Running boards are narrow steps fitted under the side doors of a car or truck. They help entry and exit, especially into high vehicles. They serve as a step to a vehicle’s cabin. Running boards may also be used to stand on while the vehicle is moving. Nowadays, however, running boards can be installed on just about any vehicle, even those that don’t need one. They are stylish and unique, and can enhance the muscled look of the vehicle.
If you drive a Chevy Silverado, installing running boards isn’t a bad idea at all. The cost to put running boards on a truck like this is not high and the installation process is easy, especially when you don’t need to drill holes. Running boards can provide additional safety, preventing the side of the vehicle from directly being hit by another vehicle or anything. Also, with the truck having a bit higher ground clearance, putting a running board can help make entry and exit more comfortable.
Before purchasing running boards to install on your vehicle, you need to find suitable running boards that fit your car model and suit your needs.
Types of Running Boards Available for Chevy Silverado
Running boards come in different shapes and designs. When looking for Chevy Silverado running boards, the following are some of available options.
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Cab-length Chevy board
It is covered from the back of the forward wheel and goes towards the behind of doors. This running board type gets you two-step pads to ensure you get a slip-free experience. It is one of the most preferred running boards in the market.
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Wheel to Wheel design
The wheel-to-wheel design is installed from the back of the car that goes towards the front tires. One advantage of this nerf bar is that you can access the bed and roof of your truck easily. As they are covered from wheel to wheel, you get higher security.
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Oval design
These have more space to keep your foot on the plate and offer better stability. The oval design could be the best choice, especially if you live in a snowy area. These are comfortable for passengers to get in or out of the vehicle.
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Sports-type running boards
If you want something fancier for your modified Chevy Silverado truck, this could be a good choice. Since they come with a smaller diameter, they give a sleek and stylish look when installed on your car.
Best Running Boards for Chevy Silverado
Below are our top 3 picks for best running boards for Chevy Silverado:
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Tyger Auto TG-RS2C40048 RISER
These Tyger Auto TG-RS2C40048 Riser panel-mount side step bars can fit a 2007-2018 Chevy Silverado. It features 4-inch wide, UV-resistant pads that keep your passengers safe as they enter and exit your vehicle. The triangulated tube is ideal for high strength durability while accommodating the need for increased ground clearance. There is no drilling necessary during installation as they have a simple bolt-on installation process.
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TAC Side Steps 3” Stainless Steel Side Bars
These TAC side step bars can fit perfectly on any Chevy Silverado model. They feature UV-resistant non-slip 3 inches wide step pads. The bars have a polished chrome finish to maximize rust and corrosion protection. With their bolt-on installation process, they are easy to install as no drilling or cutting is required.
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Tyger Auto TG-AM2C20128 Star Armor Kit
The Tyger Auto TG-AM2C20128 is another good option if looking for a side step for Chevy Silverado. It fits on a 2007-2018 Chevy Silverado crew cab. It features a triple tube design. All tubes have sealed end caps to keep water and dirt out and extend the life of the boards. The heavy-duty 2-inch diameter tubes can handle up to 300 lbs weight capacity for each side. They also feature an easy bolt-on installation but trimming is needed on the plastic DEF tank cover on 2017-up models.
You can find more running board recommendations here.
How to install running boards on a Chevy Silverado
When installing running boards, the first thing is to ensure you have all the hardware and components you will need. Typically, the bolts and other things come with the running boards.
Then, follow these steps to install the running boards on your Chevy Silverado:
- First, search for the pre-drilled holes underneath the vehicle. Start from the driver’s side first. You should see some holes which are kept there so that you can install the running board if you need to.
- Once you have located the holes, remove the rubber plug from the larger hole. The clip nut will go into the larger hole and the other holes are for the threaded nut. If you don’t experience any problem at the time of mounting, mount the remaining two brackets of this side. Tighten the nuts properly so that the brackets remain strong at their positions.
- Now, it is time to place the running board. Position the running board on the mounting brackets and make sure it matches the bolts along with it. Do not slide or slide the running board to avoid damages. The running board has to be aligned 3 inches back from the wheel opening. Make sure that the board is not a barrier to something and that you have positioned it where you will get maximum comfort while getting in or coming out of the truck. When done, attach the board with bolts but do not over tighten the hardware (you can tighten it once the running board is level and adjusted).
- Next, move to the passenger side of the Chevy Silverado. When doing the installation on this side, make sure that the boards and mounting hardware do not interfere with the fuel tank or lower tank under the tray. If there is interference, the tank or tray will need to be dropped a bit.
- Proceed with the installation of the running board on the passenger side as you did on the driver’s side. When you are through with the installation, make sure the bolts are properly tightened and the hardware is not loose.
Finally, get in the car and come out a few times to make sure that the installation is perfectly done. If everything is fine and the running boards are strong, then you are all set.