Adding steps

[ndmslm]

We're have a 2007 17ft B without steps. How hard is it to add steps and any suggestions on a good brand.

[stephen99]

Originally Posted by ndmslm

We're have a 2007 17ft B without steps. How hard is it to add steps and any suggestions on a good brand.

We gave up on the metal folding step supplied by ETI and use this one instead:

https://www.amazon.com/Confer-Plasti...ateway&sr=8-14

Much better than the stock steps and light weight. We simply stand it on its side inside the trailer while traveling. Never a problem with it.

[padlin]

Originally Posted by stephen99

We gave up on the metal folding step supplied by ETI and use this one instead:

https://www.amazon.com/Confer-Plasti...ateway&sr=8-14

Much better than the stock steps and light weight. We simply stand it on its side inside the trailer while traveling. Never a problem with it.

Same one we use. Have had a number of folks stop to look at them only to be discouraged when I tell them they do not fold up. They work fine with a long bed truck. Fits perfectly between the hitch and the tail gate.

[Ron in BC]

I had ours off and on several times for various reasons. 4 bolts hold them on. Shouldn't be too difficult to retro-fit. Worse case would be that you might have to make an adaptor bracket.

I would choose the factory type step over a free standing one. When you're on sand etc. the factory one is free and clear of sand and mud etc. and doesn't require storing and set-up, it's always ready for use.

Ron

[jnfrombigt]

Stromberg-Carlson SMFP-1120 On Amazon looks identical to what I have on the 5.0

[gbaglo]

I have no issues with the factory steps and would be concerned with free-standing steps on anything but a concrete slab.

[sclifrickson]

Originally Posted by gbaglo

I have no issues with the factory steps and would be concerned with free-standing steps on anything but a concrete slab.

Same here.

[jnfrombigt]

Picture of the Stromberg Carlson SMFP-1120

Just checked the trailer and the manufacturer was Elkhart Tool. Their step appears almost identical to the one pictured

The Elkhart is 20 inch wide with a five inch drop. The Stromberg Carlson is also 20 inch wide but that model maybe a deeper drop.

[stephen99]

Originally Posted by gbaglo

I have no issues with the factory steps and would be concerned with free-standing steps on anything but a concrete slab.

We've been using the spa steps for 2 years now while full timing and have never had a problem on any kind of surface. The steps are wider and deeper than the built-in step and, in my opinion, safer.

[Ron in BC]

Well, to each his own. I'd rather have my step rock solid rather than step down onto something sitting on shifting sands.

Ron

[stephen99]

Originally Posted by Ron in BC

Well, to each his own. I'd rather have my step rock solid rather than step down onto something sitting on shifting sands.

Ron

If the sands are shifting I think it's time to leave.

[jnfrombigt]

Originally Posted by ndmslm

We're have a 2007 17ft B without steps. How hard is it to add steps and any suggestions on a good brand.

If there is no pre-existing bracket or other mounting hardware then adding an attached step might be problematic. On the return trip ours was damaged by some road debris and I had to remove it. It was an easy removal and re-install. It saved the passenger side front trailer tire and I was able to repair once home. The folks at Escape, Dave or Dustin, probably could tell you exactly what you need. Send them an email. We're just giving personal opinions.

[Marry]

And if you have a dog or cat traveling with you, get also the wrap around carpet.

[jnfrombigt]

Originally Posted by Ron in BC

Well, to each his own. I'd rather have my step rock solid rather than step down onto something sitting on shifting sands.

Ron

With that "beast" tied in front I don't know if I would feel safe regardless of step type.

[Patandlinda]

Originally Posted by stephen99

We gave up on the metal folding step supplied by ETI and use this one instead:

https://www.amazon.com/Confer-Plasti...ateway&sr=8-14

Much better than the stock steps and light weight. We simply stand it on its side inside the trailer while traveling. Never a problem with it.

Purchased the same spa step but only use at home . Found the Escape step to be too long to step in or out of trailer . Bought another step ( saw on forum )that when unfolded is closer to step in and out of trailer . Then use folding aluminum step that I cut down legs as first step if needed . Our knees really appreciate the improved step mods . Pat

[Iowa Dave]

We use the spa steps at home and on the road. We really like them and have had no problems with them shifting or tipping whatsoever. They sit flat on the floor of the 21 as we go down the road on a rug and they do not move appreciably. Many trailer tour people ask about them. Nice to be able to move them to either end when working with the awning to install the safety strap or take it off.
Iowa Dave

[h2owmn]

If I understood Reace correctly, they use two steps. One for high lift And one for not. He also said something about one not working w undercarriage insulation. So I’m just suggesting you ask eti.

[gbaglo]

Another issue that I've not solved is that the steps interfere with the skirt that's part of the screen room.

[brightday]

Originally Posted by gbaglo

Another issue that I've not solved is that the steps interfere with the skirt that's part of the screen room.

If the screen room was not an option for your 17B (it's not for mine), could you please share which one you use? I'll be needing one come spring! Thanks!

[gbaglo]

Mine came from ETI.