3) Test-fitting the steps on the vehicle
a) Take this sub-assembly plus both steps and the 3-5/8” bolt to the vehicle
b) Mount the sub-assembly to the vehicle by sliding the hitch insert into the
vehicle’s hitch receiver until the first hole in the hitch insert is aligned with
the hole in the vehicle receiver. Insert the 3-5/8” bolt into this hole and turn
a few times by hand (see Fig. F). This will hold the insert in place while
performing the following steps…
c) Place the upper and lower steps into the respective step brackets by
retracting the red spring-pin cap, sliding the step into the bracket and
releasing the spring-pin so the pins engage the holes on the step brackets
(see Fig. G). Note the square tube on the lower step has two position holes –
for now, use the hole near the open end.
d) Examine the position of each step relative to the height of vehicle’s cargo
area and the ground. The two steps should be roughly in the middle of this
vertical span. To raise the position of the steps, first remove them from the brackets and set aside.
Then remove the two bolts described in steps 2)b) and 2)c) and
move the mounting bracket up until the holes on the bracket align
with holes on the hitch insert. Replace the two 3” bolts and two
steps and re-measure the vertical spacing.
e) Once the preferred height of the steps is achieved, firmly tighten the
nuts on the 3” bolts connecting the hitch insert and vertical
mounting tube.
4) Connecting hitch insert to vehicle: The hitch insert includes three
mounting holes along the square tube section. The first and third holes
are threaded, and work with the included 3-5/8” bolt. The middle
mounting hole is larger, has no threads, and works with a “standard”
(5/8”) hitch pin which is available for purchase from Solvit’s website, or from automotive parts retailers.
To determine which attachment method is better, consider:
-The “standard” hitch pin requires no tools to install/uninstall but the result is the hitch insert is
relatively loose in the hitch receiver, which allows the steps to move more when used.
-The threaded, 3-5/8” bolt “clamps” the hitch insert to the hitch receiver and reduces movement
between these two parts. This method also offers two mounting positions, to better fit the vehicle.
This method requires a wrench to install/uninstall so it is not as easy to remove the entire assembly
from the vehicle. However, because the steps can be removed or stowed when not in use, the hitch
assembly can be left in place, so we recommend using this method of attachment.
(Always make sure to insert the “R” clip into the end of the 3-5/8” bolt. This is an important
safety feature!)
5) Using the Hitch Step: Once the mounting bracket sub-assembly is connected to
the vehicle, the steps can be stowed in the horizontal or vertical position, or
removed and stowed inside the vehicle. Releasing the black spring-pins allows
the stairs to move between the vertical and horizontal positions. Releasing the
red spring-pins allows the steps to be removed from the mounting bracket. If
you plan to leave the steps in the mounting bracket while driving, we
recommend stowing them in the vertical position to avoid road grime and debris
(see Fig. H). The lower step has two position holes and we recommend locating
the spring-pin in the hole closest to the step platform when stowed, and the
opposite hole when in use.
For vehicles with 1.25” hitch receivers, Solvit offers a special adapter. Check our website for more details.
CAUTION: To avoid injury, always maintain control of the steps when raising and lowering.
Periodically check all bolts to make sure they are tight. If you have connected the hitch insert using the 3-5/8” bolt,
make sure the “R” clip is installed. This is an important safety feature!
