Heininger PortablePET Truck Twistep Dog Hitch Step

What do I need in order to use the Twistep?

The Twistep for SUV’s requires a 1.25-inch or 2-inch receiver hitch. The Twistep for Trucks requires a 2-inch receiver hitch.

Can I use the Twistep if I don’t have a receiver on my vehicle?

No. A hitch is required to use this product. The Twistep for SUV’s requires a 1.25-inch or 2-inch receiver hitch. The Twistep for Trucks requires a 2-inch receiver hitch.

Do I need to assemble anything when it arrives?

The Twistep comes fully assembled but you may need to adjust the height. Then the only task you will have is to attach the Twistep to your hitch and tighten the bolt with a wrench (They require a 7/8 inch wrench, or 22mm socket wrench fitting).

What is the weight limit for the Twistep?

The Twistep for will hold up to 400 pounds on a Class III Hitch – So don’t be afraid to use this step to reach your rooftop cargo.

How much clearance is needed under the vehicle?

We recommend a clearance of 12 inches from the bottom of your receiver hitch to the ground.

Do I need the Extension Bracket?

The need for an Extension bracket depends on the type of vehicle you own. It is designed to give added clearance when there is a spare tire or gas tank located under your vehicle that would impede the Twistep from rotating. If you are not sure if your vehicle will require this item please contact us.

Known vehicles that require an Extension Bracket are: 2006-2016 Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, Cadillac Escalade and/or some Nissan Pathfinders (This only applies to SUV model Twisteps)

How far below the vehicle will the Twistep platform be resting?

At its shortest setting the Twistep sits 6 inches below the receiver hitch.

How far out does the Twistep extend behind the vehicle when it is in the stowed position?

This would depend on several variables. The location of your bumper, how your receiver hitch is installed and which pin hole on the Twistep receiver tube you have used.

Is the Twistep height adjustable?

The Twistep for SUV’s has a variable of approximately 3 inches of height adjustment. The Twistep for Trucks as a variable of approximately 2 inches of height adjustment.

What if my Twistep is difficult to rotate?

Check for rust and to see if your T-Handle has been damaged. Remove the T-Handle with a wrench to see if it is bent or if the tip of the pin has been damaged.

What maintenance do I need to do on my Twistep?

We recommend you clean your Twistep from time to time with soap and water, to ensure sand, grit and other debris does not interfere with TWISTEP's smooth operation. In salty conditions, wash the TWISTEP thoroughly at least every week.

Stow the Twistep out of the way or remove it completely if you drive through a car wash.

Routine lubrication of Twistep is required around the T-Handle shaft to ensure the knob lifts easily and platform rotates.

Apply lubrication to the round rotation surface, the area directly below the tower assembly.

We recommend using Use 3-In-One generously and often .

Can I use the same Twistep on multiple vehicles?

Yes, as long as the vehicles have a compatible receiver hitch. The height may need to be adjusted to the specific vehicle but it is easily removed and installed.