Running boards are handy pieces of equipment that make it easier for pets and children to get into your Chevy, board the truck when carrying a heavy load, and prevent accidents. In simpler terms, they cut the climbing distance by half rather than making one huge step. The Chevy Colorado does not come with a running board.
However, they’re cost-friendly and easy to install, and that’s why you might want to install running boards to add functionality to your new ride. In this article, you’ll learn how to install running boards on your Chevy, considerations to make when choosing running boards, and their benefits.
To install running boards on your Chevy Colorado, start by ensuring that the boards are compatible with your Chevy. Read the instructions carefully and fit the bolt plate inside the holes provided for your Chevy. Attach the bracket on the front side and repeat the process for the middle and end side brackets. Fix the running board to the brackets and test to confirm tightness and strength.
What are running boards?
A running board is a platform attached to the side of your vehicle’s door to help you get in and out easily. Running boards are popular in trucks and SUVs due to their high ground clearance. They’re made using a non-slip pad made out of heavy steel and rubber or heavy-duty plastic padding for the feet.
What are the benefits of running boards on a Chevy Colorado?
Here are a few benefits of installing running boards on your Chevy.
They make it easy to enter and exit your Chevy
Running boards help your children and pets to get in and out of your Chevy without difficulty. The driver’s seat is usually high. If you don’t have a running board, you may need to take a huge step every time you get into the vehicle and jump out when exiting.
Provide added protection from road debris and rocks
Running boards shield your windows and body from rocks and other loose debris that shoot up, casing rock ships. They block the rocks from shooting up and falling back to the ground. This also helps reduce the amount of dirt on your vehicle.
Keeps the vehicle’s interior tidy
Running boards act as doormats placed in front of the house. The rubber captures the dirt and dust that your shoe sole may have collected as you walked around, letting you get in with cleaner footwear.
Gives your Chevy a stylish, aggressive look
You can easily enhance the appearance of your Chevy Colorado through running boards. They give it a huge appearance transformation, completing the entire off-road look. To add style to your vehicle, make sure the running boards you get match your Chevy’s design and color.
Considerations to make when purchasing running boards
Here are the factors you should consider when purchasing running boards.
The amount of weight they can hold
Most running boards should hold between 250 lbs to 400lbs. This can vary from one brand to another. The most weight a running board can hold is 500lbs. It’s unlikely you will need more than that.
Suitability
Before buying your running boards, make sure that they fit your vehicle’s style. It’s more prudent to take your vehicle with you when buying them and check whether the holes match. If they don’t, you might need to drill new ones. While there are universal running boards, certain car models require specific running boards.
The running board material
The material used to make the running board can affect the functionality and durability of the running board. Go for a durable material, like aluminum and stainless steel, as they are strong to support weight and are scratch-resistant.
Style of the running board
Determine the design and style you’re looking to achieve from the running board you intend to buy. If you are using the vehicle in a slippery environment, get running boards with non-slip treads. The step padding material can be plastic or rubber. Plastic is more common but wears down more quickly than rubber.
How to install running boards on a Chevy Colorado
Follow these steps to install running boards on your Chevy Colorado.
1. Gather materials and prepare the vehicle
Raise the vehicle or prepare to work from the ground level. You can use a mechanic’s creeper to lay down while working. Get all the equipment needed and confirm whether the running boards are compatible with your Chevy Colorado. Grab a pair of safety glasses to protect your eyes from falling debris and metal flakes. You will also need wrenches and a ratchet & socket set. Check your package for speed clips, washers, bolts, and other fastening hardware. Lastly, get a screwdriver to help you remove plastic covers from the factory holes on lower-inner bolt holes.
2. Find the holes on your Chevy and prepare the brackets for fastening
Your full-size Chevy should come with holes underneath the body mount and on the side. Once you’ve found them, slot the brackets into the holes to prepare them for permanent fastening. The holes are usually covered in plastic caps.
3. Attach the brackets
Use the provided hardware to attach the brackets in place. Thread in the bolts by hand without tightening completely, as you will need to adjust them again when installing the step rail. Repeat till all the bolts are in place. Confirm that the load-bearing surfaces are in the correct position to ensure they hang correctly.
4. Fix the step rail to the brackets
At the end of the step rail, you will find a slot that you will use to slide the top of your bolts. Simply slide them down to match the brackets. Set the step rail into the brackets and align the sliding bolts onto the holes on your brackets. Place the bolts on the slots and make sure the step rail is in the position you want it to be.
5. Start tightening the entire assembly
Once you’ve confirmed that you have put all the bolts in their correct slots and the brackets and rail are in the correct position, start tightening the running boards. Start by tightening the bolts that hold the brackets to the frame and then tightening the bolts that fasten the step to the brackets.
6. Test the rail
Step on the rail lightly to test it. Wiggle it with your hand to feel firmness. If it is firmly in place, you’re all set. Complete any necessary adjustments before making a final tightening to the bolts.
FAQs
1. Will installing running boards affect my car’s warranty?
No. Manufacturers must prove that the running board has a negative effect on the vehicle to void or reject a warranty. However, keep in mind that if your running boards cause problems to the car, the warranty may not cover the damage.
2. How much does it cost to install running boards?
Basic running boards cost between $80 and $300. Depending on their weight and traction, you might also need to pay $50 to $200 when you hire someone to install them for you.
3. Are running boards easy to install?
Running boards are quite easy to install, especially if you’re installing the specific running board specified by the manufacturers. Gather everything you need and keep them next to you or have someone assist you, especially if your running boards are heavy. Every running board comes with an instruction manual to make work easier for you. Read it before you begin to assemble the parts.
4. How long will it take me to install my running boards?
The installation duration varies from one person to another but usually takes one to two hours to install a running board.
5. How difficult is it to install basic running boards?
The difficulty level depends on your experience, the type of car, and the running boards you intend to install. The process is super simple, and any DIYer can do it. If you’re not comfortable working with pliers and socket wrenches, you can hire someone to do the installation for you.
