Let’s Talk About Lippert 379400 Kwikee Round Magnetic Door Switch With 3/4″ Core
The Lippert 379400 Kwikee Round Magnetic Door Switch With 3/4″ Core is a seemingly simple component, but its importance in the RV and mobile home world cannot be overstated. This switch is the unsung hero that ensures your Kwikee electric steps deploy and retract as they should, providing safe and convenient entry and exit. The manufacturer, Lippert, is a well-known and trusted name in the RV industry, so expectations are generally high for their products. This review delves into my experience with this switch, exploring its design, functionality, and overall value.
My RV’s Kwikee steps had become unreliable; sometimes they’d deploy, sometimes they wouldn’t, and occasionally they’d retract unexpectedly while I was still on them! The culprit was a faulty door switch, leading me on a quest to find a reliable replacement. After some research, the Lippert 379400 model seemed to be the most commonly recommended and readily available option.
Upon unboxing, the switch felt solid, despite its small size. The white plastic housing felt durable, and the included hinge mount was a welcome bonus. The overall build quality appeared decent, definitely better than the cheap aftermarket alternatives I’d seen online.
I considered a generic, non-Lippert switch, but the mixed reviews and potential for compatibility issues steered me towards the Lippert product, even with the slightly higher price tag. I also looked at another Lippert switch that had different mounting options, but the 379400 model was the closest match to my existing setup. I was cautiously optimistic that this switch would solve my step problems, and eager to get it installed and tested.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lippert 379400 Kwikee Round Magnetic Door Switch With 3/4″ Core to the Test
First Use Experience
Installation was surprisingly straightforward; the 3/4″ core size was a perfect fit for the existing hole in my door frame. The two screws provided secured the switch firmly in place, and the hinge mount was easy to attach to the door. Once installed, the steps deployed immediately upon opening the door – a promising start!
The switch performed flawlessly throughout my initial weekend camping trip. Rain or shine, the steps extended and retracted consistently. I no longer worried about getting stranded with steps that wouldn’t deploy or retract.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of regular use, the Lippert 379400 Kwikee Round Magnetic Door Switch continues to perform reliably. There are no signs of wear and tear, and the white plastic housing still looks new. I have cleaned the area around the switch a few times, but no special maintenance has been required.
This switch has significantly outperformed the original, failing switch. I have complete confidence in its ability to control the steps consistently. It provides peace of mind knowing that the steps will function correctly every time I open or close the RV door.
Breaking Down the Features of Lippert 379400 Kwikee Round Magnetic Door Switch With 3/4″ Core
Specifications
Core Diameter: The Lippert 379400 features a 3/4″ diameter core, which is a standard size for many Kwikee step systems. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of RV and mobile home doors.
Function: This is a magnetic switch, meaning it relies on a magnetic field to detect the opening and closing of the door. This simple design contributes to its reliability and longevity.
Mounting: The switch mounts into the door frame using two screws. A hinge mount is also included for added stability and versatility.
Wiring: The switch has two lead wires for easy connection to the existing wiring harness. The wiring is straightforward, making installation relatively simple for most RV owners.
Color: The switch is white, which blends in well with most RV door frames. This ensures a clean and unobtrusive appearance.
These specifications are crucial because they determine the switch’s compatibility, ease of installation, and overall reliability. A properly sized and functioning switch is essential for the safe and convenient operation of electric RV steps.
Performance & Functionality
The Lippert 379400 performs its job admirably, reliably activating and deactivating the Kwikee steps. The magnetic sensor is sensitive enough to detect even slight movements of the door, ensuring consistent operation. The switch is easy to install and requires no special tools or expertise.
The switch’s main strength is its reliability. Its simplicity is also a strength, making it less prone to failure than more complex electronic components. One potential weakness is that the plastic housing could be susceptible to damage from extreme temperatures or physical impact.
The Lippert 379400 exceeds expectations; it addresses the original problem of unreliable steps and provides peace of mind during travel. It’s a simple but effective solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lippert 379400 features a simple and functional design. The materials used are durable enough for the intended purpose. The switch is lightweight and doesn’t add any noticeable bulk to the door frame.
The switch is incredibly user-friendly; installation is straightforward, and there is no learning curve. Its unobtrusive design ensures it doesn’t interfere with the normal operation of the door.
Durability & Maintenance
The switch should last for several years with proper care and maintenance. Regular cleaning to remove dirt and debris will help extend its lifespan. The switch is relatively easy to replace if it eventually fails.
No specialized tools are required for repair; the two mounting screws and the wiring are easily accessible. This makes maintenance and replacement relatively simple tasks for most RV owners.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lippert 379400 Kwikee Round Magnetic Door Switch comes with a hinge mount to provide various installation options. There aren’t any other customization options or accessories available for this particular part. However, it is compatible with any Kwikee step system that uses a 3/4″ round magnetic door switch.
The universal compatibility with existing Kwikee step systems is a major advantage. This eliminates the need for complex modifications or additional accessories.
Pros and Cons of Lippert 379400 Kwikee Round Magnetic Door Switch With 3/4″ Core
Pros
- Reliable and consistent performance ensures steps deploy and retract as expected.
- Easy installation makes it a DIY-friendly replacement part for most RV owners.
- Universal compatibility with Kwikee step systems makes it a versatile option.
- Durable construction should provide years of reliable service.
- Affordable price makes it a cost-effective solution for malfunctioning steps.
Cons
- Plastic housing could be vulnerable to damage in extreme conditions.
- Limited customization options; it’s a basic, functional component.
Who Should Buy Lippert 379400 Kwikee Round Magnetic Door Switch With 3/4″ Core?
The Lippert 379400 Kwikee Round Magnetic Door Switch is perfect for RV owners experiencing intermittent or complete failure of their Kwikee electric steps. It’s also suitable for mobile home owners utilizing Kwikee steps. Anyone comfortable with basic electrical wiring and using a screwdriver can install this switch.
Those seeking a high-end, aesthetically pleasing component with advanced features should skip this product; it is a basic, functional replacement part. A multimeter to test wiring continuity might be a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Lippert 379400 Kwikee Round Magnetic Door Switch With 3/4″ Core
The Lippert 379400 Kwikee Round Magnetic Door Switch With 3/4″ Core is a reliable and cost-effective solution for restoring functionality to malfunctioning Kwikee electric steps. Its easy installation, universal compatibility, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for any RV or mobile home owner.
The price of $64.49 is justified given the product’s reliability and ease of use. It’s a small price to pay for the convenience and safety of functional electric steps.
I would definitely recommend the Lippert 379400 switch to anyone experiencing issues with their Kwikee steps. Don’t let unreliable steps ruin your next adventure – replace that faulty switch with a Lippert 379400 and get back on the road with confidence!