Need recommendations:

GetMore · November 1, 2006

I am looking to add step bars (side steps, nerf bars, whatever they are called) to my truck, and I could use some feedback, so I make the right choice.

The tow truck at work has tubular bars that seem to work rather well, in that I can turn on the seat, step down onto the bar, and basically walk out of the truck. I am stepping on the pad, even when exiting. Of course, this is a Ford, with Ford bars, so I can't use this info to choose the ones for my Chevy.

I can't make up my mind what to get, partially because I want a number of different things.

First, I want something that helps get into the truck, but also helps when you exit, like those Ford ones.

Second, I'd like something that won't collect a lot of snow and in effect become a ramp of packed snow.

Third, I'd like something that extends (even if it uses another section) to the bed forward of the rear wheel.

Fourth, if it acts as a mudflap to keep salt and sand from being kicked up against the bottom of the door that'd be great.

Fifth, I want it to be strong and durable.

Sixth, I'd like an installation that doesn't compromise the body or frame of the truck. The frame isn't all that sensitive, but I am not sure about drilling into the body.

Tubular rails won't collect snow, usually don't need drilling, and are strong, but they don't extend past the cab, and usually have a small pad. In the winter, when it gets icy I want to have a flat, non-metallic surface to step onto.

Extruded steps act as mudflaps, can extend to the rear tire, and have plenty of step area, but I think they need body holes, and they can get snow built up on them. Without the large void area of the tubular steps it isn't easy to kick the snow.ice off.

So, please give me your experiences, positive and negative with these products.

wht2500hd... · November 2, 2006

JC Whitney has the extended ones. no drilling. get chrome or ss. before mounting spray the inside tubes with a corrosion blocker even use spray grease. be sure to completely wipe all bolts with caulk before installing. after installing then spray paint the bolts to prevent rust. wax the underside of the tubes.

caulking the bolt threads helps to prevent rust. pay attention to proper torque values for chassis bolts 55-65 ft lbs.

you could also spray foam into the tubes before installing to minimize rusting.

jlsk624 · November 2, 2006

Check out truckparts411.com, they have stainless oval tubes with welded end caps, I have a set and they are great, price is also good.

Valsport · November 2, 2006

my favorite ones that look a little different than everybody else's are made by N-Fab, you can search yahoo and thier site comes up.

GetMore · November 4, 2006

Valsport, they don't list anything for a regular cab, long bed truck.

jlsk624, those look nice, can you tell me what cab and bed combo you have?

Thanks!

jlsk624 · November 4, 2006

2006 2500hd ext cab short bed 4x4, I like these steps because of the ends being welded closed, and that the steps are not recessed, the only thing I did different was I put stainless bolts in the bottoms of the mounting points. I found them on e-bay, but called company direct.