Category: Truck News & Info

How to Measure Your Truck Bed for a Toolbox

A toolbox is an accessory that can make your life a lot easier. It offers protection for your tools and gear and also gives your truck a more rugged look. When it comes time to trade in your pickup, toolboxes also give your vehicle some added value. Before investing in a new toolbox, be sure you have properly measured your truck to ensure you buy the correct size box. Each truck make and model is going to vary slightly, so it’s important that you do your research first. Explore our tips on how to measure your truck bed for a toolbox:

Step 1:

Do you know the measurements of your truck bed? Typically, truck beds come in three standard sizes: short, standard and long beds. Explore these truck bed dimensions, below:

1. Short Bed: 5’5”, 5’6”, 5’7” and 5’8”
2. Standard Bed: 6’4”, 6’5”, 6’6” and 6’7”
3. Long Bed: 8’

Step 2:

Now that you know which size truck bed you have, you can begin taking measurements for your new toolbox. It’s key to properly measure your truck bed for a toolbox. First, measure the height of the rails and the distance between the rails.

Step 3:

For crossover toolboxes, be sure to properly measure the distance from the outside of one rail to the outside of the other. If you’re unsure of how to do this, you can contact the toolbox manufacturer for assistance.

Step 4:

Measure the distance between the bulkhead and the forward edge of the wheel well. It’s important to note that some short bed trucks may not be long enough for larger toolboxes.

Step 5:

Depending on the type of toolbox and the brand, the box will either attach to the truck by a J-bolt, or by drilling holes into the truck itself.

Step 6:

If you do not want to damage your truck during the toolbox installation process, be sure you choose one that doesn’t require you to drill.

Step 7:

Generally, toolboxes come in semi-custom sizes. This enables the box to fit a variety of trucks within the same truck class. Explore the two types of truck toolboxes, below, via a Truck Bed Toolbox Buying Guide:

• Mid-size toolboxes: These are made for the beds of mid-size and compact pickups including Colorados, Tacomas, Frontiers and more.
• Full-size toolboxes: Created for larger trucks such as Silverados, F-150s, Sierras, Tundras, Titans and Rams.

Step 8:

Now it’s time to consider the material of your new truck toolbox.

Aluminum vs. Steel: More and more tool boxes are made out of aluminum these days because they’re lightweight, just as durable as steel and won’t corrode over time. Outdated, older designs of toolboxes will use steel and then paint a corrosion-resistant finish over it. However, this won’t prevent the toolbox from rusting in some areas which gives it an unsightly look. Ultimately, aluminum is the superior choice of material for your toolbox.

Step 9:

Next, consider whether or not your truck toolbox will fit properly on your truck with your other truck accessories such as your truck rack, bedrails or tonneau cover. If you aren’t sure, reach out to the manufacturers of each truck accessory to find out.

Step 10:

Review this easy-to-follow video tutorial on “How to Measure Your Truck Bed for a Toolbox” from RealTruck.com.

Editorial Support:

Auto Anything

Truck Bed Tool Boxes Buying Guide

Real Truck

Is a Tonneau Cover Right for My Truck?

If you’re wondering whether “Is a Tonneau Cover Right for My Truck?” you’re not alone! Tonneau covers are popular accessories for pickup truck owners for several reasons. First, they help secure items in your truck bed from rain, dirt and snow. Next, they offer added security to your cargo. They can also improve your fuel efficiency, especially during highway travel. Last, they give your pickup a more sleek, cool appearance.

Tonneau covers are available in a variety of styles, from roll-up covers, retractable covers and hard tonneau covers. You can learn more about each type in a previous blog post. We’ve also previously explored the maintenance requirements of truck covers. Today, we’re reviewing the benefits and disadvantages to tonneau covers, as well as additional considerations before making the investment.

Benefits of a Tonneau Cover

There are several benefits of installing a tonneau cover on your truck. The main purpose of a truck cover is to protect cargo in the bed of your pickup truck from environmental elements and theft. Because they come in a variety of materials and styles, it’s important to do your research before buying one.

