Running boards are a useful addition to a tall vehicle such as a pickup truck. You can cut the distance in half with a running board rather than taking one giant step up. Many tall vehicles lack factory-installed running boards, although some do. It is easy to install running boards on practically all pickup truck models afterwards. And you may often save money by doing the work yourself.
If you're thinking about getting a running board for your car, we hope you find this iboard running board review helpful when making your purchase.
Is it Necessary to Use Running Boards?
Running boards are not required. However, there are numerous advantages to using a running board. Added protection, safer entry and exit from your truck, and a complete makeover of your ride are just a few of the benefits. They are of good quality and have a stylish, unique look that will catch other drivers by surprise. The iboard running board can withstand up to 400 pounds of weight without flexing.
Types of Running Boards
1. Traditional
They are wide, flat stairs that secure under the doors of a Jeep or truck. They give you a safe, non-slip boost into your car. The width of standard running boards ranges from 3" to 6". The wider the tread, the less likely rocks from your tires will scratch your truck's paint.
The top and bottom of lighted aftermarket running boards include built-in LED lights. These lights connect directly to the door ajar sensor when the door is open, producing a useful exterior light.
2. Power Operation Retractable
Retractable electric running boards are a premium sidestep option for pickup trucks, Jeeps, and SUVs. When the door opens, these running boards automatically fold out, then tuck away when the door closes. An OBD-II port is a control module found under the hood of powered running boards. Wiring connects the OBD-II to the step bracket ends' power motors. LED lights and improved trim are available on most aftermarket models.
3. Nerf Bars
Nerf bars are oval or circular tubes that run beneath the doors and offer a step. Nerf bars have flat cuts underneath the four doors with a non-slip grip for a secure and simple entrance.
4. Side Steps
Aftermarket truck side steps make it safer and easier to get in and out of your vehicle. Single stepping platforms that mount beneath the passenger and driver entrances are known as side stairs. Side stairs are mounted behind your truck's rear wheel for easy access into the bed.
APS iboard Running Board Review
APS iBoard Running Boards 4 inches Compatible with Ram 1500 2009-2018 Crew Cab & Ram 2500 3500...
- Package includes: (2) iBoard running boards, mounting brackets...
- SOLID RUNNING BOARD - 100% aircraft grade 6061-T6 aluminum build,...
- FULL COVERAGE STEP PAD - 4" wide corrugated non-slip step pad...
- UNIQUE LOOK & DESIGN- Upgrade your truck's style with iBoard's...
- Easy to install Rocker Panel Mount (Drilling Required), and...
APS is a family-owned company. The iBoard running boards come in chrome or a powder-coated matte black finish. Models of the APS iBoard range in width from 4 to 6.5 inches. They're made with a single-body design made of high-grade aircraft-grade 6061-T6 aluminum construction, making them extremely robust, and they feel sturdy. In addition, they have a low-profile design that keeps them out of the way when not in use.
Robotic arms are used for welding the end caps. It guarantees that the ecosystem is well-protected. They have a rubber grip on top to keep your foot from slipping. The slim construction and easy installation are appealing to buyers. The APS iBoard running board set is an excellent solution for truck drivers seeking a simple side step at a low cost.
Features:
1. Build Quality
An excellent grade running board is distinguished from the rest by its strength and longevity. This type is made of solid aluminum and can handle any task. In addition, this one will stay in your car for years to come, thanks to its high weight capacity of about 400 pounds.
2. Metal Caps
Metal covers prevent accidental scrapes and scratches at the end of the aluminum-constructed running board. The end caps are another portion of the running board that takes a lot of abuse. As a result, a sturdy metal cap shields the entire thing, extending its life.
3. Design
This Iboard running board is simple to use and compatible with a wide range of vehicles thanks to its innovative low-profile design. This timeless silver aluminum finish complements practically any vehicle and exudes elegance. The board's distinctive exterior also provides excellent stain and dirt resistance. The brackets are also well-coated.
4. Comfort
The fact that this board is composed of robust, sturdy aluminum does not negate its comfort. In addition, the upper surface of the board is covered in rubberized step cushions, making it a little easier on your feet.
5. Size
This useful APS running board comes in a variety of sizes. You can select the size that best works for your needs. This unit is a custom fit for the GMC Sierra Double Cab/Extended Cab and the 2007-2018 Chevy Silverado, to name a few.
6. Accessories
Your purchase includes all of the tools you'll need to accomplish the right setup. It includes everything you need, from a hardware kit to driver and passenger side bracket and an instructions booklet.
7. Aircraft-Grade Material
The iboard running boards are an excellent alternative for your vehicle due to their robustness, as it is made of aircraft-grade aluminum. The pad's lifetime is improved in terms of durability, strength, corrosion resistance thanks to the aircraft-grade material.
