AMP Research Replacement Controller Standard - Type A

Restore Automatic Deployment on Your AMP Research PowerStep Running Boards

The AMP Research 19-04280-STA is the standard Type A replacement controller for Gen 2 PowerStep automatic running board systems on a wide range of trucks, SUVs, and full-size vehicles. It directly supersedes the older A-04 and A-06 controllers, restoring smooth and reliable automatic step deployment triggered by the door signal.

The 19-04280-STA includes a dedicated port for the optional override toggle switch (79106-01A), and it is compatible with a large range of AMP Research PowerStep applications spanning Ford, Chevrolet, GMC, Dodge, Ram, Cadillac, and other full-size trucks and SUVs from 1999 through 2023. This is a genuine AMP Research component, designed and engineered in the USA to the same standards as the original factory-installed 19-04280-STA controller.

Key Features

• Direct replacement for A-04 and A-06 PowerStep controllers
• Broad fitment spanning Ford, Chevrolet, GMC, Dodge, Ram, Cadillac, and more from 1999 to 2023
• Dedicated port for the optional override toggle switch (79106-01A)
• Plug-and-play installation on compatible Type A PowerStep systems
• Genuine AMP Research certified replacement component
• Designed and engineered in the USA
• Limited lifetime warranty
• Weather-resistant construction built for underbody exposure

Fitment

Specifications

What's Included

• 1 x AMP Research 19-04280-STA Standard Type A PowerStep controller

Related Parts on Our Site

• 19-04361-90 — B05 to STB Pigtail Adapter (required for Type B system harness retrofits)
• 19-04279-XTA — Xtreme Type A Controller Revision 6 (for Xtreme PowerStep systems)
• 79106-01A — Override Toggle Switch
• 79107-01A — Override Switch with STB1 Controller
• 75131-01A — PowerStep LED Light Kit
• 19-04280-STB — Replacement Controller Standard Type B

About AMP Research

AMP Research invented the automatic power running board and has remained the industry leader in retractable step technology for trucks and SUVs. Every AMP Research component is designed and engineered in the USA using military-grade materials and tested to withstand years of underbody exposure, vibration, and daily use. The 19-04280-STA controller carries the same limited lifetime warranty as AMP Research's complete PowerStep systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the AMP Research 19-04280-STA?

The AMP Research 19-04280-STA is a Standard Type A replacement controller for Gen 2 AMP Research PowerStep automatic running board systems. It supersedes the older A-04 and A-06 controllers and fits a broad range of Ford, Chevrolet, GMC, Dodge, Ram, Cadillac, and other full-size trucks and SUVs from 1999 through 2023.

What controllers does the 19-04280-STA replace?

The 19-04280-STA replaces the older A-04 and A-06 standard PowerStep controllers. If your existing system uses either of those units, the 19-04280-STA installs as a direct plug-and-play replacement on the same harness connector.

Do I need a pigtail adapter to install this controller?

No. The 19-04280-STA uses the same Type A wiring connector as the A-04 and A-06 controllers it replaces, so no adapter harness is required. The pigtail adapter (19-04361-90) is only needed when upgrading from a B-05 controller to the STB Type B unit.

Can I add an override toggle switch with this controller?

Yes. The 19-04280-STA includes a dedicated port for the optional AMP Research override toggle switch (79106-01A), which allows you to control step deployment independently from the door trigger signal.

What is the difference between the Type A and Type B controllers?

Type A and Type B refer to different generations of PowerStep electronics. The 19-04280-STA Type A replaces A-04 and A-06 controllers found on a wide range of vehicles through 2023. The Standard Type B controller (19-04280-STB) replaces B-03 and B-05 units on a more limited range of older Ford trucks and SUVs. Using the wrong controller type results in an incompatible connector or incorrect trigger logic.

Does the 19-04280-STA work with Xtreme PowerStep systems?

No. Xtreme PowerStep applications use the Xtreme Type A controller (19-04279-XTA), not the Standard Type A. Check your PowerStep kit number before ordering to confirm the correct controller type for your system.

Is this covered by a warranty?

Yes. The 19-04280-STA is covered by AMP Research's limited lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship when used as intended on a compatible PowerStep system.

How do I know if my vehicle is compatible?

Compatibility is based on your vehicle's original PowerStep kit number, not just the year and make. Common compatible kits include AMP Research PowerStep applications originally equipped with A-04 or A-06 controllers. If you are unsure, contact AMP Research technical support at 888-983-2204 with your kit number for confirmation.

Installation Instructions

1. Locate the existing PowerStep controller mounted in the engine bay or behind the front fascia.
2. Disconnect the vehicle battery negative terminal before handling any electrical connections.
3. Unplug the existing A-04 or A-06 controller harness connectors.
4. Connect the new 19-04280-STA controller to the harness connectors until each plug clicks into place.
5. If installing an override switch, connect its harness lead to the dedicated port on the controller.
6. Mount the controller in the factory location using the original hardware.
7. Reconnect the battery and test step deployment by opening each door to confirm proper operation.

WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead and phthalates, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.