Abstract: An extendable-retractable step system for a recreational vehicle (RV) has a step tread attached to a slider rod via side arms that include one or more locking tabs, and includes a pair of end plates having tab-receiving slots and notched slider slots that define extended and retracted positions. A method of assembling the step system and mounting same to a vehicle frame without using specially adapted tools includes the steps of mounting one of the end plates to the vehicle frame, inserting the ends of the slider rod into the slider slots, mounting the other end plate to the vehicle frame, and resting the locking tabs in the tab-receiving slots.

Abstract: A retractable step for use with a vehicle comprises a stepping member having a stepping deck, a first arm, a second arm, a motor and a stop. The first arm has a first end pivotally attached to the vehicle, and a second end pivotally attached to the stepping member. The second arm also has a first end pivotally attached to the vehicle, and a second end pivotally attached to the stepping member. The motor is drivingly connected to the first arm such that a rotation of the motor causes rotation of the first arm about its first end and moves the stepping member from a retracted position to an extended position, or vice versa. The stop is located within the range of motion of the second arm such that the second arm bears against the stop when the stepping member is in the extended position. The first and second arms are situated such that the first arm is loaded in compression and the second arm is loaded in tension when the stepping member is in the extended position and a load is placed upon it.

Abstract: A highly stable beach access stairway is described that includes steps constructed of first and second parallel stringers with a plurality of treads extending between the stringers; upper, intermediate and lower support posts upon which the stringers are mounted; upper, intermediate and lower cable attachment rods extending through the support posts and stringers; a plurality of sand anchors positionable at spaced distances from the top and sides of the steps, and cables that connect the anchors to the attachment rods adjacent the inner sides of the stringers. The top anchor is connected to the upper and intermediate rods, while the side anchors are attached to the inner face of the stringer on the opposite side of the steps from the anchor. A bottom anchor may also be positioned beneath the steps and attached to the intermediate and lower rods.

Abstract: An apparatus having one or two steps at the election of a user. The apparatus is stored under a counter in a space that is normally wasted. When in its single step configuration the apparatus has a generally parallelepiped appearance and includes a transversely disposed front wall, longitudinally extending side walls, a transversely disposed rear wall, and a top wall that provides a first step. A folding line formed in the top wall enables a trailing section of the structure to be rotated until the rear wall lies in a horizontal plane and provides a second step. A transverse rod facilitates rotation of the second step and the transverse rod supports the second step after it has been deployed. The rod has a telescoped construction and permits lowering of the second step when the user exerts an axial force against the rod.

Abstract: A collapsible step assembly for storing in a drawer of a cabinet. The collapsible step assembly includes a staircase for ascending and descending from a surface. The staircase includes a first end and a second end. A drawer assembly is provided for pivotally storing the staircase under the cabinet. The drawer assembly includes a drawer that has an interior. The second end of the staircase is pivotally coupled to the drawer between an extended position and a retracted position, In one embodiment of the present invention, the extended position is characterized by the staircase extending outwardly through an opening in the drawer. The retracted position is characterized by the staircase lying in the interior of the drawer. A bracket assembly is pivotally coupled to the staircase for supporting the staircase in the extended position.

Abstract: A stowable step has a housing, a U-shaped step platform and a sliding member pivotally engaging the step platform. The sliding member is slidably mounted within the housing for reciprocating movement between a retracted stowed position wherein the platform extends into the housing and a deployed position wherein the platform can pivot relative to the sliding member to a substantially vertical position.

Abstract: A ladder attached to a generally vertically extending wall or surface which is particularly useful when attached to the side of vehicles which can pivot outwardly to a slight extent at the bottom area thereof in order to increase the climbing inclination to make it easier to climb vertically for emergency personnel under emergency situations and especially when carrying heavy equipment or other necessary emergency apparatus. The ladder configuration is pivotal between a storage position extending generally vertically next to the wall and a deployed position or extended position set at the inclination angle to facilitate climbing thereof. A resilient locking device can secure the ladder in the collapsed position and a pivotally movable scissors assembly controls movement of the lower portion of the ladder between the inclined position and the vertical position.

Abstract: A retractable running board assembly has a step, at least two support arms, at least two mounting brackets, at least two pairs of parallel links and a drive. The step has an elongated stepping surface extending generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of a vehicle on which the running board assembly is mounted. The support arms are mounted to the step. The mounting brackets are connected to an underside of the vehicle. The parallel links are pivotally connected between each of the support arms and the mounting brackets. The drive effects movement of the step between an extended outboard position and a retracted inboard position.

