Re: [A/S] new to us 73 airsteam, how to operate the step

[Charlie/Betty Burke <cbburke@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

1977 was a transition year for the step mechanism. Prior to the 77 model 
year the step was released by pressing down on the knob on a lever on 
the right hand side of the step. Starting with the 77 model the knob was 
replaced with a step release bar which can be released from the right or 
left by lifting up on it.
In either case once released the step was/is supposed to drop down into 
the lock position. For those that have them the second step is pulled up 
and out manually.
Closing the step is a reverse of the process. The step can be closed 
using the toe of your shoe to push it in and up to engage the latch. 
Granted, wear and tear makes them cranky, but that's the theory and how 
the new ones work.
A recommendation regarding the step is to service it at least once a 
year. It requires Allen wrenches and penetrating oil (not WD-40) and 
about 5 minutes. Without doing this the screws will loosen over time and 
eventually break at a most inopportune moment.

Charlie