1. Truck covers do a great job of hiding the bulky and sometimes unsightly tools and materials stored in your truck bed. While this helps the look of your truck, it also serves additional purposes. According to Auto Anything, it adds to the aerodynamics of your truck bed and “some say (it) even improves fuel efficiency up to 10% in certain cases.”
2. Truck covers shouldn’t be a pain to deal with when they’re not being used, and the good news is that they don’t have to be. If you choose a retractable cover, they can easily be rolled up into the cylinder storage canister that attaches to the front portion of your truck bed. From there, it simply rolls out again over the truck bed when you need it.
3. If you’re looking for more storage space from your truck, a tonneau cover is a great option to help provide this for you. Opt for a hard tonneau cover to ensure you can lock up your items when you’re not in your truck. Cloth covers may be less expensive but they can easily be cut or removed by thieves.

Disadvantages of a Tonneau Cover

When it comes to wondering “is a tonneau cover right for my truck?” consider these three main disadvantages: the price, the installation process and restrictions of using other truck accessories. The great news is that all of these can easily be solved by selecting the right truck cover for your pickup. Let’s explore each issue, below:

1. If price is your biggest concern when buying a new truck cover, consider a soft cover or a retractable tonneau cover. These are the lesser expensive options in comparison to a hard tonneau. Generally, truck covers range in price from $200- $1,500+.
2. If you’re concerned about the installation process, a soft truck cover may be your best bet. Soft covers require zero drilling to your truck and are very easy to remove. Some retractable covers offer the durability of a harder shell without the permanent damage to your truck during installation, as well. Choose a cover that requires clamps during installation vs. drilling, according to Bed Of a Truck.
3. There may be certain truck accessories that do not work well with tonneau covers. It’s important to contact the truck accessory manufacturer before installing your truck cover to see if this is the case. For example, truck racks and bed rails may pose issues when installing a tonneau cover. Magnum truck racks work with most tonneau covers.

Additional Considerations Before Buying a Truck Cover

Before investing in a new tonneau cover, be sure to ask yourself some of the following questions, in addition to “is a tonneau cover right for my truck?”:

• How often do I store tools or materials in my truck bed?
• Do I typically keep expensive items in my truck bed that would require me to lock them up when the truck is unattended?
• Do I live somewhere where rain, sleet, heavy snow or excessive dirt are an issue?
• Am I prepared to do the proper maintenance to maintain my new truck cover?
• How do I prefer to store my tonneau cover when it’s not being used?
• Am I sure my other truck accessories will work well with the truck cover?
• What’s my budget for a tonneau cover?

Editorial Support:

Auto Anything

Bed Of a Truck

Best Truck Cover

Most people think that when you buff your pickup truck, or wax it, that you’re removing scratches in the paint. However, this is actually a common misconception. When you wax your truck, you’re adding a layer of protection on top of the paint. Polishing differs from waxing because you have to work polish in using a combination of heat, abrasives, and friction for it to be successful. The thought of using these tools on your paint can be intimidating, however, once you understand the process and learn it correctly, you can polish your truck quickly and safely to get that shine all on your own.

When polish is correctly done, it prevents light from reflecting scratches and swirls by either softening their edges or removing small bits of paint around them. How much paint is removed depends on the aggressiveness of the pad, polish, and application.

Getting Started

Buffing is the process of removing a small layer of your vehicle’s paint. Once this happens, a fresh, clean layer of paint can be seen underneath it. Therefore, the process helps restore the car’s original look and shine. The general recommendation is to buff your car every 4-5 months to give it a fresh, new look. Buffering may be done more frequently depending on your environment and the amount of dings, dents and scratches your truck comes into contact with.

Avoid Common Issues While you Buff Your Pickup Truck

Among the most common issues people face when buffing their truck are using old, dirty rags and not using proper technique. “For you to emerge with a thoroughly clean automobile, ensure that the product finish is perfectly dry before buffing… failing to get this done could harm the finish, which makes the entire job very expensive.” (Repair Daily, 2017)

Another frequent error people make is not fully working in the treatment they use. If you only apply polish and allow it to haze before buffing it off, you will not get effective results. In fact, it may give you a cloudy appearance causing your finish look worse than when you began. Polishing usually involves a few steps. First, an aggressive polish will remove blemishes. Next, a finishing polish will prevent cloudiness.

