Running Boards: A Useful and Cool Accessory
Installing running boards on your SUV, pickup truck, or van can
noticeably change the appearance of your vehicle as well as
provide the all important benefit of making it easily accessible
to you and your passengers. Choosing a running board that is
right for your vehicle is another thing. Let's look at some
options you can take to help you accomplish the job.
Essentially, there are two types of running boards on the
market: Those that come with lights, and those that do not.
Which type you choose will depend partly on your personal
tastes, but lighted running boards can be useful especially if
you park in dark areas - if you have a remote starter for your
truck all of your lights can be turned on, including your
running board lights, before you get to your vehicle. Running
boards are a safety bonus and add an aesthetic value to your
vehicle.
Running boards can be made from a variety of materials depending
on the model selected. They include:
--Heavy duty polymer materials
--Rugged ABS molded board
--Heavy duty aluminum
--Durable fiberglass
--Chrome or diamond plated
Other things to consider when selecting your running
boards:
--Do they come with non-slip treads?
--Are aluminum or galvanized steel support brackets included or
do I have to purchase a separate mounting kit?
--Are they paintable so as to match the color of my truck's
exterior?
--Are the running boards custom fitted [OEM] to my vehicle or
are they a universal fit?
Light kits are typically sold separately and can be positioned
anywhere along the board and wired to come on when your door
opens. Lights are very bright, long lasting, and kits usually
include four sets of lights, two for each board.
You can save money on high quality running boards by ordering
directly from an online wholesaler such as Car Parts Stuff. The
best brands on the market include Lund, Westin, and Dee Zee.
Shop and compare to find the set that is right for you.