The model 510 is for pickups and the model 610 is for vans and SUVs.
Installation...
I used the model 610 for SUVs on a friends 2002 Ford Windstar. He has a Class III hitch which, according to product specifications, can hold up to 500 pounds. Installation was simple and straight forward but you do need to follow the enclosed instructions for proper mounting and adjustments. It took me about 45 minutes to assemble and adjust the Twistep for this particular vehicle following these instructions.The instructions were clear, concise and had good diagrams depicting the assembly in stages. It took a bit of trial and error to get the maximum height of the Twistep and still be able to swing it into the stowed position. The good thing is you only have to do this once.
If you should have a problem, they have a toll free number you can call for assistance. Just for fun I called to see if there was a wait time and to see what kind of help I got. There was no wait time and the person I talked to obviously knew the product inside and out.
The Twistep has a lock and key that will prevent theft so you don't have to bring it in when the vehicle is unattended.
Use...
It was very easy to use. It easily swings from the stowed to open and back to stowed very easily. I stood on it and bounced around a little to see how it felt. There was some sway to it, so I took it out of the receiver and adjusted the fit in the receiver so it was a little tighter and that took the sway out. It was then rock steady. When I stepped on it again there was no sagging feeling or feeling that it was going to come apart. It was very solid feeling and I was able to reach the roof without feeling it was collapsing or falling off.I stood on the Twistep with two of my girlfriends and did some bouncing up and down and the Twistep still felt solid and firm even though we exceeded to specified weight limit.
The only drawback, since it plugs into the trailer hitch receiver, is it can only be used on the rear of the vehicle. A modification to make it useable from the front and sides of the vehicle would make it a lot more versatile.
In conclusion...
The Twistep is a solid, well made product. The construction is good and requires little or no maintenance. It only weighs about 25 pounds so if you need to take it out for storage, you're not going to hurt yourself.It is recommended you check all the fittings and attachments once a month and an occasional cleaning with soap and water to clean any sand or debris that might get into it.
All in all this is a nice product that most people will find very useful. MSRP is $159.95 and you can find a retailer at their web site.
OT, L.L.C.
2212 Queen Anne Ave. N. PMB 712
Seattle, Washington 98109
Phone: 206.284.6830
Toll Free: 888.284.7742
Email: info@otllc.com