Abstract: A Ladder Latch System for securing telescoping ladders in the retracted position is described. The latching system is a component of a telescoping ladder system, which has as its main components a plurality of telescoping ladder legs, a ladder-mounting bracket, and a latch-releasing mechanism. The latching system is mounted to the ladder-mounting bracket and secures the telescoping ladder legs, which are in turn released by the latch-release mechanism.

Abstract: A stairway assembly is pivoted between deployed and stowed positions. The stairway in one form includes a sliding support from which the stairway is suspended at a location spaced from a stairway pivot. A link, which may be adjustable in length, couples the coupler to the stairway. A snubber is provided to limit vibration of the stairway when stowed. An actuator, which may comprise an electric motor, is positioned above and overlies a portion of a platform of the stairway. Extension and retraction of the actuator pivots the stairway between stowed and deployed positions.

Abstract: A retractable stairway assembly for entering and exiting a vehicle with a cab has a stairway with steps. The stairway assembly is movable between a retracted position, in which the stairway is beneath the cab, and an extended position, in which the stairway is exposed to allow entering and exiting of the vehicle. The stairway assembly also has a panel that substantially hides the stairway when in the retracted position. An actuator moves the stairway assembly between the retracted and extended positions in response to closing and opening the door.

Abstract: A method of controlling a retractable stairway assembly for a vehicle includes monitoring at least one vehicle status condition such as (a) whether the vehicle is stopped, (b) whether the parking brake is set, (c) whether the cab is tilted in excess of a threshold, and (d) whether excess current is being required by a motor used to shift the stairway between stowed and deployed positions in the event an electric motor is used for this purpose. In the event any of these monitored conditions are not in a predetermined state, deployment of the stairway from a stowed position is blocked. Deployment and stowing of the stairway may also be interrupted depending upon vehicle status and other conditions. Interior and exterior vehicle alarms may be activated depending on vehicle status conditions and the mode of operation of the stairway.

Abstract: A recreational vehicle fire escape system for providing a user with a safe passage from the escape window to the ground includes a pair of tracks designed for coupling to a camper on an underside of an elevated compartment extending from the camper. A platform is slidably attached to the track for extending outwardly from the elevated compartment. A ladder is extended from the platform and is pivotable relative to the platform such that a distal end of the ladder is designed for positioning against a surface below the platform. The platform is positioned near an egress window of the camper such that the platform and ladder are designed for facilitating exit of a user through the egress window.

Abstract: An accessing step, mounted on a vehicle having a bumper attached to the vehicle frame, comprises a step part and a mount assembly fixedly supported on the bumper and frame, mounting the step part for swinging movement from a first operative position in which the step part extends generally horizontally to a retracted second position pivoted upwardly to lie generally vertically adjacent the bumper. The mount assembly incorporates a lock device automatically operative between the mount assembly and step part for releasably locking the step part in the second position and automatically locking up to block the step part from downwardly swinging beyond a substantially horizontal position, while permitting the step part to be swung upwardly.

Abstract: A collapsible step assembly has upper and lower steps, and a housing which mounts below the door of a vehicle. The steps and housing are interconnected by pivotally mounted linkages. A pivot rod extends transversely through the housing with a linkage fastened to each end. A link arm is connected to the rod with a universal ball joint. The link arm is swivelly mounted to a drive gear with teeth which extend circumferentially along an arcuate edge portion. The drive gear is pivotally mounted to the housing and engages a drive gear extending from a motor. The drive gear rotates the pivot rod and, hence, the steps between retracted and extended positions. A flat outer edge of the drive gear abuts a mechanical stop in the extended position. When the user steps on the steps while they are extended, the stop will resist countertorque on the pivot rod from being applied through the gears to the motor.

Abstract: A warp beamer having a frame supported on the floor and a horizontal warp beam rotatable on the frame has a step assembly provided with a step displaceable between a lower position supported directly on the floor and an upper position spaced well above the floor and of the warp beam. A motor connected between the step and the frame displaces the step between its positions. The step rides on a vertical guide on the frame and a lever assembly pivots the step between a horizontal position in the lower position and a generally vertical position in the upper position.

