My LH entry step broke yesterday(about a 110lb girl, go figure). Apparently I have later model, "tear drop" steps; as my parts book shows a simple flat angle one.

I see FAtlee Dodge has brand new ones for $325, also in the flat style. I'm considering replacing both; it occurs to me that this step failure could have hurt someone in the wrong circumstance(older person, falling down onto the ski,...).

Does anyone have these?
Is it just a tube you're stepping on, or a bit of flat stock?
Is there a significant difference to the feel of these compared to the wider teardrop style?

Thanks

FADodge
http://www.fadodge.com/739-2/

Mcfarlane makes one, too. This looks like it is a bit more steamlined. However, FADodge has added a gusset at the corner, good idea.

http://mcfarlaneaviation.com/Products/? ... C711006-1&

I see both McFarlane & Dodge steps have a little turn-up at the end, to keep your foot from sliding off. Don't think the original Cessna steps have one, or at least much of one. Mine don't anyways. One of my steps has a plate gusset, must broke in the past or maybe a previous owner felt it needed beefing up.

hotrod180 wrote:I see both McFarlane & Dodge steps have a little turn-up at the end, to keep your foot from sliding off. Don't think the original Cessna steps have one, or at least much of one. Mine don't anyways. One of my steps has a plate gusset, must broke in the past or maybe a previous owner felt it needed beefing up.

That part on Cessna tail dragged takes more stress than any other part on the plane. I've flown a couple of "portly" passengers in a 185 and cringed as they boarded.

Buy the Atlee step, field tested.

MTV

I installed Atlee's and they and they are plenty sturdy.
I need to put a strip of non skid tape on them, they are slick just with paint.

Atlee is better due to the little corner gusset. They are made of tubing not flat stock.
Don't be afraid to drill your step off and get it welded. The 185 step that bends outward and has the flat plate is harder to repair and make stronger while looking good as well. The last one I replaced broke at a but weld repair.
I think Rob Air makes a replacement step that is the newer style.

PAMR MX wrote:....I think Rob Air makes a replacement step that is the newer style.

RobAir lists some steps but the p/n is unfamiliar.

http://www.robairrepair.com/

The Landing Gear Works offers cabin step rebuilds, but they're pretty spendy.

http://www.thelandinggearworks.com/prod ... -services/

New parts from Dodge or McFarlane look like the way to go.