Building Sturdy Truck Camper Steps: A Diy Guide

how to make truck camper steps

There are many ways to build truck camper steps. Some people prefer to purchase pre-made steps, while others opt for a DIY approach. For those who want to build their own steps, there are a variety of materials and methods that can be used. One common method is to use wood, such as pine or plywood, to create a simple step that can be stowed away inside the camper when not in use. Another option is to use metal or aluminium to create a more sturdy and permanent set of steps. Some people also choose to add features such as non-slip grip tape, adjustable legs, or hinges that allow the steps to fold away. Building your own truck camper steps can be a cost-effective and customizable solution, but it's important to prioritize safety and stability to avoid injuries.

Characteristics Values
Materials Wood, aluminium, steel, plastic, pine, plywood, rubber
Number of Steps 1-6
Step Width 24"
Step Depth 6" or 8"
Step Height 8"
Step Length 20"
Adjustable Yes
Portable Yes
Foldable Yes
Glow-in-the-Dark Yes
Lockable Yes

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Making wooden steps

Planning and Materials

First, you need to determine the height of the steps. Measure the distance from the ground to the floor of the camper. This will be the total rise of the steps. Decide on the number of steps you want and divide the total rise by the number of steps to get the height of each step. The ideal step height is around 7 to 8 inches.

For the materials, you will need:

  • Wood for the stringers (sides) and treads: You can use Douglas fir or pine wood of appropriate dimensions. Calculate the length of the stringers based on the height of the steps and the desired angle of the stairs. The treads should be wide enough for comfortable footing, typically around 10 to 24 inches.
  • Fasteners: Decking screws or brad nails, depending on your tools.
  • Wood glue: Choose an outdoor-suitable wood adhesive.
  • Sandpaper: Medium grit sandpaper will help smooth out any rough surfaces.
  • Finish: Use an outdoor paint or polyurethane to protect the wood. You can also add non-slip grip tape to the treads for added safety.
  • Tools: This includes a saw, drill, stapler, sanders, and any other standard woodworking tools.

Cutting and Assembly

Cut the wood to size according to your measurements and plans. You will need two stringers (sides) and multiple treads, depending on the number of steps. Cut any additional features, such as handholds or curved edges, using a hole saw or an oscillating tool. Smooth out any rough edges with sandpaper or a router.

Before assembling, do a dry fit to ensure all the pieces fit together properly. Apply wood glue to the joints and use fasteners to secure the treads to the stringers. Leave the top tread for last, ensuring the supports are spaced correctly to avoid blocking the handholds.

Finishing

Sand the entire structure to smooth out any imperfections and remove excess glue. Wipe away any dust or debris before applying the finish. You can use paint or polyurethane to protect the wood and improve its appearance. Apply several coats as per the manufacturer's instructions, sanding lightly between coats.

Finally, add any additional features, such as non-slip grip tape or neoprene rubber strips to the treads to improve traction and stability.

Your wooden truck camper steps are now ready to be installed and used! This project can be customized to your specific needs and preferences, so feel free to adjust the design as needed.

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Using a step ladder

Choosing the Right Step Ladder

Select a step ladder that is sturdy, safe, and the right height for your truck camper. You can choose from a variety of options available in the market, such as the Little Giant Step Ladder or the Torklift Original GlowStep. The Little Giant Step Ladder is a popular choice among truck campers as it offers tough stability and has wide steps. The Torklift Original GlowStep, on the other hand, is made of aircraft-grade aluminium and stainless steel, ensuring durability. It also features a unique SureGrip anti-slip tread and self-illuminating strips that glow in the dark for added safety.

Modifying the Step Ladder

If you want to get more creative, you can modify your step ladder to better suit your needs. For example, you can add an eye-hook attachment to the top step of the ladder to secure it to the camper, as suggested by Charles Coushaine. This ensures that the steps are securely fastened and can support a significant amount of weight. You can also add a stainless steel rod across the steel supports for added strength and stability.

