INS-LA401 & INS-LA401BA
06.10.15
UNIVERSAL EXTERIOR RV LADDER
MODEL # LA-401 & LA-401BA
Thank you for purchasing the Stromberg Carlson Products, Inc. LA-401 Series Universal Exterior RV Ladder.
Please read all directions completely prior to assembly. When assembled and used properly, this product will
provide many years of trouble free service. This kit contains components and hardware for one complete
universal ladder. Complete the following easy steps and you will be ready to use your new universal ladder.
Carton Contents:
(3) ladder sections (top U-shaped, middle straight and bottom J-shaped)
(4) 5” standoff assemblies – Item # 8535 (for LA-401) / 8535-B (for LA-401BA)
(2) swivel castings (hinges) –Item # 8525-BK
(2) roof mount brackets –Item # 8521-BK
(28) #10 sheet metal screws
(6) #10-24 x 30 mm bolts –Item # FST-1026
(2) #10-24 x 37 mm bolts
Tools Needed for Installation:
#2 Phillips screwdriver
Hack saw or tube cutter
Drill with 3/16” and ¼” drill bits
1. Insert the top two pieces of the ladder into the middle section of the ladder. Bolt them together using (2)
#10-24 x 30 mm screws.
2. Check your RV to see if the roof is curved or flat. If the roof is flat skip to step 7.
3. Place the upright tube of the top ladder section on the roof of your RV (12-¾” from the edge of the roof),
keeping the horizontal portion of the top ladder section parallel to the roof of the RV.
4. Measure the gap between the upright tube of the top ladder section and the roof of the RV. (Diagram A)
5. Using that measurement, trim the bottom of the upright tube so the ladder will mount flush to the roof.
6. With a 3/16” drill bit, drill a hole ½” from the bottom of the newly cut tube to reinstall the mounting bracket.
7. Use the #10-24 x 37 mm screws to attach the mounting brackets to the top of the ladder.
8. With the top of the ladder hanging parallel to the side of the RV, line up the bottom of the ladder with the
top. The bottom step of the ladder should be 6” to 12” above the bumper. If your RV has a bend in the rear,
push the top of the ladder tight to the RV so it is flush against the RV. Locate the bend point and mark the
ladder accordingly for trimming purposes. (Diagram B) Mark the top and bottom sections, keeping the
hinges as centered as possible.
9. Cut the tubes of the ladder and measure where the holes need to be drilled based on the hinges. Install the
hinges connecting the top and bottom sections of the ladder using (4) #10-24 x 30 mm screws. Secure the top
and bottom of the ladder with the #10 sheet metal screws. Take the last four support brackets and find the
spots that are flat for mounting. Mount the top two between the first and second step from the top of the
ladder and the other two 8” to 10” below the hinge point, keeping the ladder 5” parallel off the RV. Be sure
to use an outside type sealant on all points where holes are being put into your RV.
CAUTION: All screws connecting the ladder to the RV must be fastened to the RV’s blocking or sub frame. If
you are uncertain about the blocking or sub frame location contact your trailer manufacturer. It is unsafe to
use a ladder that is not connected to the RV’s blocking or sub frame.
