Difference in running boards?

blacktac777

New Member
Hi all, im a newbie to the truck world and just bought my Tacoma last week. I wanted to put on running boards so my kid can get on but saw a bunch of different names. Can you guys explain the difference in running boards, nerf bars, and sliders?
 
Running boards are flat extensions:

05TacomaDoubleCab2176.jpg


Nerf bars are pretty much the same as running boards but in a bar form. Some look like the warp nacelles from the Enterprise:

38255780001_large.jpg


121003d1318817105-wtt-chrome-dc-nerf-bars-black-side-steps-sdc11056.jpg


Sliders are generally for rocker panel protection so they are tucked up high which kinda makes them useless for steps. They are also built to support the truck's weight:

tacofillplates.jpg
 
Personally I like the hooped step bars over the oval step bars. Test drove a couple of Tacomas before I got mine, they had the factory oval step bar and I found myself tripping over them everytime I got out of the vehicle. I guess I'm just not used to having those. I like the "hooped" bars because the step doesn't run the whole length of the doors...and I like they way they look.

http://www.autotrucktoys.com/toyota-tacoma/images/SMBNerfStepBlack_a.jpg
 
Personally I like the hooped step bars over the oval step bars. Test drove a couple of Tacomas before I got mine, they had the factory oval step bar and I found myself tripping over them everytime I got out of the vehicle. I guess I'm just not used to having those. I like the "hooped" bars because the step doesn't run the whole length of the doors...and I like they way they look.

http://www.autotrucktoys.com/toyota-tacoma/images/SMBNerfStepBlack_a.jpg

I have those on my truck. They look good and my kid uses them to get in/out. Looks and function!!
 
I saw a new sidestep. It's electric. You open the door step comes down close door. steps goes up. The only problem is it's anywhere from $1100-$1200
 
I'm pretty sure the factory step bars would not be strong enough to support the weight of the truck, they'll probably warp. But it will keep minor scrapes and bruises off of your truck during low impact situations.
 
They're way more heavy duty than steps. And way heavier too. Ones on my brothers CJ weigh a ton. But his went on with allen head bolts and he had to drill holes in his body too. XRC's if im remembering right.
 
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