Adjusting the Height

When using a step ladder for your truck camper, it is crucial to adjust it to the correct height. The ideal height of the steps will depend on the height of your truck and camper setup. As mentioned by Ron Richardson, the rise calculation is the distance from the ground to the floor of the camper. Divide this distance by the number of steps you want to determine the height of each step. For example, if the distance from the ground to the camper floor is 47 inches, and you want six steps, each step should be around 7 7/8 inches high.

Storage and Portability

One of the benefits of using a step ladder for your truck camper is that it can be easily stored and transported. Look for step ladders that are designed to be compact and foldable, making them easy to store inside your camper when not in use. Additionally, consider the weight of the step ladder, especially if you plan to carry it with you on your travels. Aluminium step ladders tend to be lighter and easier to handle.

Safety Considerations

When using a step ladder as your truck camper steps, always prioritise safety. Ensure that the steps are stable and securely attached to the camper to prevent accidents. Consider adding non-slip surfaces or treads to the steps to provide better traction, especially in wet or muddy conditions. Additionally, if you have children or pets travelling with you, consider installing a protective barrier, such as the SafeStep pet safety barrier, to prevent them from falling between the steps.

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Installing GlowSteps

Preparation:

Before beginning the installation, ensure you have the necessary tools and materials. These include a full set of end wrenches and/or socket wrenches, with most hardware being 7/16, 1/2, or 9/16. Ratcheting closed-end wrenches are particularly useful for working in confined spaces. Additionally, you will need two automotive scissor jacks, a furniture dolly, plywood, and any other materials you deem necessary for the installation.

Step 1: Removing Existing Steps:

If you have existing steps, start by removing them from the brackets. This will create space for installing the new GlowSteps.

Step 2: Separating the GlowSteps Pieces:

The GlowSteps come in two main pieces: the frame and the steps themselves. If you are working with an assistant, you can proceed with both pieces as they are shipped, bolted together. However, if you are working alone, you will need to separate the steps from the frame. Use the appropriate wrenches to unbolt the steps from the frame carefully.

Step 3: Lifting the Frame:

To lift the metal frame into place, you can use the scissor jacks. Place the jacks on a plywood platform on top of the furniture dolly. This setup will provide stability and maneuverability. Cover the jacks with another piece of plywood to create a secure base for the frame.

Step 4: Positioning the Frame:

Use the furniture dolly to roll the scissor jack assembly under the RV. Slowly raise the jacks to lift the frame into position between the mounting brackets. If your driveway or surface is slanted, adjust the jacks to compensate for the incline and ensure the frame is level.

Step 5: Securing the Frame:

Before bolting the frame into the brackets, check the fit. If there is a significant gap, use the spacer plates included with your GlowSteps. These spacer plates are a quarter of an inch wide and have two-sided tape for easy placement. You may only need one spacer plate, depending on the gap. Once the frame is positioned correctly, tighten the mounting bolts to secure it in place.

Step 6: Reattaching the Steps:

After the frame is securely bolted into the brackets, you can reattach the steps to the frame assembly. Carefully follow the instructions provided with your GlowSteps to ensure a proper fit.

Additional Tips:

The installation process may vary slightly depending on the specific model and brand of GlowSteps you have purchased. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for detailed steps specific to your product. Additionally, take your time during the installation, working slowly and carefully to ensure a safe and secure installation.

With these steps, you can install GlowSteps for your truck camper, making it easier and safer to enter and exit your RV or trailer.

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Adding adjustable feet

The All Terrain Landing Gear adjustable feet are included with the Torklift SMARTSTEP® GlowStep Stow N' Go steps, which are designed to be easily stored and deployed. The steps snap securely into place with a nylon retainer system, preventing movement during transit. The steps can be mounted to the bumper or below the door of your truck camper, keeping the interior clean and dirt-free.

The All Terrain Landing Gear adjustable feet are also available as an accessory for the Torklift SMARTSTEP® GlowStep series. This series includes 2 to 6 steps, with the option to add or remove steps using the Add-a-Step feature. The steps are lockable to prevent theft and come with a Legendary Lifetime Warranty.

