Step Bar/Nerf Bar/Running Boards?

[rfranko]

First time Jeep owner. I have the '21 JT Sport S. Put 35s on it w/2" spacer lift. Now, it is a bit tougher getting into and out of the car. My 3yr old son looks like Sly in Cliffhanger every time he climbs in. I am looking into steps/running boards next. I lean towards the steps (excuse my ignorance, if I am using wrong terminology). Visually, they look much better to me. But, is there anything I should be aware of when it comes to these accessories? Suggestions? Right now, Rough Country is my number one due to cost and aesthetic.

Sponsored

 

[FutureOdin]

I'm a huge fan of how the Mopar steps look, but given that, I felt that they didn't fit with my Willys styling.

I went with Rough Country: https://www.roughcountry.com/rc-jeep-wheel-to-wheel-nerf-steps-rcj1980t.html and love the look of them.

I had the Mopar steps on my Sport S, and thought they looked good, but I never used them. The actual step was too high up, so if I were to step on it I'd be above the cab to get in. These RC ones are a lot better, as the step is lower.

 

[RAMCTFOLEY]

I picked up these they look great in my opinion can't wait to install them

 

[RAMCTFOLEY]

https://www.roughcountry.com/jeep-gladiator-contoured-steps-90762.html

 

[rfranko]

I picked up these they look great in my opinion can't wait to install them

Damn... Those are the exact ones I picked out. How true to color are those pictures? I like the matte black with red.

 

[rfranko]

I'm a huge fan of how the Mopar steps look, but given that, I felt that they didn't fit with my Willys styling.

I went with Rough Country: https://www.roughcountry.com/rc-jeep-wheel-to-wheel-nerf-steps-rcj1980t.html and love the look of them.

I had the Mopar steps on my Sport S, and thought they looked good, but I never used them. The actual step was too high up, so if I were to step on it I'd be above the cab to get in. These RC ones are a lot better, as the step is lower.

Did you find install pretty straightforward? How bad does the step affect ground clearance?

 

[FutureOdin]

Did you find install pretty straightforward? How bad does the step affect ground clearance?

Install wasn't too bad--mine weren't totally straight, and I had to actually use a longer bolt for one of the sections that goes through the pinch weld, but was able to tighten it down without issue.

It's definitely closer to the body at some spots than others.

As far as ground clearance, I can't give a great answer--I don't do any offroading. I can take a measure from the bottom of on the steps to the ground if you'd like.

 

[Mac]

I have the factory steps, my wife and kids like them and find them easy to use, they were easy to install, very solid and keep the side of the JT clean from front tire spray.

 

[aevgladitorrubi]

I'm a huge fan of how the Mopar steps look, but given that, I felt that they didn't fit with my Willys styling.

I went with Rough Country: https://www.roughcountry.com/rc-jeep-wheel-to-wheel-nerf-steps-rcj1980t.html and love the look of them.

I had the Mopar steps on my Sport S, and thought they looked good, but I never used them. The actual step was too high up, so if I were to step on it I'd be above the cab to get in. These RC ones are a lot better, as the step is lower.

MOPAR performance rock rails/step assist...

 

[FutureOdin]

MOPAR performance rock rails/step assist...

Wanted those, didn't want the $800 price tag associated with them... ?

 

[rfranko]

Install wasn't too bad--mine weren't totally straight, and I had to actually use a longer bolt for one of the sections that goes through the pinch weld, but was able to tighten it down without issue.

It's definitely closer to the body at some spots than others.

As far as ground clearance, I can't give a great answer--I don't do any offroading. I can take a measure from the bottom of on the steps to the ground if you'd like.

No need to measure, but i appreciate it. I am in a similar boat. some off-road/camping but nothing major where I think the steps would come into play.

 

[rfranko]

I have the factory steps, my wife and kids like them and find them easy to use, they were easy to install, very solid and keep the side of the JT clean from front tire spray.

i was looking into these, as well. I have heard a lot about rock chipping. Is it exaggerated how much spray I will have to deal with? I am running 35x10.50r17 tires with minimal exposure outside the fenders.

 

[Kevin_D]

I tried a set of running boards, but they were too high to be useful as steps for my 5'3" wife.
I went with a set of nerf bars with steps, and she likes them just fine.
Now, as far as rock sliders, they'll be useless, due to the steps, but I generally don't go rock crawling, anyway.

Kevin

 

[rfranko]

I tried a set of running boards, but they were too high to be useful as steps for my 5'3" wife.
I went with a set of nerf bars with steps, and she likes them just fine.
Now, as far as rock sliders, they'll be useless, due to the steps, but I generally don't go rock crawling, anyway.

Kevin

That is a good looking rig. never been a fan of blue until now. Can you help, what is the difference between nerf bar and step bar? I have seen both terms used.

 

[Mac]

I put the factory steps on within a couple weeks of getting my JT, now with 8500 miles running 34x11.5 tires through the winter with lots of sand and salt I do not have any chips on the side or in the hinges.

Sponsored