Lippert 379146 Kwikee 9510 Control For Imgl/9510 Control Steps Review

Using the Lippert 379146 Kwikee 9510 Control For Imgl/9510 Control Steps in the Real World

The Lippert 379146 Kwikee 9510 Control For Imgl/9510 Control Steps is a crucial component for ensuring the reliable operation of certain RV entry steps. Lippert, a well-known name in RV components, designed this control unit to manage the automatic deployment and retraction of their Kwikee steps. My need for this specific replacement part arose from a frustrating failure on a recent camping trip, leaving me with a stuck step that was both a safety hazard and a major inconvenience. The original control unit had simply given up the ghost, leaving the steps in a perpetually retracted state, forcing me to use a wobbly portable step.

Upon receiving the new Lippert 379146 Kwikee 9510 Control For Imgl/9510 Control Steps, my first impression was one of practical utility. It’s a compact, sealed electronic module, and the plastic housing felt robust enough for its intended environment. The wiring harness connection points looked standard and well-terminated, giving me confidence it would integrate smoothly with the existing step mechanism. I had briefly considered a generic universal RV step controller, but the specificity of the Kwikee system made sticking with an OEM part the safer and more straightforward option for guaranteed compatibility. A sense of cautious optimism accompanied its arrival, hoping for a swift resolution to my step-related woes.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lippert 379146 Kwikee 9510 Control For Imgl/9510 Control Steps to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing occurred in my home garage, where I mounted the new control unit to the RV frame near the existing step motor and wiring. The weather was fair, so environmental factors were minimal, but the goal was to confirm functionality before hitting the road. Plugging in the harness was a satisfying click, and the intuitive nature of RV wiring meant I didn’t need the manual to determine which connections went where.

Operation was immediately apparent: turning the ignition off and opening the RV door caused the Kwikee steps to smoothly extend. Closing the door and turning the ignition back on resulted in their equally smooth retraction. There were no immediate quirks or surprising behaviors; it just worked as intended, which was a welcome relief.

Extended Use & Reliability

After installing the Lippert 379146 Kwikee 9510 Control For Imgl/9510 Control Steps, I’ve now logged several trips covering hundreds of miles and numerous step cycles. The unit has held up exceptionally well through various conditions, from dusty desert campgrounds to humid coastal areas. I’ve even had a few instances of unexpected rain showers hit while the steps were deployed, and they continued to function flawlessly afterward without any apparent signs of moisture ingress affecting performance.

Durability appears to be a strong point. There are no visible cracks, no stiffness in the plastic housing, and most importantly, the performance hasn’t degraded. Maintenance has been non-existent; I simply ensure the wiring connections remain clean and secure during my regular RV checks. Compared to the original unit that failed prematurely, this replacement from Lippert feels like a significant upgrade in reliability and longevity.

Breaking Down the Features of Lippert 379146 Kwikee 9510 Control For Imgl/9510 Control Steps

Specifications

The Lippert 379146 Kwikee 9510 Control For Imgl/9510 Control Steps is a self-contained electronic module designed to interface with the existing Kwikee 9510 series step motors. Its primary function is to interpret signals from the RV’s door switch and ignition system to control the step extension and retraction. The unit features a weather-resistant, sealed plastic enclosure to protect its internal components from the elements commonly encountered by RVs. It connects via a multi-pin wiring harness, ensuring a direct fit for compatible IMGL and 9510 control step systems.

The sealed nature of the enclosure is critical for its application, preventing dust, dirt, and moisture from compromising its internal circuitry. This durability is paramount for a component exposed to road grime and varying weather. While specific dimensions aren’t critical for the end-user beyond ensuring it fits the mounting location, its compact design means it generally won’t interfere with other undercarriage components. The key specification here is its direct compatibility with specific Kwikee step models, ensuring plug-and-play replacement without complex wiring modifications.

