Safety is paramount when boarding and alighting your truck or SUV. For this reason, many truck owners opt to install running boards on their vehicles to enhance their safety and that of other passengers. The installation process is not a walkover, but with the right skills, it can be very straightforward. Experts from Toytec Lifts have prepared an in-depth guide to help you install running boards on your truck safely. Read on!
The Installation Process
Besides offering safety, running boards also enhance your truck’s external look. The installation process is quite simple, taking an hour or two. First, you are required to have the following tools:
- Box end wrenches
- Ratchet and socket set
- Safety glasses and gloves
- A mat
After gathering the necessary tools, below is a step-by-step procedure for an effective installation:
- Insert the bolt plate into the factory holes. If there are no holes, you can drill them by yourself and fasten the brackets.
- Attach the front brackets to the provided hardware. Ensure that they are finger-tight as they may require further adjustments.
- Repeat the above steps for the center and rear brackets. The number of brackets may vary depending on the truck’s size, model, and make.
- After aligning all the attached pieces, ensure that the threaded portion is facing downwards.
- Place the board on the brackets—the bolts and bracket slots should be linear.
- Feed the bolts through the bracket slots. You should ensure that each set of brackets is attached to the board.
- Attach all the provided hardware. Do not tighten the bolts too much, as further adjustments may be required before the final tightening.
- Tighten the brackets to the board and truck. If you are content with the placement of the board, tighten down the brackets and board bolts.
- Repeat all the above steps to install a running board on the opposite side.
- Enjoy your newly installed running boards.
At Toytec Lifts, we recommend that you periodically check the status of your running boards for retightening to ensure optimum safety.
How Much Does it Cost to Install Running Boards?
Irrefutably, finding time to install running boards on your vehicle by yourself can save you a few bucks—which is a good thing. However, you will have to incur some costs purchasing the required materials. Below are some factors that will determine the cost of installing your running boards:
- Type of running board
Various manufacturers have different running boards for specific vehicle models. If you try to mount a running board that the manufacturer does not recommend, you may end up incurring unnecessary costs. Conducting some research before purchasing the running boards can help you select the most suitable set.
- Running board features
The most common type is the traditional running board, a flat step with a width of about six inches. However, you can also install modern running boards with numerous styles and features. Some are even fitted with additional features such as lighting.
- Running board price
An average running board costs between $100 and $300. If you need someone to do the installation, you might require an extra $50-$150. However, some sophisticated running boards with stylish features such as a connection to the car’s electrical system might require professional installation. Their prices range from $750-$1,500.
Order Your Running Boards Today from Toytec Lifts
Are you contemplating adding running boards to your trucks? At Toytec Lifts, we offer various Toyota truck running boards, which are carefully built to ensure your safety. Please get in touch with us today to order your boards and other accessories.
