sorry for re-hashing an old thread, but i believe i have one of these step mechanisms you're talking about. lever in the van behind the passenger seat that actuates the mechanism and moves a step platform out from under the van.

i had removed it due to it interfering with my plans for exhaust. It's missing quite a few bits, but nothing that couldnt be replaced with a trip to a ocal hardware store.

we're talking about this little step between the wheel arches, right?