Running Boards and Side Steps FAQ

  • Side Steps
  • Running Boards
    • Oval Side Steps

      If you do not feel comfortable getting into your truck because of its height, you may be interested in installing a side step to help you with that. Side steps are great solution for those, who have hard time getting to the bed of their truck. If that is something you are willing to try, check out our answers to frequently asked questions. There are different types, colors and finishes side steps are available in. Keep reading to find out more!

      What is the difference between running boards and side steps?

      There are two types of aftermarket products that are referred to as side steps. Nerf bars are sometimes referred to as tubular side steps. They are long steps that cover the whole side of the vehicle (door-to-door or wheel-to-wheel). There are individual side steps that are smaller and are designed for 1 feet to step onto it.

      What are the steps on trucks called?

      If by ‘steps’ you mean prolonged metal bars that run under the truck doors, you can say nerf bars or side tubes, truck steps or step bars, side steps or step rails, or running boards. If you are talking about small steps only 1 person can step at, they are just steps or side steps. If such step attaches to the hitch receiver, it’s called hitch step.

      What is truck bed side step?

      Truck bed side step is a small step that is mounted to the frame of the truck under the bed area. It features bolt-on installation, and the main function is to allow the truck owner access the bed area by stepping on it. Also, there are hitch mount bed side steps, that install using the hitch receiver.

      What is retractable truck step?

      Function of retractable steps is to allow access to the truck bed or easier truck access. As a rule, retractable steps are small, and one can step on it with 1 foot only. When not in use, such steps retract and ‘hide’ under the truck until you need one.

      What is the most popular Bully side step?

      According to the truck step sales, the step part #BBS-1103 is the most popular one. According to the Amazon reviews, it is selected by the customers because of its price, ease of installation and durability.

    • Many American truck and SUV owners choose upgrading their vehicles with a set of running boards or nerf bars for custom looks and protection. There are several reasons for a truck owner to select a set of running boards for their vehicle. First, it is way easier to get into the truck, as well as get out of it, when you have extra support. Owners of lifted trucks will benefit of this upgrade as well. Next, running boards protect the vehicle from side impact in minor collisions or when you park. This way, you are getting a scratch on the running board, but not a dented door or rocker. Keep reading to find out more!

      What are the best running boards?

      Not commenting on the brand, we have picked several criteria the best running boards meet:

      • the best running boards feature not less, than 3-5-year warranty;
      • the best running boards are made in the U.S.;
      • the best running boards have got mounting hardware included into the kit (you do not have to buy it separately);
      • it’s better to avoid no-name brands that offer their running boards and do not specify where they are made.
      Can you remove running boards?

      The short answer is ‘yes’, as 95% of running boards that are available for the US-built vehicles feature bolt-on installation and attach to the frame of the vehicle by means of bolts and mounting hardware. So if you have basic skills and tools, you will be able to remove running boards by yourself. In average, it will take you between 30 and 40 minutes to remove the running boards. Note, that if the bolts got rusty, you may need WD-40 to easily remove them.

      What is the difference between nerf bars and running boards?

      Running boards and nerf bars are installed the same way and for the same purpose. The only difference is the stepping area. If you are looking for larger stepping area, running boards are the way to go. If you are more into aesthetics and simply want to add up your bull bar with something extra, you may be interested in adding a set of nerf bars.

      How much weight can running boards hold?

      American aftermarket offers 2 running board options in terms of weight capacity:

      • typical running boards can hold 300 lbs at a time;
      • running boards with aluminum support under the stepping surface can hold up to 500 lbs at a time.
      Why have running boards?

      There are 2 main reasons running boards are so popular among American truck and SUV owners:

      • It is easier to get into a truck when you have got extra step support;
      • Running boards protect rocker area of the vehicle from road debris and minor side collisions.

    Bully® is an indisputable leader in the design and manufacture of the highest quality, innovative truck accessories designed to outlast and outperform and keep you on the leading-edge. Giving you the advantage of the state-of-the-art recycled tires nano technology, Bully offers the patented, rugged exterior liners that create an extremely durable anti-skid, waterproof surface, allowing you to safeguard your truck bed against dents, scratches and rust – for the life of your truck. The brand also provides an extensive line of other truck bed accessories, including bars and step bars, tonneau covers, gas doors and covers, hitch ball and ball mounts, stainless steel trim, trailer lights, and many more. All Bully products are fully custom designed to provide your truck with high-end quality fitting utility and give it a one-of-a-kind look that will command attention.