Removing step bars

[EK98]

I can't decide whether or not I want to remove the step bars on my Explorer. I've done a slight TT and warrior shackles. Eventually I'm thinking of going 31s or 32s. Here is the last picture I took (pre TT/War153).

What do you all think? Does anyone have before and after pictures of this? I've searched but can't find any.

I removed the molded running boards on my last Ex, but I like these step bars better than the molded running boards. I just can't decide... Thanks for any opinions/pics!

 

[ddarko]

The step bars are nice to have when getting in and out of the vehicle. I took mine off with the intention of painting them and ended up leaving them off because I like how it looks. Makes the X look taller and lighter on its feet. It also creates more ground clearance on the sides.

But I do miss having a step there. I find my rocker panels get dirtier now due to my foot looking for something to step on :roll:

Before:

After:

 

[EK98]

Thanks for the pics ddarko. I like them better removed from your X as well!

 

[spabula]

if i remember i will post some pics of mine from stock config to 32s with the bars removed. I like it alot better with them off. but im a semi tall guy so getting in and out doesnt even phase me.

 

[trailblazer295]

My X sport didn't have them when I bought it, the dealer said he could put them on but I declined. I'm tall enough that I wouldn't use them anyway I just step straight in and out. Eventually they will become unsightly when the weather gets to them but it's a matter of personal opinion. If you don't use them functionally then take them off for awhile you can always put them back.

 

[davebar]

Been thinking about taking them off my Sport too. I did the TT/AAL and run 32s. I ended stuck in a sand dune on my step bar. Mainly do to bad driving, but it get hung up them. Problem is 4 yr old needs to to get in and out...

 

[ddarko]

Been thinking about taking them off my Sport too. I did the TT/AAL and run 32s. I ended stuck in a sand dune on my step bar. Mainly do to bad driving, but it get hung up them. Problem is 4 yr old needs to to get in and out...

A mini step bar might be a good option for you. It should minimize hang ups off-road while still supplying something for the youngster to stand on. Maybe bolt one on to the passenger side only?

Here's one that's retractable: http://www.pickupspecialties.com/Hitches/springstep_truck_step.htm

 

[trj360]

I took mine off and like it better. They rust easily anyway.

 

[DetroitBadBoy]

i took mine off my 98' and it looks great ill post some pics asap...

 

[Scotty J.]

Took them off my Ranger and never even considered putting the back on.

 

[BlkSquad]

I've had the same idea but I've got a 2nd gen with running boards instead of the step bars, any ideas or pix of 2nd gens with theirs off? I'm afraid it'll look weird on mine. Thx

 

[ddarko]

I've had the same idea but I've got a 2nd gen with running boards instead of the step bars, any ideas or pix of 2nd gens with theirs off? I'm afraid it'll look weird on mine. Thx

I'm sure there are plenty of pics around here of 2nd gens without runners. Here's one I googled just now.

I think it looks good. It makes non-lifted trucks look taller and less bulky.

 

[EK98]

Well I think I'm going to take em off. I'll post a pic when I do. Thanks for the pics!

 

[Paraphoe]

I've had the same idea but I've got a 2nd gen with running boards instead of the step bars, any ideas or pix of 2nd gens with theirs off? I'm afraid it'll look weird on mine. Thx

I took mine off after my lift. Link in the sig. Be aware that you're going to have a LOT of holes to plug up or cover over if you remove the steps.

 

[BlkSquad]

I took mine off after my lift. Link in the sig. Be aware that you're going to have a LOT of holes to plug up or cover over if you remove the steps.

Did u do like the rest of the ppl on this thread and use automotive tape and just paint over them? I think I like the idea of using bondo but I'm a little undecided. Btw thx for the pix up there.

 

[Paraphoe]

I think the best option is what MountaineerGreen did - he filled the holes with hardening foam, sanded it flat, and then herculined the whole bottom strip.

I took the easy/cheap route and filled the holes with plastic body plugs. I may eventually pull these out and do it the "right" way. I'm worried about water working it's way in and rusting things out despite my application of silicone. You can see pics in my sig link.

 

[ddarko]

Did u do like the rest of the ppl on this thread and use automotive tape and just paint over them? I think I like the idea of using bondo but I'm a little undecided. Btw thx for the pix up there.

I'd go with bondo. Painting over tape seems like more work in the long run.

I think the best option is what MountaineerGreen did - he filled the holes with hardening foam, sanded it flat, and then herculined the whole bottom strip.

Is hardening foam similar to the expanding foam in a can used for insulation? I read somewhere around here that it dampens noise when sprayed inside the body panels.

+1 for the herculiner. Or if you're el-cheapo like me you can go with off the shelf liner in a rattle can.

 

[Paraphoe]

Is hardening foam similar to the expanding foam in a can used for insulation? I read somewhere around here that it dampens noise when sprayed inside the body panels.

It's the same thing, that's what I meant - the stuff that expands and then hardens. I'm fairly certain that's what he used, but you might want to PM him. I was able to dig up the post with how he did it, here you go:

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1570270&postcount=77

 

[ddarko]

Thanks for the link. I never thought of using the foam like that. I may give it a try next time.

 

[clemenza]

Hi- does anyone know for certain whether the step bars (not boards) are in fact painted or powder coated. I suppose if you've painted then it's obvious if the paint stuck , but i was cautioned by an auto paint supply shop.