Anyone remove the running boards?

I have not done what you are asking, but here is a thought. If you end up drilling out the holes and they are too big for the trim plugs, you might could reinstall the plugs by first putting them upside down on a pieces of tape (painters tape). Mix up some JB Weld and pile it up around the plug as it starts to stiffen up. Then re-insert the plug, with the tape holding it in place. Let it set a couple days, then remove the tape. I would clean the area good before applying the tape so that it sticks better.

JB Weld is just a suggestion...there may be better options, such as some kind of JB putty (like that plumbing stuff) or that plastic glue (Plast-Aid?) if the trim parts are all plastic.

Bet you could sell the running boards on here, or give them away for the price of shipping.

cdubculvy said:

I'm close to a deal on a RL but it's got the OEM running boards installed. I do not want them at all. I read the installation instructions and it looks like some trim plugs are removed and rivets are installed in their place. A tool is used to flare them into the body holes. I'm wondering how much larger these holes are now and how easy it's be to drill these things out. I'm concerned with the original trim plugs not sitting inside the enlarge hole, maybe some black RTV would be in order. If it's not that visible I wouldn't care too much I guess. Anyone have experience doing what I want to do?

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If you would go to the Honda Accessory website and read the instructions for the install, you will see that there are no holes to be drilled. Only bolts are furnished with the new accessory and the holes from what I read are already in your truck from the factory. I can't tell without looking if these bolts are a threaded bolt, or a self tapping threaded bolt, but whichever they are all you would need to do is screw these bolts or like bolts back into the wholes. This would seal the wholes from water getting into the truck, part of the Uni-Body for rust protection, so RTV put on the bolt when screwing it in wouldn't hurt either. I don't see where they drilled any holes, the install instruction don't call for that to be done. http://www.bernardiparts.com/Images/Install/2017_Ridgeline_RunningBoardsBlack_AII02857-11.pdf

trainman

I can confirm that there were NO drilling involved... The only thing that was done was using a box cutter to cut out the 6 half circles... 3 per side) in order for the clearance if the 6 clamps... Factory size holes... No drilling.:wink:

UnicornKaz said:

I can confirm that there were NO drilling involved... The only thing that was done was using a box cutter to cut out the 6 "half circles... 3 per side) in order for the clearance if the 6 clamps... Factory size holes... No drilling.:wink:

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Lolwut, I think you're joking about the cut out, right? If so, well played.

Looks like the deal fell through, typical dealer BS so I will be patient. Thanks for the answers, and thanks to those especially who noticed I said that I read the installation directions.

cdubculvy said:

Lolwut, I think you're joking about the cut out, right? If so, well played.

Looks like the deal fell through, typical dealer BS so I will be patient. Thanks for the answers, and thanks to those especially who noticed I said that I read the installation directions.

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I think the instructions you read were for the ones with lights, the plugs are where the wires go through, which it was never stated what running boards you were talking about, just said running boards.

trainman

UnicornKaz said:

You'd said that you have read the instructions ?? OEM running boards ??
you better check that document again !!! :|

You searched for answer and here I have the product in question installed and now you call me a liar ?? :surprise:

the bottom of the plastic trim on the side have these 1/2 circles already perforated ( like ripping stamps/coupons..etc. I guess Honda was thinking ahead in regard to clearance, factory holes & OEM running boards...etc.

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A thousand apologies, I searched on my phone and accidentally read the G1 instructions, whoops! https://www.handa-accessories.com/ridgeline/runningboard.pdf

I'm very glad that deal fell through now!