Self install question on running boards

I am considering buying some OEM running boards and was wondering if anyone else had installed them themselves. Is this a difficult install?

I am considering buying some OEM running boards and was wondering if anyone else had installed them themselves. Is this a difficult install?

Not sure on the OEM running boards.

I installed a set of TrueTrax side bars today and it was very easy.

Hardest part was getting the plastic inserts out to expose the threaded holes until I found out how easy that was too. Just push in the center spot of the insert and it drops down and you just pull them out by hand.
Daaahh:...:o.... I destroyed two of them. Throw-aways but I like to keep stuff.

I balanced the nerf bars on a box of oil and slid them under and bolted them on.
Three brackets for each bar and two bolts for each bracket.
Took about 20 minutes for the first one and 15 minutes for the second one.

I don't believe the OEM boards are that easy to install.
They use 46 Flange bolts, 24 Flange nuts and "Knurled Threaded Inserts" that require a special tool (mandrel) to install the threaded inserts.

There are Threads here, that you can search, that are excellent and very extensive on how to install the OEM's and how to make a "substitute" for the special tool.

More install pictures and final look.

Didn't have time to wash her. :(

In order to install the required "knurled" inserts (one per side), you will need a rivnut tool. You can make one yourself, but there is an easier approach. Stop by your dealership's service department and kindly request that they install the knurled inserts for you. Most dealerships will do this for you at no charge if you ask nicely. Mine did.

Nice looking Chrome steps Joz Ridg!
They go very nicely with your Chrome OEM wheels.
Why didn't you go OEM with the Chrome tube steps as well?
Regarding the inserts...knowing the center pushes in first makes all the difference in getting them out. These things appear to be used for lots of auto applications. You will see them holding interior trim in place under dashes etc... Do you have any pix of the truck from a few steps back to get the whole truck? I'd like to see how the steps and wheels look in perspective with the truck.

It is not hard...you can do it.

Regarding the knurled rivets, there are alternatives. You don't have to sweat the special tool.

Search "knurled" on the forum and you will find alternatives.

I installed them about 4 months ago....Easy to do and the running boards will look factory installed when you finish. They will also keep the sides of your truck cleaner, as there is no space for dirt to splash up on the sides, like nerf bar steps.:D

I am considering buying some OEM running boards and was wondering if anyone else had installed them themselves. Is this a difficult install?

Not difficult at all...a bit tedious with all the nuts and bolts, but not difficult.

Nice looking Chrome steps Joz Ridg!
They go very nicely with your Chrome OEM wheels.
Why didn't you go OEM with the Chrome tube steps as well?
Regarding the inserts...knowing the center pushes in first makes all the difference in getting them out. These things appear to be used for lots of auto applications. You will see them holding interior trim in place under dashes etc... Do you have any pix of the truck from a few steps back to get the whole truck? I'd like to see how the steps and wheels look in perspective with the truck.


Thanks jch for the compliment.

Actually I wanted 18" to 20" rims later when the rubber is gone.
But I found what I considered a good deal on these factory chrome rims for $100.00 ea. from a Ridgeline owner that I tagged with a ROC brochure some months ago.

I always write "From ROC member JOZ RIDG" on the brochures.
He joined the ROC to find me, PM'd me and offered me the rims. Rims were in excellent shape so I went for it.

I also bought his chrome nerf side bars for $100.00 each.
I guess I made a good deal??? :confused:

Anyway, thats how I ended up with non OEM side steps.

Couple pictures here that you requested.

Joe.

Thanks jch for the compliment.

Actually I wanted 18" to 20" rims later when the rubber is gone.
But I found what I considered a good deal on these factory chrome rims for $100.00 ea. from a Ridgeline owner that I tagged with a ROC brochure some months ago.

I always write "From ROC member JOZ RIDG" on the brochures.
He joined the ROC to find me, PM'd me and offered me the rims. Rims were in excellent shape so I went for it.

I also bought his chrome nerf side bars for $100.00 each.
I guess I made a good deal??? :confused:

Anyway, thats how I ended up with non OEM side steps.

Couple pictures here that you requested.

Joe.

The chrome looks great with the polished wheels. Thanks for the tips I will look into to non OEM alternatives for easier install.

Very nice Joe. Thanks for the additional pix! Have you considered the chrome bumper accents?

Very nice Joe. Thanks for the additional pix! Have you considered the chrome bumper accents?


Thanks jch

Yes, I have considered the chrome bumper accents. Going to keep an eye out for a good price for them.

Also looking at a single chrome strip door protector that installs between the two indentations that the OEM door protectors are attached to like Keith (k757) has done.
Looks clean with one on each door.

The gentleman I bought the chrome OEM rims from and chrome nerf bars had those single chrome door protectors and the chrome accent bumpers also but they were clipped and glued on so he couldn't remove them or I would have bought them also. He said the chrome door strips are really functional and have saved his doors on numerous occasions and don't get nicked or scratched like the painted OEM door protectors.

Normally I'm not a big fan of chrome but it sure dresses up and looks good on the Redrock Pearl.

If I get the bumper accents and door protectors that will be it for chrome. :)