The process of installing running boards is often straightforward, but if your running boards are particularly heavy, you might want to enlist the assistance of a buddy.
Many aftermarket side steps, nerf bars, and running boards will come with installation instructions. Running boards are typically pre-drilled with mounting holes in the frame, so all you have to do is install them and secure them with the hardware that came with your running boards.
You will need to drill the holes yourself if your car doesn’t already have them. However, if the holes aren’t pre-drilled, we’d advise hiring a professional to install them because you don’t want to jeopardize your car’s structure.
To install your running boards, simply adhere to the directions that came with them. You can also search online for instructional videos like the one on YouTube below.
In This Article...
How much will it cost to install running boards?
The least expensive basic running boards cost between $100 and $300. Costs for those with greater strength or traction could reach $500. It will cost between $50 and $150 to hire someone to install them for you. You may also do it yourself, but plan on devoting the entire day to it.
Running board installation is simple if you know what you’re doing. For some vehicles, you’ll need a block driver bed lift to enter (pickup trucks, Vans, etc.) You ought to be able to get assistance from the installer for this task. Following the instructions and marking the location of the running board before removing it are all that are required once you are inside the car. Typically, running boards are mounted on the side of the car that is opposite the drive axle. Whether the front or rear running boards are trickier to install depends on your car. Due to the fact that they are under less weight, the front ones are typically simpler to install. Since they are exposed to the elements on the back, they require more care.
Running boards are used for two things. They first offer more traction when driving on erratic road surfaces like gravel or snow. They also give your car more style. While some people prefer running boards, others do not. However, its impact in enhancing fuel economy cannot be disputed. Running boards lessen the amount of tire-to-ground contact, which lowers friction and improves traction.
Which equipment is required to install running boards?
Before mounting the running boards, certain tools are necessary.
Equipment such as a ratchet, socket set, box end wrenches, safety goggles, gloves, etc. Different truck, jeep, and SUV makes and models may match with specific running boards. In any case, this installation guide for running boards is general.
Step 1: Check Your Parts
Before assembling the new running boards, you should unpack them to make sure all the pieces are there. Before beginning, examine the hardware and compare it to the manufacturer’s list.
Step 2: Install the Bolt Plate
The component that secures the bracket in place is the bolt plate. Locate the mounting frame’s hole location on the car’s chassis. It should be noted that there is no need for manual drilling because this hole is located where the original car hole was. The bracket is then secured with screws. The screws must not be tightened at this moment in order for the running boards to be placed properly.
Step 3: Install the Brackets
The left and right, front, middle, and back each have three brackets with text descriptions. First, examine the front rack. Hand-tighten the bracket because future adjustments might be necessary. It should be noted that the middle bracket uses the screws designated for the original automobile, while only the front and rear brackets use T-bolts. Use the appropriate bolts, nuts, and washers.
Step 4: Install the running boards
Loosen the nut on the running board’s back once the bracket has been fixed. The pedals are held in place by the loosened bolts. Place your running boards on the bracket, then carefully line up the pedals’ threaded rods with the bracket’s holes. You can tighten all the screws after relocating the running boards. Make sure the board is centered properly to avoid interference or becoming an obstruction.
Step 5: Check
It must achieve a tight fit with the body and have no discernible gap after the running boards are mounted. And a deep sensation of unity with the body is produced as a result.
How do running boards influence fuel efficiency?
increasing fuel efficiency Fixed boards have a negative aerodynamic effect. By simplifying your truck with electronic, retractable running boards, you may increase gas mileage.
Do running boards make sense?
Running boards are not only a fashionable addition to your car, but they also come in handy if you have young children or elderly passengers. They act as steps to make it easier for shorter or more unsteady people to board the car. Getting into your truck or SUV could be challenging without an additional step.
Running boards have the additional benefit of shielding cars from road debris. The wheels of moving vehicles throw up a variety of debris, including dirt, rocks, and nails. If this debris makes contact with the side panels, doors, or windows of your car, it may cause damage. Running boards aid in blocking the debris and safeguarding your car from harm.
Running boards also contribute to a tidy interior in your car. Before stepping into your vehicle or SUV, passengers can use them as a type of doormat to wash the dirt off their shoes.
Are running boards an option?
On the market, there are some automatic running boards that are aftermarket. You can get a premium set and mount them on your truck. Wire them to your truck next. When you open the door properly, the running boards will retract. When you close the door, they will likewise pull themselves up.
