OEM Power Step Error

[bcbender]

Has anyone with the OEM powered steps had an issue with them not deploying? I recently noticed that my left step (PS) was hanging up when my son went with me to the quarry. I know they have a feature to return them if they detect and obstacle, (had this happen on my lift once and once off road when they were close to the ground). I assume its function is current based and so I don't know at this point if the step has too much mechanical resistance causing the motor to return it, or if the motor or gear box is the issue. A few cycles and it'll go down, but then sometimes it tries to return and gets stuck deployed. The display simply states "Power Steps Not Available" when this happens. I cycled them a few times last week and now it seems fine, but since its the left side is does not get used every time I drive like the right. Don't want to take it in yet as I'd be on my Maxcare now and have to throw down some coin.

Cheers!
Brian

 

[Topzide]

Sounds like a lubrication/binding issue with being the one side, and not being used as much. Do you have a clamp DC ammeter? Check current readings between the sides. Good luck.

 

[bcbender]

Yeah I can do that if I find the time. Sprayed some lubricant in the joint(s) last week before going away so haven't looked at it in 10 days.

 

[Diesel85]

Check for debris like gravel or stones stuck in the linkage.

My buddy had grass stuck in his. Thought he got it out, but somehow some was binding up the linkage enough to trip the sensor.

These have to be safe enough not to crush hands or feet so they are rather sensitive. Just like power windows.