How to Measure for Motorhome Steps

Thinking about replacing those rusty old steps on your motorhome? Or maybe you want to upgrade to a sturdier step that feels like it was actually made to support adult humans?

Every RV is different, therefore there's no "one-size-fits-all" step out there. Fortunately, it's super easy to measure for replacement steps and choose the right model for your rig!

Note: You always want to follow any measurement instructions that come with your step or that are recommended by your step manufacturer. Measurement requirements can differ slightly between models. However, generally speaking, most steps require two main measurements:

1. Your mounting dimensions

2. The distance between your mounting point to the ground

Let's get started!

Step 1: Measure Mounting Width & Depth

Motorhome steps generally mount to the underside of the camper chassis, directly beneath the doorway. To decide which size you'll need, locate the space available underneath your camper that lines up with the doorframe, then measure the width and depth.

For the width, measure the distance between the factory mounting brackets. For depth, make sure you have enough room for your new mounting plate without encountering other components beneath your RV.

Measuring Mounting Width for Motorhome Step Replacement

Measuring Mounting Depth of Motorhome Step Replacements

Step 2: Measure Entry Height

Make sure your RV is level, then measure from the mounting point to the ground. This is called your entry height.

The entry height should roughly match the height of the steps when they're fully extended, plus 6" to 8" to account for the drop from the bottom step to the ground.

Example:

If your entry height is 24" from the mounting point to the ground, your steps should be about 16"-18" when extended.

16" step + 8" to ground = 24" entry height

Entry Height - Measure from Ground to Top of Threshold

Bolt Hole Patterns

If you don't want to drill new holes into your RV and want to go the extra step, we recommend measuring your existing bolt pattern on either your old steps or under your RV on the mounting plate. Measure from center to center of the horizontal holes, and then center to center of the vertical mounting holes. Then you can match your new mounting plate holes up with the old and drill into the pre-existing holes.

A Note on Outriggers:

Depending on your steps, you may need outriggers for installation. Outriggers bolt to your RV frame and provide brackets for the steps to attach to, in particular when the old steps were longer or wider than the new steps.

The specific location and orientation of the outriggers depends on the RV/trailer. However, the general instructions for installing steps and outriggers is as follows:

Ensure step is completely backed up against the step supports on frame.
Insert carriage bolts and flange lock nuts. Tighten down only until snug in order to make adjustments.
Verify that the step housing is square, level to the outrigger, and plumb to the chassis. Then, tighten the carriage bolts down.
Attach tech screws through the step supports, to the step supports on the chassis.
Attach lag bolt or bolts to floor through the outer end holes in the outrigger.

Related Products

Shop Step Rugs

Shop Step Lights

Shop Step Outriggers

Written by: Amber S.

Updated on: 12/14/21

Darrick

6/14/2022

I am looking to replace my camper steps on our 2015 Forest River Vengeance 377V. They are the old 3 step fold up ones. I want to go with the newer aluminum folding steps. Would like the 4 step model if possible. The measurements are 27 1/2 wide, 15 3/4 deep and 35 1/2 high. I measured just like it said to on the site. Not sure what will fit. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks you, Darrick

David B.

6/17/2022

Darrick, when you say folding steps are you meaning this, TorkLift GlowStep Revolution Uprising Steps w/ Booster Step - 4 Steps - 28" Base - 325 lbs # TLA9005?

Explore Expert Info

Videos

for

Help Articles

for

Expert Answers

for

Lippert Outriggers for Manual RV Steps Spec Review

Mighty Cord 5th Wheel/Gooseneck Wiring Harness DIY Install - 2024 Ram 2500

In-Depth Review of the Replacement Step Frame for Kwikee RV Electric Steps

Lend-a-Hand Extra Large Folding Grab Handle for RVs Review

Curt 10" Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Lube Plate Feature Review

Review of SM Arnold RV Cleaner - Wash Mitts and Brushes - 38125-688

Hands-On with the Curt 10" Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Lube Plate

Feature Breakdown: Replacement Steps, Motor, and Switch for Kwikee RV Electric Steps

All You Need to Know About the Lippert Manual Pull-Out Step for RVs

Breaking Down the Replacement Steps, Motor, and Control for Kwikee RV Electric Steps

Review of Specialty Recreation RV Showers and Tubs - Indoor Shower - SR55RR

Review of Utopia RV Sinks - Gunmetal Double Bowl RV Kitchen Sink - UT72RR

How to Measure for Travel Trailer and Fifth Wheel Steps

Flat Towing Package for 2014-2018 Jeep Cherokee

Cleaning Your RV Black Water Tank in 4 Easy Steps

Trailer Wiring Diagrams

No Missteps Here: Best Camper and RV Steps (2022)

Best Vehicles to Flat Tow Behind an RV

5 Reasons to Convert Your RV Lights to LEDs Today

Trailer Lighting Requirements

Diode Installation Instructions for a Dinghy with Separate Tail Light Wiring

Which RV Propane Tank Size Do I Need?