This is a workable solution, but it has one disadvantage. You must wait for the running board to lower before opening the door. When you’re pressed for time, this can be frustrating. Or, if you have a visitor who is unfamiliar with them and you forget to warn them, the running board could hurt them when it descends. Consider the following two options if you want more control over when your running boards rise and fall.
What distinguishes Nerf bars from running boards?
Running boards give you a smoother, roomier platform on which to put your feet. Frequently, they are flush mounted the entire length of the vehicle. They might have tread patterns or non-slip step pads that give you more traction when getting in and out of the car. Nerf bars have a rounded, narrow surface that is perfect for stepping.
Do running boards require drilling holes?
One of the most popular aftermarket truck accessories is a set of running boards. Running boards are designed to make getting in and out of your truck simple for you, your loved ones, and even your pets. If you transport something substantial or have a huge vehicle, they might be useful.
Running boards come in a few different varieties, so you should pick the ones that best suit your requirements. Some running boards are affixed to the vehicle indefinitely, while others are detachable. Whether you want running boards that stretch all the way to the door or only halfway is another choice you must make. Staying on the running boards while operating a vehicle is prohibited.
Installation is simple once you’ve selected the ideal running boards for your truck. Most running boards come with straightforward, easy-to-follow instructions. To attach the running boards, you’ll need to drill holes in your truck and use the supplied screws. Installing them shouldn’t take more than an hour or two.
Let’s start by going through the equipment needed to install running boards on your truck. They consist of;
- Ratchet and socket set
- Gloves and protective eyewear
- box-end spanners
- padded/creeper mat (optional)
For some trucks, you might require specific tools, though. For instance, you cannot use the same running boards on a Dodge Ram and Toyota Tundra; instead, you must select the appropriate item for each vehicle. Running boards, particularly those delicate power running boards, might also be tool-specific.
Power deployable or foldable running boards are other names for power running boards. When the car door opens, they always deploy. Although they are often a little more expensive than manual running boards, they provide far more comfort and safety.
You must remove your truck’s current running boards (if any are present) and drill new holes before installing motorized running boards. Additionally, wiring from the door to the board must be run. Compared to manual boards, the installation process is a little more difficult, but it will be worthwhile in the end.
Running board installation often goes as follows:
- Take remove the outdated running boards (or cut them off at the doorframe if they are not removable).
- Make holes in your truck, then screw the running boards on.
- Make any required modifications after checking the fit.
- Have fun with your new running boards!
Running boards are what an SUV has.
A platform that is fastened to a car’s doors to make it easier for occupants to enter and exit the vehicle is known as a running board. Running boards are typically utilized on trucks and SUVs because of the high ground clearance, which makes it difficult for users to access or exit these vehicles. They are normally manufactured with heavy-duty plastic or rubber padding for the feet and a nonslip pad made of steel and rubber.
The advantages of running boards are as follows:
Will running boards rust the vehicle?
The majority of running boards and nerf bars can be installed without drilling, so they don’t make your car more vulnerable to rust. Even though some applications do have some light drilling, it is typically done on the inward-facing side of the rocker panel, preventing the need to drill through paint and exposing your car to corrosive elements. The basic truth is that your truck won’t rust more quickly if you add running boards or nerf bars to it.
Don’t Carry More Than You Need
Maintain the car’s weight as low as is practical. Up to 4% less gas mileage is achieved for every 100 pounds more weight. Keep just the absolute necessary in your trunk or cargo space, including some emergency supplies like a small water jug, a flashlight, and a few tools.
Don’t transport anything you won’t use. Save the golf clubs for when you get to the course. Extra mass might disturb your vehicle’s natural weight distribution in addition to adding weight that burns fuel. That will make a front-wheel-drive automobile handle worse and may even take away valuable traction. If you must carry something heavy, try to load the automobile with a small number of items at once.
Remove That Rack
Fuel usage is increased by wind drag. Get rid of anything that prevents the air from flowing smoothly over your car’s surface. Take off your car’s roof rack if it isn’t in use. The majority of roof racks have detachable cross members, and some racks may be removed entirely. When something needs to be carried on the roof, keep it light and tiny to reduce drag and the chance of a top-heavy weight imbalance.
Although the running boards and grille bar give your SUV a rough appearance, they also add weight and drag. And what about that bolt-on trunk-lid spoiler that gives you a sense of speed? It’s intended to use the wind to propel your car quickly against the pavement. Better traction on the road is the end consequence, but the so-called “downforce” is actually added weight that reduces fuel efficiency. Even worse, odds are good that your spoiler isn’t accomplishing anything other than increasing weight and wind resistance unless you are a race mechanic knowledgeable in aerodynamics. You are paying for that at the pump as well.