The sliding-door step-ins

[Chip]

This is about the humble step found inside cargo-Connect sliding doors. Do we really need it? What's inside the passenger version?

 

I removed the step at the sliding door entry when I took the plunge under the cargo deck, and haven't had that step for over a month now. I don't miss it. I need to put something there to make it look more finished, but I don't  plan to reinstall the factory step. I sometimes stand in that space while I'm tying gear on the roof. If I keep standing on it I think I'll eventually destroy the weather stripping, so it may be I just need to install a board there. But I really don't know what to do with that space.

 

I've fashioned deck boards I can lay over the opening created after I opened up the cargo deck. When I do so, I like the continuation of the deck over the space where the step was. With the slider open, I like being able to sit at deck level with my butt where the step used to be, and it is more flat space.

 

I used the steps when they were there. I think I even stepped on them. But I don't really step into the van. Usually take a knee. I'm over six feet. It's not like I can walk around inside the van. The steps were a good place to store water jugs, and I used to throw my shoes in there when I camped in the van. 

 

Do you think I'll miss the step if I eliminate it? What do you do with that space?