Want to make getting in and out of your truck easier and add a touch of rugged style to its overall appearance? Nerf bars are the perfect choice for your needs. They provide a convenient step and enhance your truck’s appearance, making it easier to enter and exit. This article will walk you through putting Nerf bars on trucks, making it a DIY-friendly project.
What are Nerf Bars?
Nerf bars, also known as side steps or running boards, are tubular or flat bars that run along the sides of your truck beneath the doors. They offer a helpful step for easier entry and exit, especially for lifted trucks or those with a higher ground clearance. They also provide some protection against road debris.
Choosing the Right Nerf Bars
Before you grab your tools, you need the right Nerf bars. Consider these factors before choosing the right Nerf bars for your truck:
- Truck Model: Not all Nerf bars are applicable to all truck models. Kindly ensure you choose a set that fits your truck’s needs, enhances the overall aesthetics and appearance, and will fit all your needs.
- Style: Nerf bars come in different sizes and measurements, including round, oval, and rectangular. Choose a style that complements your truck’s overall appearance and aesthetic.
- Length: Measure the length of the bars to choose the right Nerf bar for your truck. Then, answer the question, “Do you want them to extend from cab to cab or just for the cab area?”
- Material: Nerf bars are typically made from steel or aluminum. Steel is more durable and rust-resistant than aluminum, but people prefer steel over aluminum for its lighter weight.
- Finish: Choose a finish that matches your truck, such as a black powder coat, chrome, or brushed aluminum.
Tools You’ll Need
Assemble the necessary tools before you begin the installation. This will make the process smoother. You’ll likely need:
- Socket set with various sizes
- Wrench set
- Measuring tape
- Drill with appropriate drill bits (sometimes needed)
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
- Marker or pencil
Enhancing Your Truck’s Functionality and Style
Nerf bars are a great addition to any truck. They provide a practical step and enhance your truck’s overall appearance. Do you still need help installing the Nerf bar for your truck? Want to customize your truck further? Check out our blog on How to Choose Truck racks that work with folding Tonneau covers.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of how to put Nerf bars on trucks. These are general instructions. Always refer to the instructions in the guidebook with the Nerf bar kit.
- Preparation: Park your truck on a level surface. Engage the parking brake. It’s also a good idea to put wheel chocks behind the rear wheels.
- Locate Mounting Points: Identify the mounting points on your truck’s frame to decide the appropriate measurement for the Nerf bar. These are usually pre-drilled holes or designated areas for brackets.
- Install Brackets: Attach the mounting brackets to the frame using the provided bolts and hardware. Make sure they are securely fastened but don’t fully tighten them yet.
- Attach Nerf Bars: Carefully position the Nerf bars onto the brackets. Align the bars with the mounting holes.
- Secure the Bars: The provided bolts and washers attach the Nerf bars to the brackets. Again, don’t fully tighten the hardware yet.
- Adjust and Align: Please double-check the alignment of the Nerf bars, making sure they are level and positioned correctly.
- Tighten All Hardware: Once you’re satisfied with the alignment, tighten all the bolts and hardware to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Repeat for the Other Side: Follow the same steps for the other side of your truck.
- Final Check: Inspect the installed Nerf bars. Make sure they are securely attached and level.
Tips for a Smooth Installation
- Read the instructions mentioned in the guidebook carefully before you start.
- Work with a proper guide if possible. It can make the installation process easier.
- Use penetrating oil on any stubborn bolts.
- Be patient. Take your time, and don’t rush the process.
- If you’re uncomfortable with the installation, consider having it done by a professional.
Maintaining Your Nerf Bars
Regular maintenance will keep your Nerfs looking their best with them with soap and water. Then, a protective material is applied to prevent rust and corrosion.
Ready to upgrade your truck with the best accessories? Get a quote with California Campershell, which specializes in the best truck bed covers, accessories and camper shells. We can help you find the perfect Nerf bars and other accessories to enhance your truck’s functionality and style.
FAQ's
The cost of Nerf bars varies depending on the brand, style, size, material used, and truck model.
Yes, most Nerf bars are designed for DIY installation. However, if you’re not comfortable with the process, you can have them installed by a professional.
Nerf bars can affect the ground clearance to a very small extent, which is avoidable in value.
Nerf bars are designed for specific truck models. Make sure you choose a set that fits your truck.
The primary purpose of Nerf bars is to provide people with a step for easier entry and exit from their truck. They also add a stylish look to your truck.
Ready to upgrade your truck with the best accessories? Get a quote with California Campershell, which specializes in the best truck bed covers, accessories, and camper shells. We can help you find the perfect Nerf bars and other accessories to enhance your truck’s functionality and style.