Abstract: A ladder device with integral housing, hinges, and axle for use in conjunction with independent support structures. The device utilizes minimal space within the support structure, transfers the preponderance of loads to the floor, is adjustable for varied dimensional relationships and is adaptable to a plurality of locations within or upon the support structure. The device can be extended and deployed, used to extend a users reach height, and then stowed away within the housing without disturbing the use of the support structure.

Abstract: A retractable hanging step platform with stabilizers improves the stability of hanging steps found on motor homes and travel trailers. One or more support stabilizers are pivotably mounted on the underside of a step to engage the ground when the retractable hanging step platform is extended for use and to pivot alongside the step when retracted for storage during travel. The legs are also vertically adjustable to accommodate varying height conditions between ground level and the hanging step platform.

Abstract: A stairway for providing access over a dune to a beach, while being retractable to avoid damage from adverse weather conditions, the stairway being adapted to be mounted on a plurality of piling on a dune, the stairway comprising a pivotally mounted housing section having an upper surface suitable for use as a walkway and a cavity beneath the walkway; a stair section moveable between a retracted position within the housing section cavity and an extended position, wherein the stair section extends from the housing section to the beach at an angle of about 45.degree. below horizontal; and drive means adapted to move the stair section between retracted and extended positions.

Abstract: An automatic entryway step system for recreational vehicles and motor homes which extends and retracts a step in response to a momentary push button switch located inside the vehicle near the door. A safety retraction system automatically retracts the step when the vehicle ignition is turned on, but only if the vehicle parking brake is not engaged. If the vehicle ignition system is turned on while the parking brake is engaged, a step warning indicator will be activated to alert the driver that the step is extended. If the parking brake is released, the step will retract and the warning indicator will be turned off.

Abstract: This invention provides an apparatus for overhead storage of elongated objects. The apparatus includes an elongated track (10) having first and second ends (14, 36) and being attached to an overhead support surface (12). A slidable support member (18) is slidably mounted on the track (10) and includes a carriage (20) with a downwardly-extending support arm (22). The slidable support member (18) is movable along the length of the track (10). A fixed support member (16) is adjacent the track's first end (14). An elongated object (24) may be supported adjacent opposite ends thereof (28, 32). A first end (28) is supported by the fixed support member (16) and a second end (28) is supported by the slidable support member (18). The elongated object (24) may be placed on the apparatus by placing the object's second end (28) on the slidable support member (18) when the slidable support member (18) is adjacent the track's first end (14).

Abstract: This invention relates to a reversible folding ladder which is composed of a ladder, two steel channels, a front frame and a rear frame. More particularly the ladder is composed of a front staircase and a rear staircase. There is a plurality of foot pedals hinged on both the front staircase and the rear staircase and the top of both the front staircase and the rear staircase is hinged on the front frame. Furthermore the front frame is connected with the rear frame by a pivot rod and can be reversed. A connecting part of the rear frame and the pivot rod can be rotated. When unfolding the reversible folding ladder to contact the ground, each foot pedals is arranged parallel with the front frame. Furthermore when the reversible folding ladder is rotated to a position parallel with the front frame, the rear staircase can be received into the front staircase.

Abstract: A mounted, retractable step for motor vehicles, such as passenger vans, that slides into an extended position for assisting entrance into the side of the passenger van. The step is mounted on the ends of a pair of square rods that slide horizontally under the passenger van. The rods are carried on an outer guide and between a pair of spaced-apart inner guides. The outer guide is attached to a pair of outer guide supports mounted to the edge of the underside of the van. The inner guides are attached to an inner guide support mounted to the underside of the van. Each of the rods has a pair of guide stops, in the form of nipples extending downwardly from the bottom side of the rods, that lock the rods into an extended position and a retracted position depending on which guide they straddle. The step is moved from the retracted position to the extended position by lifting the step slightly and then sliding it out from under the passenger van.

Abstract: A collapsible and retractable step apparatus having first and second steps is provided. The steps are extendable from, and used in combination with, a shelf that resides a vertical distance above a floor. A support and suspension leg unit is free at a first end thereof and is rotationally secured at a second end thereof to the second step. The leg unit is also rotationally secured to the first step at a location between the first and second ends of the leg unit. The leg unit positions and supports the first and second steps in a first configuration in which the first and second steps are positioned along with the leg unit in a substantially contiguous plane. The leg unit is rotatable about the location between the first and second ends of the leg unit to a second configuration in which the leg unit is in a substantially vertical orientation with respect to the floor. In the second configuration, the first or free end of the leg unit rests on the floor such that the leg unit supports the first step.

