People often interchange the words side steps and running boards. While the two are similar in their use, they don’t look the same. If you want to know the difference between your Ford Ranger side steps and running boards, continue reading.
Most 4WD vehicles sit higher than the average all-wheel drive vehicle. That means that some people can have trouble getting into the truck. If you’ve added an aftermarket lift kit to the truck, it makes it even more challenging to access the cabin. That’s where side steps and running boards come in.
Side Steps vs. Running Boards
Side steps and running boards have similar purposes, but they aren’t the same thing. Look just below the door on your Ford Ranger, and that’s where you will find your side steps. A side step might also be called a nerf bar, a side bar, or a side step-up.
A side step is a piece of steel, usually tubular in nature, that are just below the doors along the side of the truck. Typically, a side step sticks out from the vehicle a bit.
The main function of your Ford Ranger side steps is to provide a step up into the truck. Side steps typically have a grip pad to provide traction as you step up from the side step. Some of the differences between a side step and a running board made not be noticeable at first, but they are still there.
Typically, side steps leave space between the step and the body of the truck. They are usually narrower than a running board and leave less ground clearance. While side steps stick out from the side of the truck, running boards tend to be mounted flush against the body of the truck without any gaps.
Closing Thoughts
At first glance, you may think that your Ford Ranger side steps and running boards are the same things. However, there are some subtle differences between the two. In order to choose the correct equipment for your truck, you should learn the difference between side steps and running boards.
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