Buffing by Orbital Polisher

First, it’s important to use a good quality, high-speed buffer. “High speed buffers will eliminate surface scratches and blemishes completely, leaving behind a brilliant shine. However… improper use of a high-speed buffer can strip the paint and damage the finish permanently by leaving swirls and scratches.” (WikiHow, 2018)

Here are some simple tips and steps to getting the best shine:

• Tape off items such as trim, emblems, and other rubber and plastic pieces that may get scratched
• Use halogens or other bright lights- lighting is very important.
• Pick up a polish that is no more than medium-aggressive especially when working on dark colored vehicles. Do not use a polish that claims to remove scratches without the use of an abrasive. These just hide imperfections that show again after a few washes.
• You may need a range of types of pads to see which is right for your vehicle

How to Safely Buff Your Pickup Truck

• In a 2ft square area, start with the least aggressive polish and pad.
• Buff the polish in completely, wipe clean and check to see if you need to go more aggressive. If so this can be accomplished with one of the following: a more aggressive pad, a higher speed, or more pressure
• After you are satisfied with the result, use a less aggressive polish and pad to remove hazing left behind. You may have to do this step more than once.
• Once you are happy, you will know exactly which pad and polish combo to use for the rest of the truck.

Additional Info for Buffing & Polishing

Video Tutorials:

“How to Polish a Car – Scratch Removal” from Refinish Network

“How To: Use A Buffer On A Car Or Truck-Paint And Body Tech Tips” from D.I.Y. AUTO SCHOOL

“How To Car Polish & Buff a Car Automotive Tutorial Buffing Video” from Cereal Marshmallows

Summary

With time, your truck’s exterior may begin to appear more dull and loose it’s “new truck” look. When you buff your pickup truck, it’s a great way to chip away at the environmental elements that begin to diminish your vehicle’s appearance. “Acid rain, Aging, Bird droppings, Sand and dust wear on the clear coat or Sun’s UV rays all take a toll on your truck’s paint job.” (Your Mechanic, 2018) Learn how to properly buff your pickup truck and it will be in restored condition in no time. Looking for additional information? We’ve also outlined 10 tips below on how to detail your truck wheels like an expert >

Sources: WikiHow, Car And Driver, Repair Daily, Your Mechanic

A Magnum truck headache rack is durable, made from sharp looking aluminum, and gives your truck the exact look you’re going for. Whether you’re looking to add lights with our Low Pro or High Pro Rack or prefer to keep things simple with our Standard Rack with a Window Cut Out, we have you covered.

Our Low Pro sits approximately level with the top of your cab, while the Standard and High pro sit approximately 3″ above the cab. The only difference between the High Pro and Standard is the High Pro has lights. Our modular wire harness comes standard with the purchase of all lighted Magnum racks, so you’re equipped with the accessories that you need for your Rack. Better yet? The harness is plug-n-play, requires no wiring ability and is an easy, accurate, fast install.

We offer the most complete line of truck headache rack accessories of any manufacturer in our field. Furthermore, our accessories are all interchangeable between all racks as they slide along our Glide Track which is the same size on all racks. Explore our accessories today, or learn more about the installation process, below.

Step by Step Installation

Magnum Truck Rack Install using Stake Pocket Inserts & Modular Wire Harness:

1. Drop the insert into the stake pockets and fasten into place. Do not fully tighten the bolt at this point.
2. Remove the top bolts.
3. Position the rack evenly on bed rails. Align the back of rack to the edge of the truck bed.
4. Insert the top bolts and tighten all four bolts.
5. Run the truck racks wire harness down between the cab and bed of the truck.
6. Unplug 7-way trailer lights at the rear of the truck and connect the modular wire harness.
7. Run the wire harness from BACK to FRONT secure it along the way with cable ties.
8. Connect the modular wire harness to the racks wire harness and secure with electrical tape.
9. Coil access wire and secure with a cable tie.
10. Check that all lights are properly working before operating.