Abstract: A step ladder assembly that moves back and forth from a storage area beneath the vehicle to an operation position in front of the vehicle entry way. The step ladder usually includes a pivotal stair case part and slide part fitted between rails carries by the vehicle undercarriage.

Abstract: Aircraft cabin stairs to connect the aircraft fuselage to a parking area surface gave a frame comprising at least two telescoping segments as well as steps located in the region of the frame. An end segment forms part of the frame by means of side stringers which are present at least in certain regions and which are connected in a telescoping manner to side stringers of a main segment. At least one step in the region of the main segment is mounted such that it is free to slide in the direction of the stairs' longitudinal axis.

Abstract: The escape of the present invention is installed in each storey of a building and comprises a storage space for the escape, a sliding platform, and an escape passageway. The storage space is formed in each storey of the building to have a configuration of a rectangular parallelepiped. The storage space has an opening in an external wall of a building. The platform is normally put away in the storage space and, in case of emergency, slides out from the opening of the storage space to form a landing of the escape passageway. The escape passageway is put up in the platform while one end of the passageway is pivotally attached to the platform to rotate the passageway downwards. When the escape is used, one end of the escape passageway rotates toward a lower platform to form an inclined passage between the upper and lower platforms.

Abstract: A step-stool for enabling a child to climb up to the top surface of a cabinet made of a top piece, a bottom piece and a middle step or platform piece adapted to slide out from between the top piece and the bottom piece to form a step. Two T-shaped spacers, one on each side, provide a channel for the middle platform piece to move outward and form the step. Screws, nails, or nuts and bolts act as fasteners to fit through the top piece, the two spacers and the bottom piece to hold them together, leave room for the middle slidable platform piece to be pulled out and to anchor the step-stool to a cabinet or other floor. The components of the step-stool of the invention may be marketed as a kit, put together to form an unanchored step-stool or anchored to a cabinet or other floor.

Abstract: A folding step structure (7) comprises an elongate base (11) to be laid on or parallel to a ground surface (1); a frame (15) connected to the base; a step (14) connected to the frame such that the frame and the step member are together pivotal, about pivot points (20, 21) towards one end of the base, between a first limit position in which the step is parallel to, and closely spaced from, the ground surface at a location towards the other end of the base, in which limit position the frame is closely adjacent the base, and a second limit position in which the step is supported above the base; and a bracing strut (24) for securing the step and the frame in the second limit position.

Abstract: An extensible and retractable step assembly for a floor cabinet having an open rectangular base slidably mounted in an interior space at the bottom of the cabinet immediately above the floor and selectively positionable in the cabinet or in front of the cabinet, a step which fits inside this base, and slidable pivoted linkages connecting the step to the base and permitting the step to be raised up from the base when the base is extended in front of the cabinet.

Abstract: Arrangement for a lift adapted to a motor vehicle, comprising a lifting platform capable of moving between the vehicle and a floor. The invention provides a simple device for achieving a reliable and efficient lift arrangement, for example, for use by individuals in wheelchairs who wish to move between the inside and the outside of a vehicle without the help of an assistant, and without additional ramp or lift arrangements. The platform is attached via a scissor mechanism to a source of power for the platform, so that the platform, upon actuation of the power source, moves between a lower and an upper position, one of which at least is situated at a different level with respect to that of the attachment of the scissor mechanism to the source of power.

Abstract: A storage apparatus for flatbed trailers includes a storage box which swings out to the side from beneath the trailer bed for loading and unloading. When in an up, traveling position, a lip on the front of the storage box engages a flange of the trailer side rail to support the front of the box, while a U-shaped frame connected to the trailer framework provides support beneath the rear of the box. Two arm members are pivotally mounted between the trailer framework and the sides of the box, and support the box while not in the up position. The pivotal attachments of the arm members to the box are located so that the box is unbalanced with the front biased downwards. Curved rail members, supported by the trailer framework, engage rollers attached to the rear of the box to control its upward movement. Dual-acting air cylinders are pivotally attached between the trailer framework and the arm members.

