Rev: 10.05.18
Page 3
CCD-0001632
If the power wire to the step is disconnected from its source and reconnected, a spark is common. This is caused
by the momentary charging of the control unit and does not necessarily indicate the system is staying on, which
would cause a drain on the battery. If battery drain is suspected, observe the under step light (if so equipped) while
the step is extending. The override switch MUSt be 'off' for the under step light to operate.
Prior To Operation
Be sure that all ground connections are securely fastened with good metal-to-metal contact. A good ground is
required for proper step operation. To determine if a control unit is not shutting off:
1. Remove the 4-way connector to the chassis and the 2-way connector between the step motor and the
control unit.
2. Place a voltmeter between the red and yellow motor wires at the 2-way connector from the control
unit. Reconnect the 4-way connector.
3. Turn the override switch 'on.' If any voltage registers on the voltmeter for more than five seconds, the
control unit is not shutting off and may be defective.
Note: When doing this test, switch the voltmeter leads back and forth between the red and yellow motor
wires to be sure no voltage registers.
4. If any voltage does register, disconnect the 4-way connector to keep the step motor from overheating.
5. If 0 voltage is present, the control unit has shut off and is normal.
If the step assembly does not work or operates erratically, such as extending only part way and then shutting off,
the first item that should be checked is the vehicle's battery. Low supply voltage may cause erratic operation of the
step. Poor ground connections may also cause erratic operation of the step assembly. Check battery voltage and
condition. A battery in good condition that is properly charged, will have a voltage reading of approximately 12.6
volts with no load. Check the voltage at the battery and then also at the 4-way connector located on the control
unit. Insure that all battery and step control unit connections are clean and secured. Recharge or replace the battery
as necessary, and then retest the step for proper operation.
The step assembly may also operate erratically if the step is being operated directly from a converter, where the
output from the converter is not adequate or properly filtered for a clean DC voltage. The converter MUSt be
capable of producing a minimum of 30 amps for proper step assembly operation.
All control units are equipped with an ignition override system. This system is designed so that the vehicle will not
be driven with the step in the extended position. When the step is locked in the extended position (step lockout
switch is in the ‘off’ position), the door closed, and the ignition is turned on, the ignition override system will
engage and the step will automatically retract.
The ‘Auto Extend’ feature is designed to extend the step when the door is opened for the first time after the vehicle
ignition is turned off, even if the step override switch is turned off. When the ignition is switched on, the function of
the step override switch is disabled and the step will always extend when the door is opened and retract when the
door is closed.
General Service Notes
12 volt automotive batteries contain sulfuric acid which can cause severe burns. Avoid contact with
the skin, eyes and clothing. 12 volt automotive batteries produce hydrogen gas which is explosive;
keep cigarettes, open flames and sparks away from the battery at all times.
Keep fingers, arms, and legs clear of step mechanism while performing these tests.
