Running Board: Easy Way In and Out

Anthony Fontanelle
January 16, 2008

It is very convenient to get in and out of sedans because of the vehicle’s height, but it is another story for SUVs and pickup trucks. Although they are still accessible, most elderly people and younger children may have a hard time getting in and out of them. Installing a running board can help in this case.

A running board is an accessory mounted beneath the doors of a vehicle. It looks like a tubular device and acts as an added step. It is sometimes referred to as a step bar, nerf bar, boss bar, tube step, or step tube. Aside from making entry and exit more convenient, running boards also protect the sides of the vehicle from damage. They are made from durable materials designed to handle up to 300 pounds. On the other hand, heavy-duty running boards with an aluminum support frame beneath the stepping surface are capable of handling up to 500 pounds.

Another function of running boards can be seen during rainy seasons. Since most running boards come with treaded pads, they help passengers safely enter and exit the vehicle without any worry of slipping. The grooved design in the pads enables the water to flow away from the stepping surface. Passengers can also wipe their feet on the pads to keep mud and dirt from reaching the vehicle’s carpet.

A running board can be made of various materials such as fiberglass, stainless steel, chrome, and powder-coated steel. Its style and color also vary. A running board is very common on customized vehicles for it creates a sportier look. It is typical to see pickup trucks with chrome running boards, while other vehicles with custom paint jobs have fiberglass-made running boards because they can be painted for an overall exterior look. Some car enthusiasts use running boards solely for aesthetic purpose especially in low riders.

Source:  Amazines.com