Abstract: A crib structure for a child includes a support surface for the child. A plurality of side walls are operatively connected to the support surface. At least one of the side walls includes a door opening and at least one door. The door is laterally slidable substantially in the direction to and from an adjacent side wall, such that the child can be quietly and easily placed into and taken the crib through the door opening without substantial bending or reaching. The sidewalls and the support surface define an interior space therebetween and an exterior space surrounding the sidewalls. At least one of the side walls is preferably composed of a material which is substantially flexible to forces directed substantially from the interior, and substantially rigid to forces directed substantially from the exterior. Step structure is preferably provided beneath the support surface.

Abstract: A ladder and carrier assembly for attachment beneath the deck of a boat, such as a pontoon boat or party boat, includes a carrier suspended horizontally below the boat deck and provided with a rearmost transverse end element. A ladder support assembly mounted adjacent the forwardmost end of the carrier is provided with a pair of transverse rods disposed in vertical planes laterally offset from one another and which define a ladder clearance therebetween. A ladder having two longitudinal siderails includes a plurality of transverse steps and is disposed within the clearance of the support assembly. Restriction in displacement of the ladder from a substantially horizontal stowed position, to that of an extended inclined position, is controlled by a pair of stop members depending from the inner faces of the ladder siderails, adjacent their rear ends, and which alternately abut the carrier end element and one of the support assembly rods.

Abstract: A retractable porch for use on motor homes, travel trailers and mobile homes is mounted for movement between erected and collapsed positions. In a first embodiment, a porch frame supports a porch platform and has side members which terminate in attachment struts. A pair of spaced parallel frame rails are secured to the vehicle frame, beneath a door, on the underside of the vehicle. The frame rails are formed from tubular members dimensioned to receive the porch attachment strut members. A pair of porch side railings are secured along perpendicular edges of the porch frame by hinges for movement between a collapsed horizontal position and an erected vertical position. A pair of vertically extending tubular sockets on a side wall of the vehicle for receive the porch attachment strut members during transportation of the vehicle.

Abstract: A porch adapted for use with a mobile living unit. The porch is moveable from a traveling position wherein the base is disposed generally under the mobile living unit to a support position wherein the base extends a distance from one side of the mobile living unit.

Abstract: A ladder assembly, primarily for use on vehicles having compartments inconveniently displaced from the ground, has a ladder slidably attached to a storage portion between a retracted storage position and a substantially vertical, operative position, wherein the ladder is reachably displaced above the ground in the operative position. The storage portion is designed to retractably and securely store the ladder when not in use and to prevent disengagement of the ladder from the storage portion when the ladder is in the operative position. The ladder assembly further includes a bracing portion which prevents swinging movement of the ladder, in the operative position, towards the storage portion.

Abstract: A collapsible step apparatus (10) for use in combination with a kitchen cabinet shelf (101); wherein the apparatus (10) comprises an articulated step unit (11) and a mounting unit (12) adapted to movably secure the articulated step unit (11) to the underside of the kitchen cabinet shelf (101) whereby the articulated step unit (11) may be deployed in an extended or retracted mode relative to the cabinet shelf (101).

Abstract: A ladder device for the transom of a boat has a platform unit and a step unit that may be moved between a use position with a step thereof immersed in the water in which the boat floats and a storage position where the step is located out of the water. The step in the use position extends aft of the platform unit and permits a person to climb out of the water and onto the platform unit without the step making any appreciable movement relative to the platform unit during such climb. The platform unit includes a pair of ring members that each depends from a respective longitudinal section of the unit. The step unit includes a U-shaped tubular member defined by two parallel side sections joined integrally to a transverse section. The side sections each have a long leg and a short leg with one end thereof unattached and a stop member is carried on such unattached end.

Abstract: The present invention has as an object a foldable staircase for vehicles, for examples in airplane, which, once folded, is housed in a compartment provided in the fuselage.This staircase comprises:a carriage (4) slidably mounted in the compartment (1) which carriage receives, in an overhanging manner, a foldable staircase structure (5) which, when it is housed in the compartment, is folded and extends toward the opening (3) of this latter,a motor mechanism (6) either for driving the carriage (4) toward the opening (3) and extracting the structure from the compartment (1) outside of which it will be deployed, or for restoring the structure into the compartment after this latter has been folded and conducted at the time of folding into the axis of the compartment,and motor means (7) for unfolding or re-folding, along a vertical plane, the structure (5) when this latter is outside of the compartment (1).

