Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch Review

Let’s Talk About Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch

The Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch might not sound like the sexiest piece of gear, but for RV owners, it’s a crucial component. This little switch is the unsung hero that ensures your Kwikee electric steps deploy and retract reliably, preventing embarrassing stumbles and potentially serious injuries. It’s a simple device with a simple purpose, but when it fails, you’ll quickly appreciate its importance.

My journey to the Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch began with the all-too-familiar scenario of RV ownership: something broke. Specifically, my Kwikee steps decided to remain stubbornly retracted, leaving me stranded a good foot above the ground. After some troubleshooting, I traced the issue back to the door switch; a common failure point in these systems.

Upon receiving the Lippert switch, my initial impression was of a no-frills, utilitarian component. It’s lightweight, made of durable plastic, and appears well-sealed against the elements. It’s not glamorous, but it looks like it can handle the rigors of RV life. I’ve worked with aftermarket switches before, and while cheaper, they often lacked the robust feel of this OEM Lippert replacement.

Comparing it to universal plunger switches I’ve used in the past, the Lippert switch has a noticeably sturdier build quality and specific blade-style connectors. This eliminates the need for splicing and ensures a more reliable connection. Universal options may be cheaper, but the time spent modifying them and the risk of future failures make the Lippert switch a more appealing choice. My first thought was, “This looks like a proper fix, not a band-aid.”

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

First Use Experience

The first test came during installation, which I performed in my RV’s driveway, a gravelly, dusty environment. The switch was simple enough to install, requiring only a screwdriver and a few minutes. Once installed, the steps sprung to life immediately.

The performance was flawless. Even after repeated opening and closing of the door, the steps deployed and retracted smoothly and reliably. This instantaneous and consistent action was a welcome change from the intermittent behavior of the old, failing switch. The relief of having fully functional steps again was immense, especially after a week of clambering in and out of the RV like a mountain goat.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including a long road trip through varying weather conditions, the Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch has held up admirably. There are no signs of wear and tear, and the switch continues to operate flawlessly. It’s been exposed to rain, dust, and even a bit of mud, and hasn’t skipped a beat.

Maintenance has been minimal. I’ve simply wiped it down with a damp cloth occasionally to remove any accumulated grime. This is a huge advantage over some other RV components that require constant attention. It has exceeded my expectations, restoring confidence in my Kwikee step system. In comparison, my previous aftermarket attempts failed within weeks, proving the value of using a genuine Lippert part.

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

Specifications

The Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch is specifically designed as a replacement for Kwikee electric steps. It features two blade-style connectors for easy installation. The switch is actuated by the door closing and depressing the plunger, triggering the step motor.

These specifications are vital because they ensure compatibility and proper function with Kwikee step systems. The blade-style connectors make for a secure and reliable electrical connection, crucial in a mobile environment. The plunger mechanism needs to be robust enough to withstand repeated use and exposure to the elements, and the Lippert design seems to achieve that.

Performance & Functionality

The Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch performs its job flawlessly. Its primary function is to reliably signal the step motor to deploy and retract the steps when the door opens and closes, and it does this consistently. There are no delays, no hesitation, just smooth, dependable operation.

Its strengths lie in its simplicity and reliability. It’s a basic component, but it performs its task perfectly. There’s not much room for improvement, although perhaps a slightly more weather-resistant housing could be beneficial. Overall, it exceeded my expectations by providing a consistent and dependable solution to my faulty step problem.

Design & Ergonomics

The Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch features a simple and functional design. The materials used are durable plastic, which feels robust and weather-resistant. The weight is negligible, which is typical for this type of switch.

The switch is user-friendly, requiring minimal technical skill to install. There is no learning curve; simply remove the old switch and replace it with the new one. The blade-style connectors make the process straightforward, minimizing the risk of incorrect wiring.

Durability & Maintenance

The Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch appears to be built to last. Its durable plastic construction can withstand exposure to the elements and the stresses of repeated use. With minimal maintenance, I expect it to provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is incredibly simple: occasional cleaning with a damp cloth is all that’s needed. The design is straightforward, so there isn’t much that can go wrong.This ease of maintenance is a significant advantage, especially for RV owners who want to spend more time enjoying their travels and less time on repairs.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch is a direct replacement part and does not typically require any accessories. However, some RV owners may choose to add a sealant or protectant to the switch housing to further enhance its weather resistance. It is specifically designed for Kwikee step systems, limiting its compatibility with other brands.

While there aren’t customization options for the switch itself, ensuring proper wiring and fuse protection for the Kwikee step system is crucial for its longevity. Consider using dielectric grease on the connectors to prevent corrosion and ensure a reliable connection.

Pros and Cons of Lippert 379407 Kwikee Pleated Plunger Door Switch