8. Full Coverage Step Pad
A broad corrugated rubber step pad is included with the iboard running boards. The step pad covers the running board completely, offering a safe and slip-resistant surface. As a result, the running board provides a comfortable stepping surface.
9. Simple Installation
No additional tools are required for the easy installation of the running board on your truck. It comes completely assembled. All you have to do is screw it onto the vehicle. After an installation of about an hour, the running board sits in place and gives years of reliable service. With the purchase of this board, you will receive installation instructions for the iboard running boards.
Pros
Cons
Features to Consider When Purchasing a Running Board
1. Construction Material
Aluminum, stainless steel, and ABS plastic are all aftermarket running boards. Aluminum and stainless steel running boards are more durable, handle greater weight, and are less likely to scratch. Aftermarket side stairs made of ABS plastic, on the other hand, are prone to scratches and offer less strength.
2. Style
Traditional running boards, nerf bars, and side steps are the three basic truck running boards. When selecting the right set of running boards for your vehicle, you must determine which style you favor and which will benefit you the best.
3. Step Padding Material
Plastic and rubber are the two most common stepping pad materials. Plastic is the most popular, although it becomes slippery in colder regions and wears out with time. Rubber is a high-end, long-lasting material that provides excellent grip in all weather.
4. Length
Make sure you acquire the proper length of aftermarket running boards while you're shopping for them. There is a perfect match for every pickup cab size available.
5. Weight Capacity
What is the maximum weight that your aftermarket sidesteps will support? The total weight they can handle varies depending on the model, but it usually falls between 300 and 550 pounds.
6. The Setup Procedure
Do you intend to install it yourself in your garage or take it to an auto body shop? For any DIYer, aftermarket running boards are an easy install. These go into pre-drilled holes beneath the entrances and are bolted on. Other aftermarket steps need drilling new holes into the rockers to install.
What Is the Best Way to Install Running Boards?
Installing a running board is normally a straightforward one-person process; however, you may want to enlist the assistance of a friend if your running board is particularly heavy. Many aftermarket running boards, nerf bars, and side steps will provide installation instructions.
In addition, many vehicles have factory-drilled mounting points in the frame for mounting a running board, so all you have to do is mount it, install it and secure it with the hardware that came with it. If the holes in your vehicle aren't pre-drilled, you'll have to drill them yourself.
We recommend hiring a contractor to install them because you don't want to risk damaging your vehicle's frame. Follow the directions that come with your running board to make it easy to install. You can also hunt for how-to videos on the internet to help you install them properly.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
1. What is the maximum weight that a running board can support?
Most running boards are rated for 350 to 400 pounds, but this varies by type. A running board's maximum weight capacity is likely about 500 pounds. It's unlikely that you'll need them to be any stronger than this because they'll simply be bearing your body weight.
2. Will my vehicle's warranty be voided if I install a running board?
Double-check with your dealer beforehand; however, an aftermarket running board won't violate your vehicle's factory warranty. If you're concerned about this, you can check to see if your vehicle's manufacturer sells a factory running board rather than an aftermarket one from a third-party manufacturer.
3. What are the advantages of using a running board?
Running boards protect your vehicle's paint by preventing pebbles from bouncing up from the road and impacting it. A running board makes stepping up and into a tall vehicle much easier. You can clean dirty shoes on the running board if it has a rough surface before tracking dirt into your vehicle.
4. What's the difference between running boards and rock sliders?
The purpose of a running board is to assist in getting into the truck. It also protects the body from damages caused by automobile doors. Rock Sliders are for off-road enthusiasts who require further drilling and welding.
They work fine as a protection against rocks and trees, as well as a recovery point and aid in returning the vehicle to its wheels following a rollover. They are of excellent quality and have a stylish, unique look that will catch other drivers by surprise. Motorized running boards can withstand up to 600 pounds of weight without flexing.
5. Is it possible to swap out a running board?
It all depends on the type and brand of aftermarket running board you purchase. Many running boards are compatible with a wide range of pickup trucks. However, some only suit particular models or require additional drilling to install.
6. Will using a running board reduce your gas mileage?
The effect of a lighter aftermarket running board on gas mileage is insignificant. On the other hand, Heavier side steps can reduce fuel economy by around 4% every 100lbs.
7. Is it possible to wrap or paint an aftermarket truck running board with vinyl?
You can use a vinyl wrap or paint your aftermarket running board, but it won't last long. A better option is to Plasti Dip them, which will set you back about $8.
8. How is a running board Installed?
Remove the running board and hardware from the box. Next, align the mounting brackets with the pre-drilled holes in your truck and bolt them in place. If your truck doesn't have pre-drilled holes, follow the manufacturer's directions for drilling locations.
After the brackets have been properly attached, connect the running board to them. Connect the wiring harness and wire it into your vehicle's electric system if lights are included.