Each Magnum truck headache rack comes with two stake pocket tie downs.

Maintain your truck’s value and minimize the possibility of opening the body to rust while using this easy installation option to get the job done.

Magnum Truck Headache Rack Installation with Plastic Rail to be Cut Away

Select truck models have a plastic top rail cover that is intended to be cut away to use the stake pocket. This video details the easy process of cutting out that plastic cover.

Summary

All manufacturers’ truck headache racks are functional; they prevent objects from coming through your back window. But in most cases, that’s where the story ends. Driven to satisfy the most demanding truck enthusiasts, Magnum has become the industry standard: extreme function combined with ultimate style. Furthermore, F3 MFG Inc. is proud to offer a limited lifetime warranty. While we hope that your purchase is always trouble free, if the unexpected arises, we want you to know that you’re in good hands.

Throughout the winter months, diesel trucks carry products from one location to the next, buses take people where they need to be and businesses of all types rely on them for various services. Diesel vehicles play a large part in the American transportation industry, however colder winter weather can be problematic for these trucks. Explore information on how to avoid diesel problems in the winter.

Continue reading “Common Diesel Problems in the Winter (And How to Avoid Them)”

Tonneau covers are one of the most popular accessories for truck owners. They give your truck a sleek style while also serving a functional purpose. Tonneau covers allow you to more securely store materials and equipment in the bed of your truck, adding serious cargo space for your vehicle. These accessories come in a variety of styles, from roll-up covers, retractable covers and hard tonneau covers. We explored the pros and cons of tonneau covers in a previous post. If you’ve decided that this is a truck accessory that you’ve got to have, it’s important to understand the maintenance that comes with owning a tonneau cover. They can be very costly, therefore it’s imperative to take care of your investment to ensure it lasts for the life of your truck. Explore these 5 key Tonneau cover maintenance tips:

#1. Regularly Check Your Tonneau Cover

A simple preventative measure is to consistently check the condition of your tonneau cover. Some specific things to check for are “scratches, bumps, dents, lodged debris, looseness and corrosion. If you spot anything out of the ordinary, early on, you’ll be able to stop it from snowballing into a costly issue” according to Red Line. Also, it’s important to check for these conditions so you know not to wash or scrub your tonneau cover in those areas to avoid making them worse.

#2. Is Your Hardware Fastened Tightly?

Prior to washing your tonneau cover, be sure to inspect all mounting hardware and clips. This will prevent them from being torn off or causing other serious damage to the cover while you’re cleaning it. In addition to checking the hardware, consider regularly sliding and fully closing your cover to ensure it operates smoothly, even when you’re not actively using it. “… If that’s not the case, lubricate the rails to prevent any unwanted traction and wear.” (4 Wheel Online)

#3. Understand the Proper Way to Wash Them: Tonneau Cover Maintenance 101

The proper way to wash your tonneau cover depends on the type of cover, as well as the material of the cover. In general, if you’re washing your cover by hand, use “cold water and a mild soap such as Simple Green, or a specialty Tonneau cover cleaner, and gently scrub the Tonneau cover from the cab to the bed with a soft bristle car wash brush. Then, rinse the cover with cold water again, and dry it with soft cotton cloths or sponges.” (Street Directory)

Additional tips for washing your tonneau cover include:

• Consider cleaning your vehicle and cover in shaded place like under a tree or in an open garage.
• Make sure to first flood the tonneau cover lid with water to remove surface grit that will scratch the finish when wiped.
• Next, using a hose, rinse the cover well making sure to remove all traces of soap and wipe off excess water using a sponge.
• Be careful to hose down the entire car to prevent soap from streaking your car’s paint finish.

*via Red Line

#4. Avoid Leaving Heavy Gear on Your Cover

It’s important to avoid leaving heavy gear on top of your Tonneau cover for prolonged periods of time, regardless of which type of cover you have. According to 4 Wheel Online, “doing this can cause sagging and/or permanent damage. Always refer to the manual that came with the tonneau cover for proper tonneau cover maintenance, weight ratings, and if it is absolutely necessary to stack items, spread them out as evenly as possible.” If you have additional questions, reach out to the manufacturer where you purchased your cover, for advice.

