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- Take remove the outdated running boards (or cut them off at the doorframe if they are not removable).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!
In This Article...
Are running boards self-installable?
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.
Nerf bar installation is it difficult?
You actually need a lift to enter and exit the cab of a truck or SUV because they are getting so much taller. Fortunately, Nerf Bars make it simple to get into your car, preventing unpleasant stumbling or, worse yet, injury. Step bars also assist you while adding a wonderful touch of gleaming chrome or subdued powder-coated black to the underneath of your truck.
Nerf bar installation is really rather simple, despite all the ways they improve your car. You can quickly construct a functional and attractive set of the best nerf bars by just following these instructions, so arm yourself with some hand tools, clear the driveway, and turn on the boombox.
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.
What are the truck’s side stairs called?
Although certain manufacturers occasionally conflate side bars and running boards, ARIES makes a few significant distinctions between the two categories. The advice provided here is meant to assist you in selecting the product that will best meet your needs and interests.
Nerf bars, step bars, and side steps are just a few of the various names for side bars. The main purpose of a side bar is to act as a surface for stepping into the car. They are typically installed on bigger vehicles like pickup trucks and SUVs as a result. However, smaller cars like crossovers and compact SUVs also have them for cosmetic reasons.
Typically, side bars are built to install with a specific distance between the step and the vehicle’s body. Depending on the model, this area can change, although it is often a few inches. Additionally, they are made to mount low on the car, reducing ground clearance but offering a more useful step for raised cars. Running boards are often wider than side bars, which are typically smaller than individual step pads for each door on the vehicle.
Running boards differ from side bars in that they:
- Give the step and the car some extra room.
- Reduce ground clearance to make stepping into raised cars easier.
- Individual, specially placed step pads
- generally narrower than running boards in width
A running board offers a surface for stepping into the vehicle, similar to a side bar. Instead of leaving a gap, it typically attaches flush with or close to the rocker panel of the car. Running boards often have a smoother profile and are wider than side bars. The flat stepping surface often has a tread that runs the length of the board rather than discrete step pads.
Running boards are a practical step and give aesthetic appeal to a variety of vehicles, including bigger pickup trucks, SUVs, and smaller crossovers. Running boards often offer more ground clearance than side bars, which mount down and away from the car, making them a great option for lower vehicles.
How is a running board installed?
Although we employed a lift to provide you the most accurate visuals of the installation procedure, you can do this installation in your driveway with the help of a creeper, padded mat, or even a substantial piece of cardboard.
Ratchet and socket set, first
Box End Wrenches 2.
3. Gloves and safety glasses
4. Climber (optional)
This component enables the brackets to be securely secured without the need for drilling.
The quantity of brackets depends on the year, make, model, and cab size of your truck.
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.
What distinguishes a running board from a Nerf bar?
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.