Lippert 380073 Kwikee Service Kit For Revolution Step Motor Review

What I Found Using the Lippert 380073 Kwikee Service Kit For Revolution Step Motor

For anyone who relies on their RV’s Kwikee Revolution steps, a reliable service kit is not just a convenience, it’s a necessity. The Lippert 380073 Kwikee Service Kit For Revolution Step Motor caught my eye as the official replacement part for a system I’ve come to depend on, and frankly, couldn’t afford to fail mid-trip. My previous Kwikee steps, while generally robust, had started to show signs of the motor’s age. Specifically, the retraction was becoming sluggish, and I was experiencing occasional hesitations that made me nervous.

This specific service kit is designed to address issues with the Revolution Step motor, a critical component in this automated entry system. I opted for the genuine Lippert part to ensure compatibility and performance. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of utilitarian design; the components looked precisely manufactured and ready for installation.

I had considered a few generic motor replacements or even exploring more involved repair techniques, but the risk of incompatibility and further damage steered me back to an OEM solution. My first reaction was a sense of relief, knowing I had the correct parts to tackle a potentially frustrating repair.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lippert 380073 Kwikee Service Kit For Revolution Step Motor to the Test

My testing environment for this service kit was, naturally, the RV itself, specifically the entry door mechanism. I performed the installation in my driveway, which simulates the typical DIY mechanic’s setup—a level surface, decent lighting, but without a dedicated workshop. The real-world conditions involved standard ambient temperatures, and while I didn’t intentionally expose it to extreme elements, the subsequent usage has included varied weather conditions as I’ve taken the RV out.

First Use Experience

The installation process was straightforward. The kit contained the necessary motor and likely ancillary components to facilitate a direct replacement. I found it to be quite intuitive; if you’re familiar with basic automotive or RV component replacement, this motor swap is well within reach.

The primary surprise was the immediate improvement in step operation. The sluggishness was gone, replaced by the crisp, decisive deployment and retraction I remembered from when the steps were new. I experienced no initial quirks or issues; it was a clean swap that immediately yielded positive results.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and multiple camping trips, during which the RV door was opened and closed dozens, if not hundreds, of times, the new Lippert 380073 Kwikee Service Kit For Revolution Step Motor has held up exceptionally well. The steps operate with consistent speed and reliability, a stark contrast to their previous performance.

Durability has been excellent so far. There are no signs of premature wear, no odd noises, and the motor continues to perform as expected. Maintenance on this type of component is generally minimal; regular cleaning of the step mechanism itself is more crucial than direct care for the motor.

Compared to my previous experience with the original motor, which began to degrade after several years, this replacement unit feels like a significant upgrade in terms of immediate performance and, hopefully, longevity. It certainly outperforms any budget, non-OEM alternatives I might have considered in terms of guaranteed fit and function.

Breaking Down the Features of Lippert 380073 Kwikee Service Kit For Revolution Step Motor

Specifications

The Lippert 380073 Kwikee Service Kit For Revolution Step Motor is specifically designed as a direct replacement for the Revolution Step motor used in Kwikee power step systems. While exact electrical specifications like voltage and amperage aren’t detailed in the provided product description, it’s understood to be a 12V DC motor, standard for RV applications. The kit’s primary purpose is to provide a functional motor unit that integrates seamlessly with the existing step assembly, including its linkage and control systems.

The crucial specification is its direct compatibility with the Kwikee Revolution Step, identified by part number 1510000147. This ensures that the motor’s shaft, mounting points, and electrical connectors will mate correctly without the need for modifications. This compatibility is paramount for a repair part, saving significant time and potential frustration during installation.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its main job, the Lippert 380073 Kwikee Service Kit For Revolution Step Motor excels. It reliably retracts and extends the RV steps with the swiftness and quiet operation characteristic of a well-functioning power step. The motor’s torque is sufficient to smoothly operate the steps under normal load conditions, providing a secure entry and exit point for the RV.