#5. Know Your Cleaning Chemicals

Did you know? Certain silicone-based cleaning products, such as Armor All, can actually deteriorate the adhesives used in specific types of tonneau covers? It’s true! It’s important to never use vinyl cleaners, “such as those made for cleaning the dashboard, as they contain grease and solvents that will accelerate deterioration or fade the color. ONLY if you have a vinyl cover should you use a vinyl cleaner to keep it looking new and working properly.” (Street Directory)

Summary

Tonneau cover maintenance allow you to better protect both your new cover as well as your truck bed and your cargo. They can also safeguard your vehicle against weather elements like messy snow and sleet. Furthermore, they enhance the look of a truck. It’s important to properly maintain your tonneau cover, to ensure it lasts as long as possible. Explore additional information on tonneau covers on our blog >

Sources: 4 Wheel Online, Street Directory, Red Line

If you’re looking to upgrade your truck’s appearance while enhancing its functionality, after a truck rack a grille guard is a great solution. According to Auto Accessories Garage, a grille guard protects your vehicle’s front end from scrapes and grille detail damage caused by high grass, rocks, and various other degrading elements that can be kicked up by other vehicles. It may also prevent injuries during an accident with another vehicle or when hitting an animal. “Few automotive additions can improve both aesthetics and safety; a front grill guard can. These truck accessories do more than just make your vehicle look better, they also offer tremendous advantages, especially if you take your truck off road.” (Trick Truck)

Most grille guards use factory mounting positions located below the front bumper, allowing users to bolt on easily with no cutting or drilling required. A grille guard, otherwise known as a bull bar, is custom-designed for a particular vehicle, meaning that not only will they match up specifically with factory mounting positions, they will also fit precisely to a vehicle’s front end. When researching options, be sure to select your vehicle’s specific year, make, and model. “Typically made of formed tube steel, you will find them in black, chrome, and stainless finishes, and most custom designed to fit YOUR vehicle… You can pick from one piece, modular pieces, and even headlight guards – so that you can pretty much design and cover what you want to.” (Ezine Articles)

Explore five reasons you should get a grille guard for your pickup truck, below:

1. Grille Guards Work Well with other Truck Accessories (like Tow Hooks)

A large benefit of a grille guard is that it typically does not affect other truck accessories that are already installed on your truck, such as a tow hook, bed rails, or a truck rack. In fact, according to Trick Trucks, grill guards can actually help protect certain parts of your truck, such as the radiator that is typically behind the grille.

*According to Auto Anything, the one caveat is that sometimes – due to their strength – tow hooks act as the mount for bull bars and grille guards. In these instances, truck accessory manufacturers will often include new tow hooks for use with their guards.

2. You Can Add Additional Lights to your Grille Guard

To further enhance the look of your vehicle, most grille guards allow users to feature additional fog, driving, and off-road auxiliary lights on your trucks front end. It’s important to check specific product descriptions to ensure this is possible (not all manufacturers offer this option). By choosing a grille guard, you’ll be bringing a more rugged look to your vehicle while giving it additional lighting capabilities.

3. In Minor Accidents, a Grille Guard May Protect Your Front End

According to Auto Accessories Garage, in a low-speed, low-impact crash, a grille guard or bull bar will modestly protect your front-end bumpers, lights, and grille details from damage. In some cases, a brush guard for jeeps and other vehicles can even push a sedentary object for a short distance at a low speed (though this could scratch or mark your guard’s finish). Bull bars, especially those with skid plates, can provide solid protection for a vehicle’s lower front bumper in low-speed collisions.

