Running Boards or Side Steps – That is the Question
Without a doubt, full-size pickup trucks are getting higher and higher. With increased load capacities, factory-installed off-road packages and taller wheels becoming standard issue equipment, it's no wonder the average pickup truck leaves us feeling shorter than ever. What's even worse, is when you opt out of the dealer's aftermarket "style" package, either for the sake of cost or aesthetics, you're often left with a tall truck sans running boards or truck steps.
And, how about those lifted truck enthusiasts among us. No other truck fan understands the importance of getting a leg up into their cab like someone driving a four-wheel drive F-350 with a 12-inch suspension lift, a 6-inch body lift and 46" monster meats. A rig like this almost needs to have a rope ladder roll out of the cab like a coast guard rescue helicopter.
So, if the dealer "shorted" you on factory running boards, or you opted for shocks and ladder bars instead of steps and nerf bars, what's an earth-bound truck-oholic to do? Hit up the aftermarket, that's what. There are more side step and nerf bar manufacturers out there that you can shake a 3" stainless steel tube at. The only problem you may encounter, in fact, is the stifling, and often paralyzing paradox of choice. So, out the goodness of my heart, here's a quick guide to choosing the right steps for your rig.
If you captain a full-size SUV like a Suburban, Navigator or Durango, cab-length running boards look the best on your ride. This is going to most closely resemble anything the factory would have installed, plus you get a lift up at all 4 doors.
For mid and full-size trucks, nerf bars add a rugged, industrial look to your rig while still providing a sturdy leg up. Lending more of an off-road style than boards do, nerf bars are the way to go when you want to add an aggressive edge to your truck.
On full-size work pickups and utility rigs, wheel-to-wheel nerf bars are the way to go. They often include a section that runs all the way to the front of the rear wheel, and that extra length comes in handy when you need quick access to your truck's bed.
As noted before, the list of side-step types and styles are as plentiful as fleas on a flea-bitten hound dog, so this was just a brief primer to "step" you up to speed. For further info on the subject, do a quick web search where you'll find no shortage of suppliers just looking to give you a leg up.
And, how about those lifted truck enthusiasts among us. No other truck fan understands the importance of getting a leg up into their cab like someone driving a four-wheel drive F-350 with a 12-inch suspension lift, a 6-inch body lift and 46" monster meats. A rig like this almost needs to have a rope ladder roll out of the cab like a coast guard rescue helicopter.
So, if the dealer "shorted" you on factory running boards, or you opted for shocks and ladder bars instead of steps and nerf bars, what's an earth-bound truck-oholic to do? Hit up the aftermarket, that's what. There are more side step and nerf bar manufacturers out there that you can shake a 3" stainless steel tube at. The only problem you may encounter, in fact, is the stifling, and often paralyzing paradox of choice. So, out the goodness of my heart, here's a quick guide to choosing the right steps for your rig.
If you captain a full-size SUV like a Suburban, Navigator or Durango, cab-length running boards look the best on your ride. This is going to most closely resemble anything the factory would have installed, plus you get a lift up at all 4 doors.
For mid and full-size trucks, nerf bars add a rugged, industrial look to your rig while still providing a sturdy leg up. Lending more of an off-road style than boards do, nerf bars are the way to go when you want to add an aggressive edge to your truck.
On full-size work pickups and utility rigs, wheel-to-wheel nerf bars are the way to go. They often include a section that runs all the way to the front of the rear wheel, and that extra length comes in handy when you need quick access to your truck's bed.
As noted before, the list of side-step types and styles are as plentiful as fleas on a flea-bitten hound dog, so this was just a brief primer to "step" you up to speed. For further info on the subject, do a quick web search where you'll find no shortage of suppliers just looking to give you a leg up.