Lippert 379769 Kwikee Replacement Kit For 28 31 37 39 Series Imgl/9510 Control Review

The One Thing I Didn’t Expect from the Lippert 379769 Kwikee Replacement Kit For 28 31 37 39 Series Imgl/9510 Control

My RV’s Kwikee steps are usually as reliable as the sunrise, but lately, they’ve been acting more like a moody teenager. After a particularly frustrating morning where the steps decided to retract halfway and then freeze, I knew it was time to address the control unit. This is where the Lippert 379769 Kwikee Replacement Kit For 28 31 37 39 Series Imgl/9510 Control entered the picture. Lippert, a name synonymous with RV components, offers this specific kit designed for their 28, 31, 37, and 39 series IMGL/9510 control systems. My initial impression upon unboxing this kit was positive; the components felt robust, and the instruction manual, though brief, seemed adequate. I briefly considered looking for generic alternatives or attempting a repair on the old unit, but the peace of mind from a direct replacement kit was too appealing. My first reaction was a sense of quiet optimism, a feeling that this fix might finally bring my steps back to their dependable best.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lippert 379769 Kwikee Replacement Kit For 28 31 37 39 Series Imgl/9510 Control to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed this replacement kit in my RV’s storage bay, a cramped but accessible space. The testing grounds were essentially my driveway and a few short trips to local campgrounds, replicating everyday use. The control unit was exposed to the typical dust and occasional moisture found in an RV environment.

Ease of installation was surprisingly straightforward; the unit connected seamlessly to the existing wiring harness and motor. There was no steep learning curve; the system immediately recognized the new control. My only minor hiccup was double-checking the wire connections to ensure a secure fit, a common practice for any electrical component.

After the initial installation, the steps retracted and extended with a smooth, consistent action, a welcome change from their previous erratic behavior. The immediate improvement was noticeable, restoring the dependable operation I had grown accustomed to.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and numerous cycles of the RV steps, the Lippert replacement unit continues to perform flawlessly. It has handled daily use, including multiple entries and exits, without any sign of faltering. The system has remained responsive in various weather conditions, from warm summer days to cooler, damp mornings.

Durability appears to be a strong suit of this kit. There are no visible signs of wear or tear on the plastic housing or the connectors. The internal components seem to be holding up exceptionally well, with no performance degradation or stiffness in operation.

Maintenance has been minimal, which is ideal for RV components. A quick wipe-down of the exterior housing is all that’s typically required. I haven’t encountered any specific issues or required any specialized cleaning.

Compared to my previous experiences with older, failing control units, this replacement kit from Lippert is a significant upgrade. It performs with the reliability I expect from a dedicated replacement part, and frankly, it’s outperforming the original unit in terms of consistent operation.

Breaking Down the Features of Lippert 379769 Kwikee Replacement Kit For 28 31 37 39 Series Imgl/9510 Control

Specifications

The Lippert 379769 Kwikee Replacement Kit For 28 31 37 39 Series Imgl/9510 Control is designed as a direct replacement for specific Kwikee electric step models. This includes the 28, 31, 37, and 39 series IMGL/9510 control systems. The kit itself contains the electronic control unit, essential for managing the step’s operation.

This control unit’s primary function is to interface with the RV’s door switch and the step motor, ensuring synchronized retraction and extension. Its specific compatibility with the IMGL/9510 series means it’s engineered to deliver the correct voltage and signal for those particular step mechanisms. This direct-fit design simplifies installation and minimizes the need for complex modifications or wiring adapters, which is a significant advantage for RV owners looking for a straightforward repair.

Performance & Functionality

The core job of this control unit is to make the Kwikee steps operate reliably, and it excels at this task. It provides the necessary power and logic for the steps to extend smoothly when the door is opened and retract cleanly when the door is closed. This ensures a secure entry and exit from the RV.

The unit’s main strength lies in its consistent and predictable performance. Unlike my old unit, which would sometimes hesitate or freeze, this replacement operates without any noticeable lag or erratic behavior. It simply does its job, making the steps function exactly as they should.

It meets and even slightly exceeds expectations, considering the frustration caused by the failing original unit. The functionality is exactly as advertised, restoring the expected convenience of automatic RV steps.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Lippert control unit appears solid, with a durable plastic housing that feels substantial. The connectors are robust and designed for a secure fit, which is crucial for any automotive electrical component.

Ergonomically, the unit is designed for installation rather than frequent user interaction. Its physical design is compact and rectangular, fitting neatly into the designated space within the RV. The connectors are clearly labeled and easy to access during installation.

There’s no real “learning curve” in terms of usability, as its function is entirely automated once installed. The straightforward plug-and-play nature is a testament to its user-friendly design for the installer.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience and the typical lifespan of such components, this Lippert control unit is expected to last for many years. The materials used suggest good resilience against the vibrations and environmental factors common in RV applications.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple: an occasional visual inspection and cleaning of the exterior is sufficient. The robust construction means it should resist common issues like dust ingress or minor moisture exposure if installed correctly.

I haven’t identified any specific failure points yet. However, as with any electrical component exposed to RV conditions, ensuring all connections remain clean and secure is key to long-term reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

This specific product is a replacement control unit, meaning it’s designed to integrate directly into an existing Kwikee step system. Therefore, it doesn’t typically come with additional accessories in the way a new step assembly might.

The main “customization” or compatibility aspect lies in its specific fitment for the 28, 31, 37, and 39 series IMGL/9510 control systems. This means it’s engineered to work with the existing wiring harness and motor of those particular step models. There are no user-adjustable settings or modular components within the kit itself.

Pros and Cons of Lippert 379769 Kwikee Replacement Kit For 28 31 37 39 Series Imgl/9510 Control

Who Should Buy Lippert 379769 Kwikee Replacement Kit For 28 31 37 39 Series Imgl/9510 Control?

This replacement kit is ideal for RV owners who have a Kwikee electric step system from the 28, 31, 37, or 39 series, specifically those utilizing the IMGL/9510 control. If your existing control unit has failed or is exhibiting erratic behavior, this kit offers a direct and reliable solution. It’s perfect for someone who values the convenience and safety of functioning automatic steps and wants to restore their RV to its optimal condition.

Those who should probably skip this product are RV owners with different brands or models of electric steps, as this kit is not universally compatible. It might also be unnecessary for individuals whose step systems are still working perfectly well, as it’s a component replacement, not an upgrade feature.

For those purchasing this kit, I would recommend ensuring you have basic automotive electrical tools on hand, such as wire strippers and crimpers, though the kit is designed for plug-and-play where possible. Having a reliable source for the RV’s wiring diagram, if available, could also be helpful during the installation process.

Conclusion on Lippert 379769 Kwikee Replacement Kit For 28 31 37 39 Series Imgl/9510 Control

The Lippert 379769 Kwikee Replacement Kit For 28 31 37 39 Series Imgl/9510 Control proved to be a highly effective solution for restoring the functionality of my RV’s electric steps. Its direct-fit design and straightforward installation made a potentially frustrating repair process surprisingly manageable. The performance has been consistently reliable, and the build quality suggests it will provide dependable service for years to come.

While the price point is certainly on the higher side for a single component, the value proposition is strong when considering the restoration of critical RV functionality and the avoidance of more extensive, costly repairs or system replacements. For any RV owner experiencing issues with the specified Kwikee step control units, I would absolutely recommend this kit. It delivers on its promise of a reliable fix, bringing peace of mind and restoring the seamless operation of essential RV amenities.