Its primary strength lies in its direct replacement functionality. It performs exactly as the original motor should, restoring the steps to their intended operational state. I haven’t identified any significant weaknesses; its performance is tied directly to the quality of the overall step mechanism, and the motor itself appears to be up to the task. It meets and exceeds the expectations set by the degraded performance of the unit it replaced.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this service kit, primarily consisting of the motor unit, is focused on function over form. It’s built to be a robust, utilitarian component. The materials used appear to be standard for automotive-grade electric motors, suggesting good resilience to vibrations and the typical environmental exposures found on an RV.

Ergonomically, the “design” is experienced during installation. The motor features standard mounting points and electrical connectors that align perfectly with the Kwikee Revolution Step system. There’s no “handling” of the motor in day-to-day use, but its seamless integration into the step mechanism makes the entire system feel user-friendly. The markings on the motor, if any, are functional and aimed at proper alignment during installation rather than user interface.

Durability & Maintenance

The likely lifespan of a component like the Lippert 380073 Kwikee Service Kit For Revolution Step Motor is generally measured in years of regular use. Given that it’s an OEM part from a reputable manufacturer like Lippert, one can reasonably expect it to last several years before showing signs of wear, assuming the rest of the step assembly is well-maintained.

Maintenance for the motor itself is minimal; it’s largely a sealed unit. The primary recommendation is to keep the step mechanism clean and lubricated, which indirectly benefits the motor by reducing strain. Potential failure points for any electric motor include brush wear, internal bearing issues, or electrical component failure due to heat or moisture ingress. However, I haven’t observed any such issues with this unit.

Accessories and Customization Options

As a specific service kit for a motor replacement, the Lippert 380073 Kwikee Service Kit For Revolution Step Motor typically includes the motor itself and, depending on the exact packaging, may come with mounting hardware or basic wiring connectors. It’s not a product designed for extensive customization, but rather for a direct, plug-and-play replacement.

Its compatibility is limited to the specific Kwikee Revolution Step models it’s designed for, such as the Kwikee Part Number 1510000147. While you could theoretically adapt it, it’s highly recommended to use it only as intended. No aftermarket accessories are typically associated with this specific component, as its role is internal to the step assembly.

Pros and Cons of **Lippert 380073 Kwikee Service Kit For Revolution Step Motor**

Who Should Buy **Lippert 380073 Kwikee Service Kit For Revolution Step Motor**?

This service kit is ideal for RV owners who are experiencing degraded performance from their Kwikee Revolution Power Steps, specifically issues related to the motor. If your steps are slow, hesitant, or no longer deploying reliably, this is the part you need. It’s suited for DIY-inclined individuals or those who work with RV repair shops.

Anyone looking for a universal motor or a “hacky” solution should probably skip this. If you own a different brand of RV steps or an older Kwikee model that isn’t the Revolution type, this kit will not be compatible. For those who require a completely new step assembly due to extensive damage, this motor replacement would not be sufficient.

A must-have complementary item is a good set of tools, including a socket set, screwdrivers, and potentially a wiring stripper or crimper if connectors need replacement. Ensuring the rest of the step mechanism is clean and lubricated will also help prolong the life of the new motor.

Conclusion on **Lippert 380073 Kwikee Service Kit For Revolution Step Motor**

The Lippert 380073 Kwikee Service Kit For Revolution Step Motor is an essential and highly effective replacement part for owners of compatible Kwikee Revolution Power Steps. It delivers precisely what it promises: restoring the full, reliable functionality of your RV’s entry steps. The performance improvement was immediate and significant, making the investment well worthwhile.

Considering its OEM status and the direct restoration of a critical RV function, the price, while not insignificant, represents good value for money. It’s far more economical than a complete step replacement and guarantees compatibility. I would absolutely recommend this service kit to any RV owner experiencing motor-related issues with their Kwikee Revolution steps. If your steps are showing their age, this is the most straightforward and dependable way to bring them back to life.