Difference in running boards?

[blacktac777]

Hi all, im a newbie to the truck world and just bought my Tacoma last week. I wanted to put on running boards so my kid can get on but saw a bunch of different names. Can you guys explain the difference in running boards, nerf bars, and sliders?

 

[whippersnapper02]

Running boards are flat extensions:

Nerf bars are pretty much the same as running boards but in a bar form. Some look like the warp nacelles from the Enterprise:

Sliders are generally for rocker panel protection so they are tucked up high which kinda makes them useless for steps. They are also built to support the truck's weight:

 

[TacoJoe11]

Personally I like the hooped step bars over the oval step bars. Test drove a couple of Tacomas before I got mine, they had the factory oval step bar and I found myself tripping over them everytime I got out of the vehicle. I guess I'm just not used to having those. I like the "hooped" bars because the step doesn't run the whole length of the doors...and I like they way they look.

http://www.autotrucktoys.com/toyota-tacoma/images/SMBNerfStepBlack_a.jpg

 

[HellaNella420]

Personally I like the hooped step bars over the oval step bars. Test drove a couple of Tacomas before I got mine, they had the factory oval step bar and I found myself tripping over them everytime I got out of the vehicle. I guess I'm just not used to having those. I like the "hooped" bars because the step doesn't run the whole length of the doors...and I like they way they look.

http://www.autotrucktoys.com/toyota-tacoma/images/SMBNerfStepBlack_a.jpg

I have those on my truck. They look good and my kid uses them to get in/out. Looks and function!!

 

[blacktac777]

Any particular brand to look for?

 

[whippersnapper02]

Not really. Different brands make different styles so just get what you like. Westin makes all but sliders I believe.

 

[KennyF]

I saw a new sidestep. It's electric. You open the door step comes down close door. steps goes up. The only problem is it's anywhere from $1100-$1200

 

[whippersnapper02]

Sounds like Amp Research. They look terrible on Tacomas because they don't sit flush when retracted.

 

[Brendan]

I need me some sliders for sure.

 

[whippersnapper02]

They would fold like tin cans and cause more damage to your truck.

 

[HellaNella420]

Good sliders get welded right to the frame dont they?

 

[TacoJoe11]

I'm pretty sure the factory step bars would not be strong enough to support the weight of the truck, they'll probably warp. But it will keep minor scrapes and bruises off of your truck during low impact situations.

 

[whippersnapper02]

Weld or bolt on. They have more attachment points that steps and the sliders themselves are much beefier.

 

[HellaNella420]

They're way more heavy duty than steps. And way heavier too. Ones on my brothers CJ weigh a ton. But his went on with allen head bolts and he had to drill holes in his body too. XRC's if im remembering right.