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How hard is it to install side steps?

Discussion in '3rd Gen. Tacomas (2016-2023)' started by 19taco4x4, Nov 12, 2018.

  1. Nov 12, 2018 at 8:07 PM
    #1
    19taco4x4

    19taco4x4 [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Hey everyone,
    Complete noob when it comes to installs, but I’ve been looking at installs on YouTube and they don’t seem to be that hard. Am I missing something or should this be quick and easy? Thanks in advance. Also let me know what you guys are running.
     
    Tocamo likes this.
  2. Nov 12, 2018 at 8:12 PM
    #2
    tdnick

    tdnick Go Vols!

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    If you can use a socket set and a jack, you should be fine.
     
    19taco4x4[OP] and Vbpiper like this.
  3. Nov 12, 2018 at 8:14 PM
    #3
    Matmo215

    Matmo215 Well-Known Member

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    What he said^

    All you need is a socket and ratcheting wrench and an extra set of hands or jack stands. Very simple.
     
    19taco4x4[OP] and Vbpiper like this.
  4. Nov 12, 2018 at 8:16 PM
    #4
    Lt. Dangle

    Lt. Dangle RIP @stun gun 2016-2020

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    Don't even need a jack.
     
    DoubleB, 19taco4x4[OP] and tcjacado like this.
  5. Nov 12, 2018 at 8:17 PM
    #5
    SCJeffro

    SCJeffro @Voodoo_Blu_Taco

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    On a scale of 1-10 it is maybe a 1.5... not quite a 2... it is super easy, easier if you have 2 sets of hands cause they are kind of awkward to hold, maneuver, lift by yourself.

    https://youtu.be/aucOSIlh8-4 "how to"
     
    19taco4x4[OP] and Vbpiper like this.
  6. Nov 12, 2018 at 8:19 PM
    #6
    Tacoma2020

    Tacoma2020 Well-Known Member

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    I removed the Predator steps and sold them, then installed some Lund 5” oval steps all by myself. Didn’t scratch either pair but both were pretty light. Easy peasy.
     
    19taco4x4[OP] and Vbpiper like this.
  7. Nov 12, 2018 at 8:21 PM
    #7
    Synergy001

    Synergy001 IG: @pnwx.taco

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    Took me 30 mins to install both Predator steps on my dad's 3rd Gen. There's only 6 bolts on each side. Didn't even need a jack. They were really light.
     
    19taco4x4[OP] and Vbpiper like this.
  8. Nov 12, 2018 at 8:24 PM
    #8
    ls7alex

    ls7alex Well-Known Member

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    6 bolts each side. No jack needed. Superrrrrr easy. Post up pics when done
     
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  9. Nov 12, 2018 at 8:34 PM
    #9
    phsycle

    phsycle Well-Known Member

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    As others have said, if you can install a light bulb, you can do this. But pick up some anti-seize as well. I slathered on plenty when I bolted up my old one.
     
    19taco4x4[OP] likes this.
  10. Nov 12, 2018 at 8:55 PM
    #10
    awdj

    awdj Well-Known Member

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    Last edited: Nov 12, 2018
    19taco4x4[OP] likes this.
  11. Apr 6, 2025 at 5:10 PM
    #11
    Dfpftw

    Dfpftw 1luv

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  12. Apr 6, 2025 at 5:30 PM
    #12
    MystiqueTaco

    MystiqueTaco On my 4th Tacoma since 2001!

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    Probably one of the easiest mods you can do on a Tacoma. Most running steps are super light. Its when you get into the rockers that becomes a little more advanced but even that is direct bolt-on but the weight definitely requires a jack or extra set of hands on those.
     
  13. Apr 6, 2025 at 7:16 PM
    #13
    CB350G

    CB350G Trust you inner Hobbes

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    On a scale of 1-10, the Predator steps are a 1.1

    Only slightly harder than changing your license plate.
     
  14. Apr 7, 2025 at 1:44 PM
    #14
    eaglehawaii

    eaglehawaii Active Member

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    Not mechanically inclined but installing one at least the one I got was straightforward.

    I got the IronBison Defender which is heavy duty ... emphasis on heavy ... LOL. I like that it extends farther out than most to help get into the cab easier and could also help prevent dings.

    I installed it myself. What helped me was that I used the box to hold it in place to carry the weight under the truck. That allowed me to line up the heavy duty bolts and secure the step to the truck.
     
    Last edited: Apr 7, 2025

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