Abstract: A movable foot-step for a vehicle is operable by a mechanism including a guide device below the floor of the vehicle for extension of the step outside one side of the vehicle in an outwards/downwards movement and retraction in the opposite direction. The foot-step comprises a support structure over which an endless mat is stretched, and means for retaining a portion of the mat in the direction of movement of the foot-step, but not in the vertical direction.

Abstract: A retractable porch and stair apparatus suitable for use with trailers and the like has a pair of parallel elongate channel members for attachment to the underside of a trailer. A floor member having preferably iron grating therein for strength and cleanliness is disposed on a pair of parallel runner members slidingly mounted on the channel members so that the floor member can be slidingly moved from the underside of the trailer to a position adjacent thereto. A stair combination having parallel side support members in the form of channel members is connected at one end to a corresponding pair of second channel members mounted on the underside of the floor member and extending to the side of the floor member so that the stair combination can be raised to horizontal position and slidingly moved underneath the floor member, and the floor member and stair members can then be slidingly moved under the trailer for storage.

Abstract: For use with a motor vehicle, a device is provided for moving a step between an extended and a retracted position which comprises a pneumatic cylinder including a piston attached to the step and resiliently biased to move the step to an extended position and arranged to move the step to a retracted position against the biasing means, in response to a sub-atmospheric pressure.

Abstract: An entrance step arrangement particularly for short distance vehicles, especially rail vehicles, which has at least one intermediate step, a cover for covering up the step or steps, a foldable guard plate, and transmission elements interposed between a drive and movable element, and safety devices for preventing faulty actuation of the cover, guard plate, and transmission elements. The axes of rotation of the movable elements are arranged horizontal and parallel to the outer contour of the vehicle. The guard plate which is foldable outwardly carries a step, and the step cover is pivotable inwardly behind the tread edge of the floor of the vehicle.

Abstract: A ladder assembly, primarily for use on trucks and other vehicles, has a ladder slidable between a retracted, stored position in a ladder storage assembly, and an extended, operative position in which the ladder projects from an extrance of the storage assembly. First and second retainers are provided for retaining the ladder relative to the storage assembly in the stored and operative positions, respectively, and the ladder has opposed lateral projections slidable along guides formed by parallel side members having U-shaped cross-sections the side members being spaced apart to receive the ladder therebetween and forming opposite sides of the storage assembly.

Abstract: A vehicle step which includes a pair of pivotally supported levers or links to which are pivotally connected a pair of pivotally connected tread supporting members. Said members engage a transverse bar which together with the levers guide the tread in its movement so that it may be easily moved to extended or retracted positions with fingertip ease.

Abstract: A bus vehicle includes an entry way having a lower step, a middle step and a third step which is the floor of the vehicle. The bottom step is vertically movable to three positions, a ground engaging position, a position in the plane of the bottom of the vehicle and a position in the plane of the vehicle floor. A step extension portion is pivotally connected to the movable step and pivots out of the way when the step is in its two lowered positions and pivots to a horizontal position when the step is in its raised floor position thereby providing a continuous floor over the entry way. A closure plate closes the bottom of the entry way and is movable downwardly by the movable step when moving to its ground engaging position.

Abstract: A combination access stairstep and elevator means for use in a passenger vehicle entryway. In its retracted normal position a passenger elevator platform member projects freely into the entryway part of its width below passenger deck level to serve as an access step for passengers who can ascend and descend on foot. Such platform member is mounted as part of a dual-arm parallelogram linkage mechanism on a guided, horizontally reciprocative carriage, the various parts of which in normal position are compactly stowed at a common level out of the entryway passage beneath the passenger deck. In order to accommodate disabled persons, the platform member may be fully extended outward in the entryway for use in elevating crippled persons and passengers in wheelchairs between deck level and curb or ground level. Grab rails with rail posts mounted on the normally projecting portion of the platform member can serve as a steadying aid to passengers in all positions of the platform member.

Abstract: A stowable step for use with a vehicle of the type having a body with a door opening therein and a frame beneath and inward from the door opening, a plate hinged to the frame and receiving a stowable tread thereupon, the tread being displacable laterally from the frame below the door opening. Slotted supports and links permit the tread to be compactly stored upon the plate and for the plate to be releasably locked against the vehicle body.