If you're looking for a more custom solution, you can also consider adding adjustable feet commonly used for furniture levelling. This option provides flexibility in choosing the type of adjustable feet that best suit your needs and the design of your camper steps.

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Preventing theft

Locks and Keys

One of the most common ways to prevent theft is to use locks and keys. Always lock your camper when you are away from it and, if possible, keep the keys with you. You can also consider changing the locks and getting new keys, as many campers use the same type of keys. Additionally, you can install a keyless lock with a keypad and a key fob for easy access.

Hide Valuables

Make sure to hide all your valuables and not leave them in plain sight, either in the camper or in the truck. This includes wallets, phones, GPS devices, and other electronics. You can also cover items in the back seat of the truck with black lawn bags to keep them out of sight.

Parking

When parking your camper, choose well-lit and highly visible areas with a lot of foot traffic. Avoid parking in isolated or unlit areas. If possible, park near other people or vehicles, especially in a campground where fellow campers can keep an eye on your camper. Reversing close to a wall or pole can also prevent theft by making it difficult for the camper door to open.

Security Systems and Alarms

Consider installing a security system or alarm in your camper. You can opt for a basic alarm system or a more advanced system with window break sensors and door sensors. There are also alarm systems that can be connected to your smartphone, allowing you to monitor your camper remotely.

Dogs

Having a dog in your camper can be an excellent deterrent to potential thieves. Dogs will bark and alert you if someone is approaching or trying to enter the camper. Smaller dogs can also be left inside the camper when you are away for short periods.

Motion Sensor Lights

Install motion sensor lights above the camper door or around the camper. These lights will turn on when motion is detected, potentially scaring off intruders and alerting you or others to their presence.

Trailer Coupler Lock

Use a trailer coupler lock to secure your trailer coupler and prevent it from being attached to a hitch ball. The PACLOCK High-Security Trailer Coupler Lock is a heavy-duty option that can provide excellent protection.

Hitch Pin Lock

A hitch pin lock secures the trailer hitch's drawbar into the towing vehicle's hitch receiver, making it more difficult for thieves to attach the trailer to another vehicle.

Wheel Locks

Prevent your trailer's wheels from rolling by using wheel locks or clamps. Options include wheel clamps, wheel boots, and hardened chains. These devices make it harder for thieves to move or tow your trailer away.

GPS Trackers

In case your camper is stolen, installing a GPS tracker can help you locate and recover it. Options include RV GPS trackers or devices like Apple AirTags. Make sure to hide the tracker well to avoid detection and potential removal by thieves.

Additional Tips

  • Always lock entry and exterior storage doors, close all windows, and lower the blinds when leaving your camper.
  • Use a fuel cut-off switch or a hidden battery kill switch to prevent the engine from starting.
  • Install a kill switch across the coil for the truck.
  • Use Torklift products like tie-downs, Wobble Stoppers, bumpers, and locks for added security.
  • Keep the camper connected to utilities when possible.
  • Drop the camper's legs to add weight on the jacks and make it more difficult to move.
  • Use a paddle lock on the hitch.
  • Chain the camper to a tree or pole, and lock it with a padlock.
  • Consider getting a dog, especially a large breed, as they can be an effective deterrent.

Remember, there is no guaranteed way to completely prevent theft. However, by following these tips and using a combination of these security measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of theft and deter potential thieves from targeting your truck camper.

Frequently asked questions

Some common problems include having to remove and store the steps inside the camper, creating a mess inside the camper, being unstable as they don't reach the ground, and the potential of being stolen.

Steps can be made from wood, such as pine or fir, or metal. It is important to use materials that are durable and can withstand outdoor conditions.

Safety should be a priority when designing and installing truck camper steps. Ensure the steps are securely fastened to the camper, can support the required weight, and have non-slip surfaces to prevent accidents.

Yes, there are pre-made truck camper step systems available, such as the Torklift SMARTSTEP® GlowStep and Stow N' Go series. These offer features like adjustable leveling feet, anti-slip surfaces, and easy deployment and storage.

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