Please note, however, that in a high-speed, high-impact crash, a grille guard will be crushed back into your grille, which may actually increase damage costs. “The point of these products is not to allow you to drive around slamming into things… they are designed to look tough and protect your vehicle from glancing damage. Your rig will not become a battering ram, no matter how big and bad a grille guard or bull bar makes it look.” (Auto Accessories Garage)

4. A Grille Guard May Better Protect You in an Accident with an Animal

Studies have shown that a grill guard can prevent major structural damage depending on the speed traveled and a particular animal’s size (for instance, one normal-sized deer struck at a moderate rate of speed). In such unfortunate circumstances, certain protection gains can be found. It’s important to note that larger animals (such as moose, buffalo, or elk) will do serious damage to any vehicle, regardless of aftermarket modifications. Even with a bull bar or grille guard, keep your eyes peeled whenever these animals may be present where you drive.

5. Grille Guards Give Your Truck a More Rugged Look

While the primary goal of a grille guard may be to help protect your paint job from scratches and debris while off-roading, they ultimately give your truck a desirable, rugged style. “There are several kinds of finishes available, so you can find the perfect grill to complement your truck. You can even match your grill guard to your other truck accessories to give it a more complete look.” (Trick Truck)

Summary

Whether you’re looking to better protect your truck’s front-end while off-roading, or simply want to give it some style, a grille guard may be a good option. “These products, a sort of durable fence for a truck or SUV’s front end, add a desirably rugged look.” (Auto Accessories Garage) Be sure to do adequate research before selecting a grille guard manufacturer, to ensure it’s made from quality materials and will fit the specific make and model of your vehicle.

Editorial credit: Auto Anything, Auto Accessories Garage, Trick Truck

Nerf bars and running boards are accessories that provide a safe area to step onto when entering or exiting your pickup truck. They both attach to the bottom of the truck, can be made from various materials and come in various lengths. While the function of these truck accessories is similar, they have some important distinctions to consider that may play a role when it comes time to make your decision.

According to Auto Anything, running boards generally provide a stepping pad that runs the entire length of the board. Nerf bars, on the other hand, provide a stepping surface at each entry point into your cabin. However, there are numerous styles, sizes and types of nerf bars vs. running boards. It’s important to explore information on each type of accessory to determine which is best for you.

Nerf Bars

Truck manufacturers originally adopted nerf bars from the world of high speed racing. “Nerf bars, which were originally designed to fend off overly aggressive racers in the early days of professional car racing, are often pipe like fixtures that attach to the side of your vehicle.” 4Wheel Online, 2013. Furthermore, “these accessories help pickup truck drivers avoid some of the denting and mud splattering impacts of loose, bumpy gravel roadways.” (Platte City-Airport Chrysler, 2017) The bars also allow people entering the vehicle to wipe away mud and debris from their boots conveniently before entering the cabin.

Nerf bars come in a variety of lengths and materials. They’re also usually made of aluminum or steel and can hold up to 500lbs. Some nerf bars offer rubber foot grips at each entryway of your vehicle for extra slip resistance, while other sleeker designs forgo this option. Some manufacturers offer wheel-to-wheel nerf bars that run the entire length of your truck cab, offering both easy access into the truck as well as the truck bed. Oval shaped nerf bars are another style to consider, as they’re wider and often more secure than round ones.

Nerf bars offer protection from rock chips and other road debris while driving. During travel, your truck tires kick up various types of debris and grime; by installing nerf bars, you’re able to prevent some of this debris from hitting or scratching the doors and side panels of your vehicle. On the other hand, nerf bars can easily become slippery in cold, dewy or wet weather conditions. When this is the case, it’s important to wipe off the bars before standing on them.

Running Boards

Running boards offer a sufficient, or “running,” amount of foot space for entering or exiting your cabin. They often times will feature non-slip step pads to keep your foot firmly on the step. Most importantly, they are built to resist slipping in rain, snow, and other environmental elements. (Sports Wing, 2017)

Running boards provide a step-up for shorter passengers. They come in handy for smaller passengers who may have trouble getting into and out of a vehicle, especially lifted vehicles. By offering some support for entering and exiting the cabin while also helping protecting exterior paint, running boards are great additions to your vehicle. (Auto Anything) They can often act as a doormat for people entering the vehicle; a place where passengers can wipe dirt off their feet before entering the truck. Running boards come in many kinds of durable materials, including aluminum, steel, plastic, and fiberglass. It’s important to find a material that is durable enough to last well overtime and maintain its polished, sleek look.

