2007 Explorer Lowering Factory Running Boards

[TheOnlyDRAGooN]

First post, but figured I would share this build since I basically did this due to lack of information out there regarding lowering the factory running boards.

Backstory: I have a 2007 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer trim, with what I assume are factory non-powered running boards. The truck has a 2" lift on it, and taller than factory tires, done by the previous owner. This is primarily my wife's vehicle and she scoots our two young kids around town in it. She is fairly short @ 5'4" and the factory running board location, especially with a lift is a joke for functionality. She liked the ride height of the vehicle however, so the only logical thing to do would be lower the running boards for better function.

I set out to find new aftermarket brackets to lower the running boards but was fairly unsuccessful. So I decided to make extension blocks/brackets myself. And they worked great. So just wanted to share in-case anyone else is wanting something similar.

I used some stock I had laying around of 1/8" thick steel u-channel to make them. It measures 1.5" X 3" OD. I used this to create a 3" drop for the boards.

There are 4 factory brackets total, each held into place against the truck with 1x #8x1.25 bolt, and 2 same size nuts. After removing the running boards, I made a total of 8 extension brackets, 2 for each location, upper/lower. I used the removed running boards as templates to mark and drill the mounting holes. Be careful because the front and rear brackets do not have the same pattern, you will need to template each. I hit the brackets with some flat black high temp paint to blend them in before installing.

Hardware I purchased:
8x 8x1.25x1" bolts and nuts
4x 8x1.25x100mm bolts

The "lower" brackets get bolted back in to the truck frame using the factory nuts on the upper section, then get bound to the running board on the lower with the 1" new bolts and nuts. The "upper" brackets have the 100mm #8x1.25 running through the running board from the bottom, through the new bracket, and into the frame.

Overall very happy and only took an afternoon. Hope this helps out someone looking for the same concept.

 

[apoctank]

Good idea, clean install, just make sure you take them off if you go off road

 

[Silver Surfer 1]

Good Deal!
I am new to the Explorer family with a 2002 Mountaineer. I am in the process of installing a 3 inch lift and level kit and was looking to lower the running boards to make them useful. I like what you did. Will keep that in mind when i alter mine. I was also considering moving them out an inch. We will see!
Thanks for the post
SS1

 

[karlos2]

Looks good, although ground clearance is affected.

 

[Mbrooks420]

Good Deal!
I am new to the Explorer family with a 2002 Mountaineer. I am in the process of installing a 3 inch lift and level kit and was looking to lower the running boards to make them useful. I like what you did. Will keep that in mind when i alter mine. I was also considering moving them out an inch. We will see!
Thanks for the post
SS1

Why raise it in the first place, unless it’s strictly for looks. Adding that leverage to the boards is going to make it so much easier to damage the cab, or frame, when you inevitably crunch one.

 

[94Eddie]

My Mountaineer has the power running boards. They are a great compromise between clearance and allowing easy access. IMO, they get a bad rap mostly from not being properly maintained. I hose mine off periodically and lube the hinges in the spring and fall. I probably wouldn't want them if I did a lot of mudding as they need a good hosing down before I would set them to deploy afterwards. The good thing it they can be set to stay in the down or up position, if desired. I do understand the OP's predicament. As the old saying goes, "Happy wife, happy life."