4" round tube steps - Removal Question

[SkiDooNick700]

My 4in round black assist steps are having the paint peel off in spots.  I'm thinking to either repaint or maybe do bed liner.

 

It looks like I may be able to remove the tube without removing the brackets which mount to the frame.   Can anyone confirm this? Looks like 2 bolts on the underside of the brackets hold the tube to the bracket.  Not 100% sure tho if its all just one assembly.

[poconojoe]

You should be able to remove the tube and leave the brackets on the truck. 

 

The couple I have used had three brackets. One at each end of the tube and one in the center that mounts under the tube with one bolt. The brackets get mounted loosely then you attach the tube, align and tighten everything.

  

I would be careful not to clog or block that center hole under the tube. Especially if you're using something thick like bed liner.

[SkiDooNick700]

2 hours ago, poconojoe said:

You should be able to remove the tube and leave the brackets on the truck. 

 

The couple I have used had three brackets. One at each end of the tube and one in the center that mounts under the tube with one bolt. The brackets get mounted loosely then you attach the tube, align and tighten everything.

 

  

I would be careful not to clog or block that center hole under the tube. Especially if you're using something thick like bed liner.

Thanks for the reply and mentioning what I assume is a drain hole. 

 

If I can just get the tube off that'll make this project way easier. 

[poconojoe]

I've never seen a drain hole on them, but it's possible some do have that. The hole under the tube in the center I was referring to is a threaded hole for attaching it to the center bracket. At least it was like that on my current truck and my last truck. There may be other configurations out there, I don't know. 

[lovecars]

On 4/12/2020 at 9:08 AM, SkiDooNick700 said:

My 4in round black assist steps are having the paint peel off in spots.  I'm thinking to either repaint or maybe do bed liner.

 

It looks like I may be able to remove the tube without removing the brackets which mount to the frame.   Can anyone confirm this? Looks like 2 bolts on the underside of the brackets hold the tube to the bracket.  Not 100% sure tho if its all just one assembly.

How about powder coating, not expensive and very durable.