In terms of cons, running boards do get dirty and full of snow in the winter. When dirt and snow gather onto the running boards they can make the entire vehicle appear dirtier, although the benefit is that all of that grime is not ending up inside the car! Also, both running boards and nerf bars affect the ground clearance of the truck. “Remember, your vehicle’s ground clearance is only as high as its lowest point…” (Auto Trader)

Nerf Bars vs. Running Boards- Which is Best?

The primary purpose for both nerf bars vs. running boards is to help someone easily get in and out of your truck. They both act as a ladder that allows you and your passengers to enter and exit your vehicle mor e easily. Apart from the convenience they offer, they also make your pickup truck appear closer to the ground, giving it a more streamlined look from the side.

Ultimately, both nerf bars vs. running boards work well for slip-resistant entering and exiting of your vehicle; the main difference is the style. “So when deciding between a running board or a nerf bar, consider your style preferences. Do you prefer a stainless steel or powder-coat finish? Are you making this purchase solely for functionality? Or are you hoping for a more subtle addition to your truck or SUV? There are enough options out there where you can choose to be more particular.” (Sport Wing, 2017)

Editorial Credit: 4Wheel Online, Auto Trader, Platte City-Airport Chrysler, Sport Wing

Nerf Bars and running boards serve the same basic function of providing drivers and passengers easy access into and out of their vehicles. Nerf bars are typically pipe-like fixtures that attach to the side of your truck. In contrast, running boards are a more sleek option for a truck. They’re sometimes viewed as more refined and were originally included on many vintage cars, according to On All Cylinders. Running boards are positioned at the bottom of trucks or SUVs to provide a wider stepping surface.

Choosing between nerf bars and running boards truly comes down to personal preference. Running boards and nerf bars serve the same basic function of providing drivers and passengers easy access into and out of their vehicles. Nerf bars are typically pipe-like fixtures that attach to the side of your truck. In contrast, running boards are a more sleek option for a truck. They’re sometimes viewed as more refined and were originally included on many vintage cars, according to On All Cylinders. Running boards are positioned at the bottom of trucks or SUVs to provide a wider stepping surface. Choosing between running boards or nerf bars truly comes down to personal preference.

Ultimately, whether you opt for nerf bars and running boards, both accessories are used almost 100 percent of the time drivers and passengers hop into the cab of your vehicle so choosing the right option is important. Consider the cost, functionality, size and shape as well as the finish before committing to nerf bars or running boards.

Cost

Generally, nerf bars are less expensive than running boards. They usually offer a smaller surface area than running boards, offering people less of a step into the truck. Nerf bars also have more industrial look to them. Running boards generally run the length of your truck while nerf bars do not. Having said this, nerf bars are still highly functional and some drivers prefer the tougher, rugged look for their trucks.

Functionality

Nerf Bars can hold up to 500 lbs, and running boards can generally support up to 600 lbs. The maximum weight for both accessories will vary by manufacturer. It will also depend on the type of material used to create each accessory, for example, steel versus aluminum.

Both running boards and nerf bars prove to be especially helpful when reaching to strap items to the roof of your truck. They also provide the perfect step when washing your vehicle or when strapping ladders or other items in place. Because they’re typically round, nerf bars tend to be more slippery when they’re wet than running boards. Always use caution when standing on either truck accessory to prevent injuries.

Running boards come in retractable models as well as lighted versions. These tend to be more costly but they offer additional convenience and functionality to your truck. “Both the retractable and lighted running boards are easy to install even if you don’t know your vehicle’s electrical circuitry. Just make sure to stick to the manual!” (4 Wheel Online, 2013)

Size and Shape

Whether you choose running boards or nerf bars, you will have a few choices to make, one being the length of the accessory. “Cab-length nerf bars and running boards are only as long as your cab, and will stop right around where the rear of the cab meets the truck bed. Wheel-to-wheel nerf bars and running boards start where the front wheel ends, and cut off just before the rear wheel, covering the entire length of your truck.” (4 Wheel Online, 2013)

Another consideration is the size of the stepping surface (or the diameter) of the nerf bar or running board. According to 4 Wheel Online, running board width (and shape) is typically predetermined depending on the specific one you might choose for your particular truck make and model year. Tubular-shaped nerf bars come in a variety of diameters, ranging typically from two- to six-inch round or oval step bars.