How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop

Trailer Maintenance Schedule

Will TorkLift GlowStep Revolution #TLA8002 Fit a 2022 Forest River Aurora With Lippert Outriggers?

Hello Theresa, Yes, the TorkLift GlowStep Revolution #TLA8002 will work on your 2022 Forest River Aurora 18BHS based on the measurements you provided. Your 24 inch ground clearance is right within the operating range for the 2-step #TLA8002, and the…

view full answer...

Replacement for Dexter Grease Seal 010-019-00

Grease Seal #RG06-050 is the replacement part for the Dexter 010-019-00. It is 1.719 inches inner diameter and 2.565 inches outer diameter. It is a fit for 3500 lb axles. This is a confirmed replacement cross-reference.

view full answer...

Replacement Steps for 2017 Forest River Sale Cruise Lite 171RBXL

The TorkLift Glow Step Revolution #TLA8102 are designed to work as a universal replacement option, and won't be coach specific. Additionally, we do not have information that tells us what steps fit on different coaches, so you will want to…

view full answer...

P/N TLA8003 Torklift Glowstep Revolution Dimensions

I spoke to my contact at Torklift and he informed me that the left to right width of the mounting bracket of the Torklift Glowstep Revolutions like the part #TLA8003 is 27-1/2 inches and the front to back depth is 12 inches. All of the Torklift steps…

view full answer...

Can Torklift GlowStep Revolution Scissor Steps Fit on 2021 Lance 1995

Hey Adam, it's not uncommon for replacement RV steps to be slightly wider or narrower that what was on the trailer previous so with that in mind the Torklift GlowStep Revolution part #TLA8002 would work for you as long as the area for the step is…

view full answer...

Best Manual Pull Out 2 Step Recommendation for Travel Trailer

The nicest manual 2 step we offer is the Torklift Glowstep part #TLA8002. This step is super smooth and since it pulls out and has feet that touch the ground it will be super stable too.

view full answer...

Which Torklift GlowStep Should be Used on 2018 Forest River Rockwood Roo 23IKSS

Your threshold height of 33-3/4 inches is perfect for the TorkLift GlowStep 3-Step part #TLA8003 which is designed tow work with the threshold height range of 25-1/2 inch to 36 inch.

view full answer...

Are 1,000 lb e2 Round Bars Too Much for a 412 lb Tongue Weight Trailer

Hey Ed, thanks for reaching out! The Fastway e2 Weight Distribution w/ 2-Point Sway Control #FA94-00-1061 will be too much for your trailer if the 412 lb weight rating you mentioned is with everything fully loaded. If that's the dry tongue…

view full answer...

Dimensions of Lippert Kwikee Revolution Double Electric Step #LC3725791

I spoke to my Lippert contact and they informed me that the mounting width of the #LC3725791 is 24-5/8 inches center on center and 25-9/16 inches over all. I have attached an image of the mounting holes for you to check out. The width of the step is…

view full answer...

Replacement Screens For Ventline VD0434 With and Without Switch

The Replacement Screen Frame with Screen #BVC0573-31 has a knockout which you can see in the upper left corner in the image below. If you would like to replace the switch to be safe it is also available with the switch #BVC0573-31R.

view full answer...

How are the Lippert Replacement Kwikee Steps Extended for Install

You'll need to use a jumper wire to put power and ground on the motor wires of the Replacement Steps, Motor, and Control for Kwikee RV Electric Steps #LC3725791 which will extend them so you can install the setup.

view full answer...

Replacement Kwikee Revolution Double Step for 2018 Winnebago View

Hey Andrew, the only solution for what you have is the part #LC3725791 which does come with more than what you need but there isn't just a bare frame like you mentioned.

view full answer...

Departments

Towing

Sports and Recreation

Trailer Parts

Vehicle

Motorhome/RV

Contact & Help

What our customers are saying:

"Your internet site is very well organized and easy to use...My order was shipped very promptly and included everything I ordered...All in all this was a simple procedure for what can be a complicated order. I would use your company again or recommend you to others. Your selection was broad and your prices fair."

Robert

Bloomington, IL