Motorhomes or RVs are becoming increasingly popular as a mode of transportation and a place to live. These vehicles are equipped with various amenities that make it easy to travel, camp, and enjoy the outdoors. One of the essential features of an RV is the electric step that allows you to enter and exit the vehicle safely. In this article, we will discuss the wiring diagram of the motorhome electric step and provide an in-depth guide to make the process easier for you.
What is an Electric Step on a Motorhome?
An electric step is a retractable step that is installed on the entrance of a motorhome. It helps you get in and out of the vehicle safely, especially when the height of the motorhome is substantial. The electric step is motorized and can be activated by a switch, usually located near the entrance of the vehicle. Once the step is activated, it extends outwards to provide a sturdy platform for you to step on, making it easy to enter and exit the motorhome.
How Does the Electric Step Work?
The electric step works by utilizing a motor that is connected to a series of gears and levers. When the switch is activated, the motor turns, causing the gears and levers to move. This movement causes the step to extend outwards from the motorhome, providing a sturdy platform for you to step onto. When the switch is turned off, the step retracts back into the motorhome.
Motorhome Electric Step Wiring Diagram
The electric step on a motorhome is wired using a specific wiring diagram that ensures that the electrical components work together correctly. The wiring diagram is designed to prevent any electrical malfunction that could lead to safety hazards or damage to the motorhome. Below is a detailed wiring diagram for a motorhome electric step.
| Wire Color | Function |
|---|---|
| Black | Ground |
| Red | Power (12-volt) |
| White | Extend Switch |
| Yellow | Retract Switch |
| Brown | Open Door Switch |
| Green | Closed Door Switch |
| Blue | Step Light |
| Orange | Step Ground |
The wiring diagram consists of eight wires that perform specific functions. The ground wire is black, and it connects to the chassis ground of the motorhome. The red wire provides 12-volt power to the electric step. The white wire is the extend switch wire that activates the step to extend when the switch is turned on. The yellow wire is the retract switch wire that activates the step to retract when the switch is turned on. The brown wire is the open door switch wire that activates the step to open when the door is opened. The green wire is the closed door switch wire that activates the step to close when the door is closed. The blue wire is the step light wire that provides light to the step platform. The orange wire is the step ground wire that connects to the step’s metal frame to provide a ground connection.
FAQs
What should I do if my motorhome electric step stops working?
If your motorhome electric step stops working, the first thing you should check is the wiring and the fuses. Make sure that all the wires are connected correctly and that there are no loose connections. Check the fuses to see if any of them have blown. If the wiring and fuses are okay, then the problem could be with the motor, and you should seek the assistance of a professional.
Can I install the electric step myself?
Installing an electric step on a motorhome can be a challenging task, especially if you are not familiar with electrical wiring. It is recommended that you seek the assistance of a professional to install the electric step to ensure that it is installed correctly and safely.
Can I replace the switch on my electric step?
Yes, you can replace the switch on your electric step. However, you should make sure that the new switch is compatible with the wiring diagram of the electric step.
How often should I lubricate my electric step?
You should lubricate your electric step at least once every six months to ensure smooth operation.
How do I clean my electric step?
You can clean your electric step with soap and water. Make sure that you dry the step thoroughly after cleaning to prevent any electrical damage.
In conclusion, the motorhome electric step wiring diagram is an essential aspect of ensuring the safety and proper functioning of the electric step. It is crucial to follow the wiring diagram to avoid any electrical malfunctions that could lead to safety hazards or damage to the motorhome. If you have any questions or concerns about the wiring of your electric step, seek the assistance of a professional.
