Lippert 369299 Kwikee Magnetic Switch For 32 Series Step Review

The Lippert 369299 Kwikee Magnetic Switch For 32 Series Step Review You’ve Been Looking For

When you’re living the RV life, reliability is paramount, and nothing highlights this more than the systems that keep you mobile and comfortable. My RV’s entry steps are a crucial part of that, and for years, the Kwikee steps had served admirably. However, a recent electrical gremlin, specifically related to the step deployment and retraction, pointed directly to the door switch. After some troubleshooting, it became clear that the magnetic switch unit was the culprit. Enter the Lippert 369299 Kwikee Magnetic Switch For 32 Series Step, a seemingly simple replacement part that promised to restore full functionality to my 32 Series Kwikee steps. My first impression of this unit, fresh out of the minimal packaging, was one of practical, no-frills construction. It felt sturdy enough for its intended purpose, a small but vital component in the larger mechanism. I had briefly considered a generic universal switch, but the specific compatibility with the Kwikee 32 Series made this Lippert part the clear, albeit slightly more expensive, choice. Replacing it brought an immediate sense of relief and restored confidence in a critical RV system.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lippert 369299 Kwikee Magnetic Switch For 32 Series Step to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing environment was, naturally, my own RV, parked in my driveway and then on a short weekend trip. The scenario was simple: replace the old, failing magnetic switch with the new Lippert 369299 Kwikee Magnetic Switch For 32 Series Step and verify that the steps deployed and retracted correctly with the opening and closing of the RV door. I performed the swap in my garage workshop, which provided good lighting and a stable surface. The conditions were dry and at a moderate temperature, typical for my area during this time of year.

Installation was straightforward, requiring only basic hand tools and a few minutes of time. The unit was immediately intuitive; it’s designed to be a direct replacement, and its function is dictated by the door’s position. There were no complex setup procedures or calibration needs. My only slight surprise was how small and unassuming the component was, given its importance to the entire step mechanism.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a few weeks of daily use, including several trips in and out of the RV, this magnetic switch has proven itself to be a reliable performer. It consistently triggers the Kwikee steps to deploy when the door opens and retract when the door closes, without any hesitation or missed cycles. The black casing has held up well, showing no signs of discoloration or damage despite occasional exposure to dust and the general environment of an RV door frame.

Maintenance for this type of component is minimal to non-existent, which is a definite plus. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed if any dust accumulates. Compared to the lifespan of the original unit, which lasted several years before failing, this replacement seems to be on par. I haven’t experienced any performance degradation; the magnetic connection remains strong and the switch operation is crisp and consistent, far superior to the intermittent failures of the old part.

Breaking Down the Features of Lippert 369299 Kwikee Magnetic Switch For 32 Series Step

Specifications

The Lippert 369299 Kwikee Magnetic Switch For 32 Series Step is a specialized component designed to integrate seamlessly with Lippert’s 32 Series steps. Its primary function is to detect the position of the RV door, sending a signal to activate or deactivate the power steps. The unit is constructed in a black color, which helps it blend in with typical RV door frames and trim.

Crucially, this kit includes the door switch only, meaning users will need to ensure their existing wiring and mounting hardware are in good condition or are being replaced separately. It is explicitly noted as being compatible with Lippert 32 Series steps and can serve as an exact replacement for the older Kwikee part number 1812971. This specific compatibility is key for ensuring proper fit and function without modification.

Performance & Functionality

The core job of this magnetic switch is to reliably signal the RV door’s open or closed state to the step control module. In my testing, it has performed this duty flawlessly. The magnetic actuation is strong enough to reliably detect the presence or absence of the door’s magnetic counterpart. This means the steps deploy as soon as the door is unlatched and retract once it’s fully closed, without any delay or false triggers.

Its strength lies in its simplicity and specificity. It does one job, and it does it well. The main area of improvement for any such component would always be longevity, and while this unit is new, its consistent performance so far is encouraging. Compared to generic switches that might require extensive wiring or modification, the direct-fit nature of this Lippert part is a significant functional advantage.

Design & Ergonomics

From a design standpoint, the Lippert 369299 Kwikee Magnetic Switch For 32 Series Step prioritizes function over form. Its black plastic housing is robust and appears to be made of a durable polymer, suitable for the often harsh environment of an RV door frame. The unit is compact, designed to be discreetly mounted without obstructing door operation or creating an eyesore.

Ergonomically, it’s a passive component; there’s no user interaction beyond the initial installation. The magnetic components are well-seated within their housings, suggesting they won’t easily dislodge. The overall build quality feels solid for what it is – a replacement part that needs to withstand vibration and the elements without complaint.

Durability & Maintenance

As a sealed electronic component, the Lippert 369299 Kwikee Magnetic Switch For 32 Series Step requires virtually no routine maintenance. Its durable black housing is designed to protect the internal magnetic switch from dust, moisture, and UV exposure, all common challenges for exterior RV components. Over the short term of my use, there have been no signs of wear, cracks, or material degradation.

The expected lifespan is difficult to definitively state after a brief period, but its sturdy construction suggests it should last for several years under normal operation. The key to its durability will be the integrity of the internal magnetic element and the sealing of the housing. For users, the primary consideration is ensuring it’s correctly installed to prevent undue stress on the unit or its wiring.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular product, the Lippert 369299 Kwikee Magnetic Switch For 32 Series Step, is sold as a door switch only kit. This means there are no additional accessories included, such as wiring harnesses, mounting screws, or the corresponding magnetic component that mounts to the door itself (though it’s implied the door-side magnet is part of the existing step system). There are no inherent customization options for the switch itself; it is a fixed design.

However, its compatibility with Kwikee 32 Series steps means it’s designed to integrate with an existing system. If users are replacing an older part number, they will typically reuse their existing wiring and mounting hardware. The black color is a practical design choice that avoids drawing attention, offering a clean look without needing further aesthetic customization.

Pros and Cons of Lippert 369299 Kwikee Magnetic Switch For 32 Series Step

Who Should Buy Lippert 369299 Kwikee Magnetic Switch For 32 Series Step?

This Lippert 369299 Kwikee Magnetic Switch For 32 Series Step is an ideal purchase for RV owners who have a Kwikee 32 Series electric step system and are experiencing issues with their door-activated step deployment or retraction. If you’ve diagnosed a faulty magnetic door switch as the cause of your step problems, this is the most straightforward and reliable solution. It’s perfect for DIY-minded individuals who want to perform their own maintenance and avoid potentially costly service calls.

Those who should probably skip this product are owners of RVs with different step brands or series, as it will not be compatible. Also, if your step issue lies with the motor, controller, or wiring harness rather than the door switch itself, this replacement part will not resolve the problem. For those comfortable with basic automotive or RV electrical work, this unit is a great choice.

Conclusion on Lippert 369299 Kwikee Magnetic Switch For 32 Series Step

The Lippert 369299 Kwikee Magnetic Switch For 32 Series Step proves to be a critical component that, when functioning correctly, ensures seamless entry and exit from your RV. Its direct-fit design and reliable magnetic actuation make it an excellent replacement for a failed original switch. While it’s sold as a switch-only unit, demanding that users reuse existing wiring and hardware, its specific compatibility with the 32 Series steps simplifies what could otherwise be a complex repair.

Considering the peace of mind and restored convenience it offers, the price point of $39.79 is justifiable for ensuring the proper operation of a key RV amenity. I would readily recommend this magnetic switch to any owner of compatible Kwikee steps experiencing door switch-related issues. If your steps are behaving erratically or not responding at all to door commands, this Lippert replacement is a sure bet to get your RV’s entryway functioning as it should.