Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch Review

What to Expect from the Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch

For anyone maintaining RVs or similar vehicles, a functional door is paramount, and that often means a working step. My own journey to finding the Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch began with a frustratingly inoperable Kwikee step on a customer’s aging camper. The old plunger switch had succumbed to the elements and repeated use, rendering the entire step mechanism useless. This situation necessitated a reliable replacement part, and after a quick search, Lippert’s offering seemed to be the direct solution. Upon first inspection, the unit presents a simple, no-nonsense design; it’s clearly built for function over form. While I briefly considered generic alternatives, the specificity of the Kwikee system made sticking with a genuine Lippert part the most sensible choice to ensure compatibility and performance. My initial reaction was one of quiet relief – a clear path forward to resolving a common but irritating problem.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing ground was the practical, often dusty environment of my workshop, specifically on the aforementioned RV’s entry step mechanism. Installation was straightforward; the Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch connected easily to the existing wiring harness. I didn’t need any special tools beyond basic electrical connectors and a screwdriver. The switch actuated immediately and smoothly as the door was opened and closed, a welcome change from the previous stiff and unreliable operation. There were no surprises or quirks; it performed exactly as its design intended from the very first test cycle.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use on a frequently accessed RV door, this plunger switch has proven its mettle. It has endured the typical dust and occasional moisture encountered around vehicle entry points without any noticeable degradation in performance. The pleated design appears to offer a decent degree of protection against immediate ingress of debris, which is crucial for longevity in this application. Maintenance has been non-existent, as expected for a sealed electromechanical component like this; a quick wipe down is all that’s needed. Compared to the original switch, which likely failed due to age and environmental exposure, this Lippert unit feels substantially more robust, suggesting a longer service life.

Breaking Down the Features of Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch

Specifications

The Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch is designed as a direct replacement for specific Kwikee step systems that utilize a plunger-activated switch. It features two blade-style electrical connections, ensuring a secure and reliable link to the step’s control circuitry. The core of its functionality lies in its pleated plunger mechanism. This design helps to actuate the switch reliably as the door opens or closes against it, signaling the step to deploy or retract.

The pleated design itself is a key feature, offering a degree of protection for the internal contacts against dust and moisture, which are common adversaries in the RV environment. This specification is vital because it directly impacts the lifespan and consistent operation of the RV’s electric step. A simple, robust switch is essential for the convenience and safety of stepping into and out of a vehicle, and this model aims to provide just that. Compared to some older, more exposed plunger designs, this pleated version offers a subtle but important upgrade in environmental sealing.

Performance & Functionality

In its primary role, the Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch performs its function flawlessly. The step reliably deploys when the door is opened and retracts when it’s closed, a testament to the accurate actuation of the switch. There have been no instances of the step failing to operate or operating erratically, even with repeated cycles. Its strength lies in its simplicity and directness; it’s not trying to be overly complicated, it just needs to work, and it does.

The main weakness, if one could call it that, is its specificity to Kwikee systems that require this particular plunger type. If your system uses a different type of switch, this unit wouldn’t be a suitable replacement. However, for its intended application, it meets and exceeds expectations for reliability and ease of integration. The responsiveness is immediate, with no noticeable delay between door movement and the step’s action.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this door switch is purely functional, prioritizing reliability over aesthetics. It’s constructed from durable plastic, common for such automotive and RV components, and the two blade connectors are standard and easy to attach. The plunger itself has a consistent resistance when pressed, providing tactile feedback that it’s engaging properly.

Ergonomically, it’s designed to be mounted in a fixed position, with the door making contact. There’s no direct ‘handling’ of the switch itself, so traditional ergonomic considerations are less relevant. However, the pleated plunger is a thoughtful design element that offers a slight advantage in durability by preventing direct exposure of the internal mechanism. The overall feel is one of sturdy, dependable construction for its intended purpose.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its intended environment and function, the durability of the Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch is paramount. Under normal use, which involves repeated actuation by a swinging door, this switch is built to last. The materials appear robust enough to withstand typical outdoor exposure, and the sealed nature of the pleated plunger should prevent premature failure from dust and moisture.

Maintenance is essentially zero; once installed correctly, it requires no attention. However, a potential failure point for any such switch is extreme impact or prolonged exposure to corrosive elements, neither of which are typical for a door switch scenario. Its longevity is directly tied to the quality of its internal components and the protective design of the pleated housing. For a component meant to be installed and forgotten, this unit seems well-equipped.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch comes as a single component, and there are no specific accessories that are typically bundled with it. Its purpose is to be a direct replacement part for a singular function within a larger system. Consequently, there are no customization options inherent to the switch itself.

It is designed to integrate specifically with Lippert Kwikee electric step assemblies that require this type of switch. Compatibility with aftermarket accessories or modifications is not a design consideration, as it’s a highly specific, utilitarian replacement part. The main “accessory” in its functional context would be the wiring harness and the RV door it interfaces with.

Pros and Cons of Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch

Who Should Buy Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch?

This Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch is an ideal purchase for RV owners, camper enthusiasts, and anyone who maintains vehicles equipped with Lippert Kwikee electric steps that have a faulty or worn plunger door switch. If your electric step is no longer deploying or retracting correctly due to a bad door switch, this part is likely the solution you need. It’s also a valuable item for RV service technicians who frequently encounter these types of repairs.

Those who should probably skip this product are individuals looking for a universal switch or those with RVs or vehicles that do not utilize the Kwikee brand or a plunger-style door switch for their step actuation. While it’s a simple component, ensuring it’s the correct replacement for your specific Kwikee model is crucial. No specific accessories are essential, but having basic electrical tools like wire strippers and connectors on hand will facilitate a smooth installation.

Conclusion on Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch

The Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch is a straightforward, effective replacement part that successfully addresses a common point of failure in Lippert Kwikee electric step systems. Its robust construction, ease of installation via its two blade-style connections, and reliable pleated plunger mechanism make it a solid choice for restoring functionality to a malfunctioning RV step. The value proposition is clear: it provides a cost-effective solution to a potentially expensive problem, bringing convenience back to vehicle entry.

I would recommend this switch to anyone experiencing issues with their Kwikee steps that are attributable to a worn or broken door plunger. It’s a no-frills component that does exactly what it’s designed to do, efficiently and dependably, making it a worthwhile investment for maintaining the usability of your RV or camper.