Aluminum platform steps

[HandyDan]

This is an aluminum platform that goes to an office trailer.  A bolt on hand rail had already been removed when I took the picture.  I want to make one that folds up/disassembles for my motorhome.  It would be a lot safer and easier for my wife and me to get in and out of the MH when we are parked for an extended stay.  I would not make the top platform so big, maybe a fourth the size of this one and I would put it perpendicular to the MH instead of parallel.  The handrail is a big must on it.  I have been surfing the internet to try to find something similar that might already be on the market.  So far I have found something similar in steel and one in fiberglass.  The steel one didn't fold up and the fiberglass weighed 90 lbs.  Not what I'm wanting.  Has anyone seen something similar or have any plans for such a thing?


Here is the closest thing I have found.  It would do, but really not what I'm looking for.  All aluminum would be better. This one is steel frame with wood steps.

[ClydesdaleKevin]

I haven't seen anything like it, but you are a very smart man!  Draw up some plans (design your own) and have a metal shop make it for you.  Shouldn't even be all that expensive depending on the cost of materials, as long as you design it.  If you want it to fold easily and set up easily, you'll have to make a mock up out of wood or something to make sure it works.  If you don't mind bolting things together on arrival, it would be super simple.


Kev

[ClydesdaleKevin]

Also, look into marine applications...I'm sure there has to be steps and platforms made to board a boat at a dockside if the dock is lower than the gunwales of said boat.


Kev

[HandyDan]

This isn't exactly what I was looking for, but it will do.  A little pricey, but, if I built what I wanted, it would probably be close to the same.  This supposedly will support 300lbs and according to the manufacturer, will fit in a space 27" x 28" and at least 6" in height to store in the folded position.   I don't know how much it weighs.  It is available from Camping World for approximately $300.  It is made by Stromberg Carlson.   The platform is 28" high and the handrail can go on either side of the steps.  My threshold is 29" high so this will work.  They also make a two step version.  Supposedly, they have one in stock at the Springfield, MO store so I am going to go take a look in the near future.  This would help my wife (not to mention myself) get in and out of the MH much easier.  Last year she fell on the fold out steps while getting out. Don't won't that to happen again. Luckily a friend was standing in front of her and caught her before any damage could be done.     

[ClydesdaleKevin]

Wow!  I'm glad your friend was there to catch her!  Injuries are no joke as we get older.

Looks pretty well made.  Although, before you buy it look into the marine applications...you might find something better that is lighter and foldable.

Kev

[Shalydra]

Nice finds. I'm getting ready to build something similar out of 4x4 and plywood scraps. Main difference is mine will be a ramp. my chair won't fit in the rig, but my knees don't like steps.

Upgrading to something lightweight is low priority, I can always get someone to move it for me if it's too heavy to lift on my own.

But when I'm tired and wandering the interweb making future plans, i droll over the products from this place:
http://www.rollaramp.com/store.asp?pid=30185&catid=19991

Falls can be scary, prevention is priceless.