Running Boards
There's a reason your truck stands up tall. You need to
be able to safely power through off-road conditions without
worrying about damaging the critical components underneath it.
We offer a variety of accessories to help counter the height of
your vehicle's doorsill, including electric and non-electric
truck running boards, nerf bars, side steps, and more.
be able to safely power through off-road conditions without
worrying about damaging the critical components underneath it.
We offer a variety of accessories to help counter the height of
your vehicle's doorsill, including electric and non-electric
truck running boards, nerf bars, side steps, and more.
What is a Running Board?
Running boards, nerf bars, side steps, etc. are all vehicle accessories that provide a safe platform for passengers to step on when entering or exiting a vehicle. They can be made from various materials, come in different lengths, and attach to the bottom of the vehicle. While all of these accessories function the same, they have distinctions that will help you make an informed decision on which is best for your vehicle and lifestyle.
Types of Steps
If you are looking to add a step into your truck or SUV, there are many differently styles of steps to choose from, a few of which we have listed in further detail below.
With so many styles to choose from, the question is which is the right choice for your truck and lifestyle. If you’re using it for work and hauling heavy loads around you would opt for a heavy duty running board that can withold more weight, like an electronically powered one. If you’re using your truck as a daily driver and want more of a sportier look, then nerf bars would be the direction to head in. If you're interested in adding step bars but unsure exactly which ones, come talk to one of our professionals who can help you make an infomred decision.
Running Boards
Running boards sit roughly 3 inches below the doorsill and they are long platform like steps that typically run the length of the cab or from wheel-to-wheel. They extend out 3-4 inches to give passengers a solid, flat footing area to make access to the cab easier.
Running Boards with Drop Steps
If you're looking for more support to your running board, we do also have drop steps availabe. This step is ideal for lifted vehicles with large tires, or for those passengers who are shorter and need an extra boost to get into their vehicle.
Electric Power Running Boards
Driving down the beach, logging roads, or hauling heavy loads is a necessity for your 4x4 vehicle. Continuously jumping in and out of your vehicle is not the way to go as it can take a toll on your body. Lum's has electric power running boards aimed at helping make your travel smoother and save passengers from aches and pains. Our electric power running boards are for those that want them to only be visible when they are in use. They will drop down when the door is opened and retract when the door is closed. Let Lum's help you out by installing electric power running boards to take your vehicle up a notch.
Nerf Bars
Nerf bars are tubular bars that have a wide diameter and are mounted to the rocker panel of a truck to reduce the distance from ground to truck cabin. They are typically made from carbon or stainless steel and come with an optional rubber footing area to prevnt passengers from slipping. Nerf bars generally run the length of the vehicles cab but can also be installed wheel-to-wheel to provide access to the truck bed.
Hitch Step
The hitch step is an accessory meant for 4x4 vehicles. It is attached to the trailer hitch to provide a step up to your truck bed or cargo hold. The hitch step protects the rear bumper by eliminating the need for it to be used as a place to step. Whether you are trying to load or unload your car or clean off the roof of your vehicle, a hitch step makes a complex task simple. Keep in mind when purchasing a hitch step, different hitch steps will fit different sized receivers.
Rock Sliders
Rock sliders are an aftermarket accessory built for 4x4 wheel vehicle owners who engage in off-roading. They are thick pieces of steel that are bolted or welded to the frame of the vehicle, designed to protect the doorsills and panels from being damaged during off-roading or rock-crawling.
Rear Van Doorstep
A rear van doorstep is a running board that spans the width of the back of a transit van, and creates an easier step up into the back. It is a flat, sturdy, non-slip surface that is very helpful in poor weather conditions.
1. Why Install Running Boards?
Running boards are a great accessory to upgrade the look of any vehicle, especially for those vehicles that are lifted and difficult to get into. Young kids and elderly people can also benefit from the simplicity that a nerf bar or running board provides. Don’t spend time leaping into your truck, jeep, or SUV. Instead, let Lum’s professional team install high quality running boards to make entering and exiting your vehicle seamless.
2. How long is the manufacturer's warranty for running boards?
The warranty on your running boards depends on the manufacturer and who installed the accessory. Call or visit Lum’s Auto Center for more information regarding warranties on nerf bars and side steps.
3. What is the weight capacity of running boards and nerf bars?
Running boards can range anywhere from 300lb capacity to 600lb capacity per side. Nerf bars typically hold a maximum of 300lbs per side.
4. What is the difference between a nerf bar and a running board?
Running boards and nerf bars essentially serve the same purpose but have a different look to them. Running boards are a flat surface with more of a formal look that is great for families with young children. Nerf Bars are tube shaped bars that do not have as much surface area but often have rubber stepping pads beneath the doors. Nerf bars are known to give off more of a sportier look.
5. How much more does an electric running board cost compared to a non-electric?
The simplest running boards can cost as low as $100, whereas top-end electric running boards can cost over $2,000. There are many options in between for everyone to find the design they want at a price they can afford.
6. Where to purchase running boards with lights?
Lum’s has a selection of running boards that come with LED lights to help illuminate the running board itself or the terrain below it.
7. What is the purpose of running boards?
1.The main purpose of running boards is to make for an easier step up into the vehicle.
2.Running boards are also used to prevent damage to the rocker area underneath the vehicle by blocking out road debris and minor side collisions.
3.Running boards create give an aesthetic appeal to a vehicle that can make it unique compared to other similar models and trim levels.
8. Where to find running boards near me?
Lum's Auto Center has running boards, nerf bars, side steps, etc. available for purchase. We have professionally trained technicians ready to install your new steps on your vehicle. Schedule an appointment online at lumsautocenter.com/schedule-service.html or reach our accessories team at (503)861-1144.