Back nerf step broke off week old tag

Donkeythekidd

Just picked up my 2021 tag last week. I stepped on the back nerf step to check out the solar panel and the back bolt snapped right off. And before you say anything I weigh 145 lbs. I hurt my back a little from the little stumble but I'm more upset then hurt. I tried to get ahold of the warrenty department but no answer so I left a message. I also filled out a claim online. I wish I could just run to Home Depot and fix it myself but a new stud would need to be welded in. I did manage to get a picture of it right before the step broke, it looked good 🤣

Anyone else have a step brake off?

HellFish

I'm amazed they mounted it that way...the bolts would have enormous bending pressure on them. They wouldn't noticeably bend as you stepped on it, but they are bending none-the-less. Throw in any rust and metal fatigue, and, well, you know...better than anyone else. BTW, an average American male weights just under 200 lbs, a lot more than 145. Glad you didn't get hurt too bad. Be careful using the remaing steps...are they any stronger? Off topic a bit, but that's a good looking T@G.

Donkeythekidd

I went around and looked at all of them, can't see much, especially if there welded on good. But from what I can tell by standing on them and trying to wiggle them a bit by hand, they seem like there OK.

Bob297

Very poor design IMHO. Most likely look for a redesign in the 2022 model. Until they correct this problem, I would remove them. You could have been seriously hurt.

Frogger

Dang dude, glad you're ok, could have been a lot worse as stated...

beaky

thats a new feature, apparently to assist in using the awning

HikinMike

nuCamp advertises it as being able to use it as a step.

TomD

Hmmm. WilliamA can help.

Donkeythekidd

I received an email from Nucamp today. They apologized for it breaking and said they can send out a new bar.

The bolts look pretty big. Just measured one at 9.4mm. I did notice today, looking at the half that broke off and still has the nut on it, that the nut is not on straight, maybe cross threaded, and when it was screwed on all the way could have compromised the bolt and weekend it 🤔

OutdoorEd

@Bob297 said:
Very poor design IMHO. Most likely look for a redesign in the 2022 model.

I expect this would be the strong recommendation of their legal counsel and their liability insurance company.

Jay

Don't think it is 9.4 mm, they don't make those, it may be imperial, 3/8" is close to that and more than likely is that. Looks like a fine thread, so 3/8-24
That is a small screw to holding something that you are to step on, at least 5/8" if not 3/4" would be better