Go Rhino Dominator Xtreme D1 Side Step Install

[Shopshirt]

I just installed the Go Rhino Dominator Xtreme D1 Side Steps on my JT. They have a rather unique bracket system with nut plates that slide into the step and bolt to the brackets. (As I understand it this bracket design is the same for D1, D2, D6 and DSS products.)

I thought I would put some of my thoughts and tips here.

• The instructions will tell you to install the body mount brackets to the vehicle first. (Do not do this)
  • I will tell you first hand this is a very difficult way to install these steps. I fought with the passenger side...said some choice cuss words ? but got it installed.
• For the driver's side I installed the brackets to the step loosely and bolted it right up to the vehicle. (So much easier.)
• Trying to manage the nut plates by hand is near impossible.
  • Make sure you chase the Nut Plate threads and clean them. The welding process seems to have warped them a little.
  • I noticed that the kit came with extra 3/8ths inch bolts. There are 3 holes in the Nut Plate (see above. You will only use 2 of them.
  • I used one of the extra bolts and some oversized fender washers to hold the nut plate in place (much better)
  • This allows hands free threading of the nut plates. (That being said I still got one cross threaded.)

I will say the instructions seem to have been written by someone who never installed these steps. Mounting the brackets to the truck first is a No-Go!

Final results!

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[King Crimson]

I agree with your observations. Mounting them per the instructions is almost impossible without a lift and 3 pairs of hands. Otherwise, I've had mine on for over a year now and they still look good and feel rock solid. having been through a Michigan winter with them I will say that they fill up with snow and slush while driving and accumulate a lot of mud during the summer. I just installed WeatherTech mud flaps on the front and that seems to have solved the mud problem.

 

[Shopshirt]

Thanks for the long-term feedback @King Crimson. I was thinking about needing something to plug up the ends. Glad to hear no rust issues!

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