T@B door step

tabasco_jim

Why am I seeing so many Tab owners using other entry steps and not the factory step?

TerryV6

Mine works fine...

Sharon_is_SAM

I think the older Dutchman Tabs did not have steps.  Also, if a side tent is attached, the skirting does not allow you to deploy the standard steps, so owners bring portable steps.  In addition, some forum members have reported their concern of the fatigue of the metal with use by larger, heavier campers.

Sharon_is_SAM

Also, the Outback model step is a bit higher than the other model Tabs, so some like a shorter entry step.

tabasco_jim

Sam... larger heavy campers as in personal weight of said campers I am guessing?

Sharon_is_SAM

Someone also showed a method using 2 chocks to support the steps to prevent wear and tear.  

tabasco_jim

I saw that post but didn't thank that was necessary. My wife and me weigh less than 155 lbs each. Just trying to see what to expected out of our new T@B. I'm trying not to offend anybody here. Just planning  ahead.

 

Ramrod

Seems sturdy enough.

Nomad

Mine's plenty sturdy BUT every so often the bolts work loose in spite of the lock washers and it will feel a little spongy. They're easy enough to tighten though.

Ratkity

Despite being 5'6", I need a step to reach the spare from the Yakima rack I installed on the T@bitha, even though the basket is fairly low on the rails. I also use the step when the tent is connected because the skirt doesn't allow the regular step won't deploy (as stated above).

Norbert1223

I use another step because I have dogs and the little factory step does not work for them, has nothing to do with my weight or size.  

tabasco_jim

Great answers! Thanks guys and gals.

Verna

Nothing wrong with the original step. Sunny Day bumps her right rear knee joint on the step and it is very painful to her (think metal bumping into your knee). The extras portable step is less expensive than Vet bills. 

lapowers57

I am 6'1" and a little north of 200 pounds  I have some concerns about the step, especially if I ever misstep and really come down hard on it.  I will look for the post about the chocks and also keep an eye on the fastners.

ericnliz

lapowers, I am 6', and well over 200#. I haven't had an issue, but if the chocks make you feel safer, by all means, go for it. Just be careful out there, and happy trails. 

JandJ92010

I've found that the factory step works quite well going in, but coming back out it's a bit shallow and I need to turn my foot when I step on it. A bit awkward. That's when a portable step would be an advantage.

Fatman1966

My unit is in order so.... What is the size Length x Width of the step. Is is curved? I can remember ever paying attendtion. I'm wanting to make myself a non slip type mat for the step. 

Verna

Fatman1966 said:

My unit is in order so.... What is the size Length x Width of the step. Is is curved? I can remember ever paying attendtion. I'm wanting to make myself a non slip type mat for the step. 

You can get an inexpensive wrap-around rug that is made for the step. Camping World, Amazon, etc. it connects via a metal strap on the underside and is slip proof and durable. 

Fatman1966

I've seen those. Would it be the one listed as 23 sizing? 

Verna

Measure first. 23" is foo long. Mine was 18"

Fatman1966

Thanks Verna

Ratkity

Love my wrap around cover for the step. Forget the springs and taking it off. I zip-tied that sucker on and it is one of the best mods evah.

Sharon_is_SAM

@Fatman1966
Fatman1966 said:

My unit is in order so.... What is the size Length x Width of the step. Is is curved? I can remember ever paying attendtion. I'm wanting to make myself a non slip type mat for the step. 

Found this from previous thread:  It's a standard RV step, 8" deep, 20" wide. 8" from the ground when out, and about 10" from the step to the threshold. Sticks out about 10" when deployed.