Nerf bars / running boards

Jdkh2001 · 08-30-2020, 10:28 AM

Hey Forum, I got this new van and it has never had nerf bars but it sure needs them. I have struck out with Aluminess do to the location of the plumbing on the drivers side. Please recommend where I can purchase nerf bars / running boards that may work for this application. The total length of where the nerf bars would be installed is 120.5 in or 10ft 1/2 inch.

WhitH · 08-30-2020, 10:50 AM

I’d contact Weldtec Designs. You may need some customization, but they make legitimate sliders for GM vans.

Congrats on the purchase by the way. You scored a good one.

Jdkh2001 · 08-30-2020, 12:43 PM

You’re the reason the forum rocks. Helpful, kind people sorta like the world needs now. Thank you
Joe

awiggin2 · 08-30-2020, 10:41 PM

I had a similar problem due to a ladder on the side of my van, that starts just in front of the rear drivers side wheel well. I bought n-fab nerf bars and had a fabricator cut off the final ~12 inches. Looks and works great, and for about half the price of Aluminess.

BrianW · 08-31-2020, 05:09 AM

Similar question: I bought a set of Aluminess nerf bars/steps (secondhand) to put on my 2011 SMB. But, it looks like it may conflict with the passenger-side gray water tank drain. Has anyone dealt with this issue? I can’t just easily hold the step up to eyeball it since I currently have OEM running boards on the van and will have to remove them.

marret · 08-31-2020, 08:45 AM

I’ve been pondering nerf bars or running boards as well. Driver side can only be front door length due to Starcool, water, etc.

I decided Weldtec sliders were too heavy and the mentioned driver side frame obstructions.

Running Board Warehouse has some and found some on autoanything.com.
https://runningboardwarehouse.com/v/...ress-van/2008/
https://www.autoanything.com/

No experience with either.

Jdkh2001 · 08-31-2020, 10:08 AM

I appreciate you’re information and trying to help me out. Thank you - Joe

BrianW · 08-31-2020, 12:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by marret

I’ve been pondering nerf bars or running boards as well. Driver side can only be front door length due to Starcool, water, etc.

I decided Weldtec sliders were too heavy and the mentioned driver side frame obstructions.

Running Board Warehouse has some and found some on autoanything.com.
https://runningboardwarehouse.com/v/...ress-van/2008/
https://www.autoanything.com/

No experience with either.

The OEM running boards are still the nicest I’ve come across. They pop up on craigslist now and again, or even in junkyards rarely.

Jdkh2001 · 08-31-2020, 01:17 PM

Real good advice - thanks

Metaltipsandtricks · 09-06-2020, 11:58 AM

I did a video on this subject for my van a few month back we used 4140 chromoly steal. It’s Stronger then aluminum , Bounces off rocks better, and is just as lite. please check it out it might help you with your challenge.
“Build something cool” on YouTube here is the link to the video