Performance & Functionality

The core job of this control unit is to reliably manage the Kwikee steps, and in this regard, it performs exceptionally well. Extension and retraction are smooth, consistent, and timely, responding accurately to door and ignition cues. It integrates seamlessly with the vehicle’s electrical system, providing the necessary power and logic to the step motor.

Its primary strength lies in its fail-safe operation and direct compatibility, ensuring that once installed correctly, it simply works. The main weakness, if one could call it that, is its specificity; it’s not a universal solution and won’t work with other brands or models of RV steps. However, for those who own compatible Kwikee systems, it meets and exceeds expectations by restoring full functionality.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Lippert 379146 Kwikee 9510 Control For Imgl/9510 Control Steps is purely functional. The robust, sealed plastic housing is designed for the harsh undercarriage environment of an RV, which is more important than aesthetic appeal. The multi-pin connector is designed for a secure, weather-tight connection, a crucial detail for outdoor equipment.

Ergonomically, the unit itself isn’t interacted with directly by the user once installed. However, its design makes for straightforward installation. The access to the connector and mounting points is generally good, allowing for a relatively easy swap out from an existing unit. The lack of exposed buttons or intricate user interfaces contributes to its simplicity and resilience.

Durability & Maintenance

This control unit is built for the long haul, typical of components designed for recreational vehicles. Under normal use, which involves thousands of cycles over several years, it is expected to provide excellent service. The weather-sealed design is the key factor in its anticipated durability.

Maintenance is virtually non-existent beyond ensuring the wiring harness connection remains clean and secure. There are no user-serviceable parts within the unit itself. Potential failure points would likely stem from extreme physical damage or prolonged electrical surges, neither of which are common issues with proper installation and typical RV operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lippert 379146 Kwikee 9510 Control For Imgl/9510 Control Steps typically comes as a standalone component. It does not include a wiring harness, as it is intended as a direct replacement where the existing harness is usually retained. Therefore, there are no significant accessories to speak of, and no inherent customization options for the control unit itself.

Its strength is in its direct compatibility with specific Kwikee IMGL and 9510 series step systems. This means it’s designed to plug directly into the existing wiring, simplifying replacement. If you need to replace the entire step mechanism or motor, those would be separate purchases with their own accessory considerations.

Pros and Cons of Lippert 379146 Kwikee 9510 Control For Imgl/9510 Control Steps

Who Should Buy Lippert 379146 Kwikee 9510 Control For Imgl/9510 Control Steps?

This control unit is an excellent choice for any RV owner who has a Lippert Kwikee 9510 or IMGL series automatic step system that has failed. It is ideal for those who prefer to maintain their RV with original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts for guaranteed compatibility and performance. If your steps have stopped working, or are acting erratically due to a faulty control module, this product is designed to solve that exact problem.

Those who should skip this product are RV owners with different brands or models of automatic steps, or manual steps. It is also not for individuals looking for a universal DIY solution for any RV step system, as its specific design requires a compatible Kwikee setup. While not strictly necessary, having a basic set of screwdrivers and wire crimpers on hand can be helpful for installation if your existing mounting hardware needs replacement.

Conclusion on Lippert 379146 Kwikee 9510 Control For Imgl/9510 Control Steps

The Lippert 379146 Kwikee 9510 Control For Imgl/9510 Control Steps is a testament to functional, durable design for a specific application. It performs its intended task of managing Kwikee RV steps flawlessly, restoring operation to a critical component that often goes unnoticed until it fails. While its upfront cost might seem a bit steep compared to generic electronics, the reliability, specific fit, and OEM quality justify the investment for anyone relying on their Kwikee steps.

For RV owners with compatible systems experiencing control issues, I would absolutely recommend this unit. It’s a straightforward replacement that delivers immediate, tangible results, providing that essential piece of mind and convenience that enhances the mobile lifestyle. If your steps are dead or acting up, don’t hesitate to pick up this control unit to get them moving again.