From Curiosity to Confidence: My Lippert Kwikee Rectangular Magnetic Door Switch And Power Switch Review
The world of RV and vehicle maintenance often throws up the need for specific, seemingly niche components. When the entry door on my personal camper van decided to exhibit a mind of its own, refusing to signal its open or closed status reliably, the search for a solution began. This led me to the Lippert Kwikee Rectangular Magnetic Door Switch And Power Switch. Lippert, a name synonymous with RV components, promised a straightforward fix. Initially, my impression was that of a utilitarian, no-frills part. It felt solid enough, a simple black rectangular unit designed for function over form. My only brief consideration was a generic, unbranded alternative, but the confidence in a known manufacturer like Lippert swayed the decision. This replacement part offered a flicker of hope for a quiet, functioning entry.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lippert Kwikee Rectangular Magnetic Door Switch And Power Switch to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing ground was practical and immediate: the main entry door of my camper van. The installation was straightforward, a direct replacement for the old, failing unit. Conditions were fairly standard for vehicle use – sun, a bit of dust, and the occasional light moisture from a misty morning.
The initial performance was exactly what was needed; the door sensor now correctly signaled when the door was shut and when it was open. There was no significant learning curve, as the function of a magnetic door switch is inherently simple. My only minor surprise was how abruptly the old switch had failed, making me realize the importance of these small, often-overlooked components.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use, this door switch has held up remarkably well. The constant opening and closing of the camper van door haven’t shown any signs of wear on the switch itself. There have been no cracks, no stiffness in the magnetic contact, and its signaling remains as reliable as day one.
Maintenance has been virtually non-existent; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is all it ever needed. Compared to the previous, unnamed brand that failed prematurely, this Lippert unit feels significantly more robust. It’s a testament to the fact that sometimes, investing in a reputable manufacturer for these critical parts pays off in the long run.
Breaking Down the Features of Lippert Kwikee Rectangular Magnetic Door Switch And Power Switch
Specifications
This particular model from Lippert is a small rectangular magnetic door and power switch. It comes in a black finish and is designed for surface mount applications. The description mentions various configurations including normally closed (white) and normally open (black) options, as well as plated plunger variants.
For this review, I focused on the standard black, rectangular, surface-mount unit. The surface mount design simplifies installation, requiring only a few screws and wire connections. Its compact size means it doesn’t detract from the aesthetics of the door frame or jamb.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of this magnetic door switch is to accurately detect whether the door is closed or open. The Lippert Kwikee Rectangular Magnetic Door Switch And Power Switch performs this function flawlessly. Its magnetic coupling ensures a consistent and reliable signal for whatever system it’s connected to, typically an RV’s step deployment or internal lighting.
Its main strength lies in its simplicity and dependable operation. There isn’t much to go wrong with this kind of mechanism, and Lippert has executed it well. It meets expectations precisely, offering a no-fuss solution to a common problem.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of this switch is what you’d expect from Lippert: functional and durable. It’s made of a sturdy plastic that feels like it can withstand the rigors of daily use. The black color is unobtrusive and blends well with most interior or exterior door frames.
Ergonomically, it’s designed for installation rather than active user interaction, so its “feel” is secondary. The surface mount design means it sits cleanly on the mounting surface without being obtrusive. The magnetic connection is strong enough to reliably engage even with a slight misalignment.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction, this magnetic switch is likely to last for many years under normal operating conditions for a vehicle. It’s not an item that experiences significant mechanical stress. Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving keeping the contact surfaces clean of dust or debris.
There are no obvious points of failure in its design. Unlike mechanical switches with moving parts that can wear out, this relies on simple magnetism. This inherent simplicity is a key factor in its expected longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lippert Kwikee Rectangular Magnetic Door Switch And Power Switch itself is the core component; it doesn’t typically come with extensive accessories. Installation usually requires basic wiring tools and fasteners. The product description hints at different configurations like normally closed and normally open options, allowing for some customization based on the electrical system it’s connecting to.
This adaptability to different system needs is its primary form of “customization.” It’s designed to integrate with existing RV or vehicle electrical setups, making it a versatile replacement part.
Pros and Cons of Lippert Kwikee Rectangular Magnetic Door Switch And Power Switch
Pros
- Reliable operation: Accurately detects door open/closed status consistently.
- Durable construction: Made from sturdy materials suitable for vehicle environments.
- Easy installation: Surface mount design simplifies the replacement process.
- Reputable manufacturer: Lippert is a well-known brand for RV components.
- Direct replacement functionality: Solves common issues with RV door sensors.
Cons
- Limited aesthetic options: Primarily functional in design, not decorative.
- May require specific wiring knowledge: Understanding normally closed vs. normally open is crucial.
Who Should Buy Lippert Kwikee Rectangular Magnetic Door Switch And Power Switch?
This magnetic door switch is ideal for RV owners, van builders, and anyone with a vehicle that utilizes door sensors for automated functions. If you’re experiencing issues with your RV’s automatic steps not deploying or retracting correctly, or interior lights not functioning as expected when the door opens, this part is a strong contender. It’s also perfect for DIYers undertaking custom vehicle builds who need a reliable door status indicator.
Individuals who need highly decorative or aesthetically integrated solutions might look elsewhere, as this unit is purely functional. However, for a dependable, no-nonsense replacement or addition, it’s an excellent choice. Basic wiring knowledge is beneficial for installation, especially understanding whether a normally closed or normally open configuration is required for your specific system.
Conclusion on Lippert Kwikee Rectangular Magnetic Door Switch And Power Switch
The Lippert Kwikee Rectangular Magnetic Door Switch And Power Switch delivers precisely what it promises: reliable door sensing for vehicle applications. For its price of $51.89, it offers a durable and effective solution that restores the functionality of automated systems tied to door position. The build quality from Lippert is evident, and its straightforward surface mount design makes installation manageable for most DIYers.
I would absolutely recommend this product to RV owners or vehicle modifiers facing issues with their door sensors. It’s a practical, robust component that, while not flashy, performs its critical function with unwavering consistency. If you need a dependable way to signal your vehicle’s door status, this unit is a smart investment that will likely serve you well for a long time.