Choosing a Finish

Finishes may include:

• Black powder coated
• Polished
• Chrome
• Textured powder coated
• Black
• Painted
• Anodized aluminum

In terms of installation, both running boards and nerf bars come with brackets that secure it to the truck body, which means no drilling is not typically required. This is great because the vehicle’s warranty will not be voided due to any alterations being made to the truck’s structure.

Summary: Nerf Bars and Running Boards

Nerf bars, steps, and running boards offer drivers similar function; they make it easier for you to get in and out of your truck. “Although all three have that one function in common, there are several differences that sets them apart. Trying to decide which one would be right for you and your vehicle can sometimes be difficult.” Real Truck, 2017. When making a decision, consider the cost, functionality, size and shape as well as the finish before committing to nerf bars or running boards.

Editorial Credit: 4Wheel Online, On All Cylinders

Pickup truck running boards are accessories that attach to the bottom of a vehicle, typically at the foot of the doors. Their main purpose is to act as a step for people entering and exiting a taller vehicle. According to Bryant Motors, when running boards were first put on cars, they were installed to provide better footing into and out of vehicles because vintage cars sat higher off the ground than our modern cars do. As later model cars were released, their ground clearance was lower and running boards became less needed. However, vehicles kept running boards purely for aesthetic reasons.

Due to the fact that running boards are used as ladders, it is imperative that they be kept clean and dry to prevent slipping that can result in injuries. Some pickup truck running boards have a built-in gripping surface that can help improve traction; however, these surfaces can wear out over time.

The Pros and Cons of of Pickup Truck Running Boards:

• They provide a step-up for shorter passengers. Running boards are most often seen on taller SUVs and lifted trucks. They also come in handy for smaller passengers (such as children) who may have trouble getting into and out of a vehicle.
• Protection from rock chips and other road debris hitting your vehicle.  When vehicles move, their wheels kick up all kinds of debris (such as gravel, rocks and more). Having a running board in place can block some of this debris from being thrown high enough to scratch and/or damage doors and side panels. Although it may be more effective to simply add mud flaps or a headache rack to your truck, some users find this to be an added bonus of having running boards.
• Running boards help keep the interior of your truck or van clean. Running boards can often act as a doormat for people entering the vehicle; a place where passengers can wipe dirt off their feet before entering the vehicle. Running boards come in many kinds of durable materials, including steel, plastic, and fiberglass. It’s important to find a material that is going to last well overtime.

Cons of Pickup Truck Running Boards:

• They may aid in seat deterioration. This may not be something users consider before purchasing running boards, but passengers tend to slide out of their seats and onto the running board vs. stepping down from the truck when running boards are not present. “Ten years ago, we bought an eight-year-old 1998 Ram 3500 without running boards and the front seats were definitely worn on the outside edges.  It seems the running board to seat wear connection is no myth.” (Truck Camper Magazine)
• Running boards get dirty and full of snow in the winter. This may not be a big deal to the average truck driver, but for some, when dirt and snow gather onto the running boards they can make the entire vehicle appear dirtier. Although the benefit is that all of that dirt is not ending up inside the car!
• They affect ground clearance. “Remember, your vehicle’s ground clearance is only as high as its lowest point — and if you’re going to install running boards at the normal step-in height, why did you bother to lift your truck in the first place?” (Auto Trader)

Summary

Pickup truck running boards act as a ladder (not to be confused with a ladder rack) that allows you and your passengers to enter and exit your vehicle more easily. Apart from the convenience they offer, running boards also make your pickup truck appear closer to the ground, giving it a more streamlined look from the side. Additional benefits of running boards include protection from random road debris, and a useful tool to help keep your vehicle cleaner. They also enhance the look of your vehicle. Cons of running boards may include greater seat deterioration over time, and less ground clearance.

Editorial Credit: Bryant Motors, Truck Camper Magazine, Auto Trader