Say you decide to lift your truck to command the road and conquer any off-road obstacle in your way. With your vehicle lifted and looking the part, you choose to jump in and drive about, but then a problem emerges. Getting into your lifted truck proves to be a challenging task and one that you didn’t think of. It’s moments like this when you wish you had browsed a little further and read this article on running boards, for starters.
Before entering search terms like ‘installing running boards near me’, there are a few factors to consider before finally enjoying your lifted truck in peace. If you know all there is to know about truck running boards, our list of running boards sure could help you with your purchase decision.
What is a running board?
A running board is a step fitted onto the side of a truck or car that aids with entering a vehicle. Running boards predate automobiles and were first seen on horse-drawn carriages in the 17th century. With its practical design, the humble running board has stood the test of time and has been developed over the years to serve multiple configurations. To get in-depth, here are four types of running boards to get you started on the technical side of things.
- Flat running boards – These are the type usually installed as factory equipment, and they’re also available as aftermarket accessories. They run the length of the cab normally, with a flat, molded step tight against the rocker panel to help with getting in and out.
- Tubular side steps – Side steps come in a variety of finishes, but they’re almost always chrome or painted steel. They’re attached with a few brackets under the rockers and are three or four inches in diameter.
- Lighted running boards – A traditionally styled running board that’s found on the side of your truck and comes with lights that assist in showing you and your passengers the stepping surface.
- Retracting running boards – A modern take on the humble running board. They are built to be retractable and emerge from underneath the truck on demand. A retracting running board suits people who don’t like the sight of a running board on the side of their truck.
Now that you have understood the types of running boards, it’s also important to note that your running board can be constructed with various materials, including rubber, metal, plastic, or even fiberglass. If you have read this far, chances are that you’re looking to install running boards on your truck. Choosing to install running boards is a fairly straightforward procedure and would take up a small portion of your weekend plus a little elbow grease. However, you might want to consider a few factors before reading up on the dos and don’ts of installing truck running boards.
- Set a budget in mind before you purchase your very own running boards.
- Ensure your surrounding is equipped to take on the job and engage your parking brake before getting to work.
- Choose what’s right for your truck and not the trend. We can help you narrow down your options.
Do’s of installing running boards:
Understand why you need running boards
Installing running boards can be chalked down to many reasons; some want to improve the vehicle’s appearance, while others need an aide in stepping into their truck. For instance, a running board with a unique design would not be necessary when all you need it for is to help you and your passengers get in and out of the truck. A design that incorporates holes in the running board may also cause severe damage if certain types of footwear get stuck in the running board.
Check the weight limit with the material used
It’s essential to understand how much weight your running board can handle. For instance, using a hardened plastic as your base saves money but would have a lower maximum weight it could hold.
Choose a material that minimizes slippage
Since your running board is an external element of your truck, it’s exposed to natural elements; finding a running board that minimizes slipping or even installing slip pads can reduce injuries.
Research into tools needed for your specific truck
It may seem straightforward, but installing a running board on your Ford F-150 and a Toyota Tundra for example, can vastly differ and involve various tools. Finding the right tools ensures an easy installation that doesn’t include added frustration.
Don’ts of installing running boards:
Don’t skimp on budget
If you’re looking to install running boards to modify your truck esthetically or for ease of access, it’s important to note that a high-quality running board makes all the difference in how your truck looks and its functionality. Cutting down and choosing cheaper material or running boards saves money but affects your vision of what you want your truck to look like.
Don’t reuse old mounting brackets
Say you already have a running board installed, but it’s worn out or broken. New running boards are in order. Once you do take off your old running boards, it’s essential to use new mounting brackets to ensure the safety of anyone using the running boards to get in and out of your truck.
Don’t forget electrical safety
If you want to spring for a high-tech retractable running board for your truck, and budget isn’t an issue, it’s best to read up on where you would need to connect your running board and whether the specifications required by the running board set.
4WP ensures you get in and out of your truck safely
The right part makes all the difference, and with 4 Wheel Parts, you can rest assured that you get what’s ideal for your truck. Worried about whether you could get your desired running board to where you live? At 4WP, you get 100 stores nationwide and shipping applicable to over 50 countries. The good news doesn’t stop there. Browse and compare multiple brands at competitive prices.
So why go elsewhere when you get the best products in the market, aftermarket service, and expert advice to get your modification journey up and running and how you picture it from the get-go. Trust 4 Wheel Parts and feel the difference today.
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