a problem in the winter. I thought they would get jammed up with ice and snow, but they never do.... not sure how this can be, but its true.

 

Not sure which steps he has but he lives on dirt roads as well. It hasn't started snowing yet but with the wet fall weather sand has already jammed up the driver side step. Have to pressure wash constantly to keep them clean. I wonder if he can get sleeves for the hinges?

 

Here's another thought.... I have noticed a creaking or squeaking sound when my steps unfold an fold... usually after a rainstorm and/or a ride on a dusty gravel road. So I do the same thing... power wash. I used to spray some wd 40 or white lithium grease on the hinges, but that only attracted more dirt and sand. The hinge pins on mine are stainless anyway, so they haven't shown any rust. I only assume the steps you are talking about are similar. Anyway, they shouldn't have stopped working under those normal conditions anyway.

 

There are probably not too many models of steps out there so they are probably the same. And yes it does creak and scratch after rainfall but like you said, it stops after a quick pressure wash. I think I will buy a boot for a shock and slide it over the hinges using a quick clamp at the top and bottom to ensure no dirt gets back in and see if it will work. It stopped working after the roads turned to sludge but he washed it and away it went working again, so they are working as they are supposed to. If I get around to it I will try the fix and post pics.