Running Board Heights

I just purchased my first Tacoma, a 23 TRD Sport Double Cab (not lifted, standard wheels/tires). I am wanting to add running boards but looking for a model that is an actual intermediate between the ground and cab for my kids. It looks like most models are simply right against the cab and not an actual step in height. I would prefer an actual straight board style (not the individual steps or curved oval). Any suggestions of brands to look at?

 

I'm getting AMP Research Power Steps on my '23 this Friday. From my minimal research (see what I did there?), it offers a lower step height compared to stationary steps for my two young'uns and 5'1.5" wife.

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/w-drop-side-steps-aluminum.820441/#post-29427205

 

I get it and you are spot on with the assessment. The AMPs are somewhat pricey but so is anything this day and age (Brandon). Those look nice.

To the original poster @Erik28, here is what I found with a lot of looking, order/return, etc. ; running boards do exactly what you have described There is not a lot of gain in any transition of distance to height for your needs. I bought a set, installed them and sent them back.

Two things I had objectively; 1) running boards to protect the rocker panels from tip to tail, and 2) to step up or down to keep from sliding across the outer edge of the tiny bucket seat, to eliminate the wear and tear. The runners did nothing.

I have perfectly good runners on my 2500 that serve me well so I knew what I wanted to get the best of the tiny truck with regards to the aforementioned objectives.

I ended up getting one of the step down rails but there remained the open ends and open top on the configuration to allow rocks up on the panels. I kept the step down rails and tried some of the (useless) popular brand pre-fitted flaps. Not even close to rock deflection.I knew that wouldn't keep me happy.

I found quality rubber flaps (etrailer dot com) that featured a 18" length and 12" width that allowed for flexibility, a heavy duty product, and covered all areas needed for rock deflection (using a string line to pre-determine that requirement prior to purchase).

The caveat with the new flaps is two-fold: 1) no pre-drilled holes but that was a real easy fix, and 2) the cheesy and lack-luster OEM screws immediately became useless. The fix there is a trip to the hardware store for 5/16" x 1.5" lag screws with washers. Those screws go directly in place where the (now new holes using the OEM flaps as a template for hole location) OEM inserts are, and ate right through the plastic inserts, grabbing a hefty bite in the frame as they went in. Worked like a lucky charm. Now I have the distance to step in and step out as well as rock deflection with heavy duty and flexible flaps. Win win for me.

My point is this; you are limited with choices that are offered as aftermarket products. I am sure a fabricator could take exception and get what a fellow would need; all-in-one.

A step (down) rail is all I could come to conclusion for my needs. Found them on Scamazon here. Runners (as others mentioned above) failed to meet my objective relative to your aforementioned analysis and thus your original post and talking point.

Those AMPS look really nice as far as that poster's needs and solution.

Best on your solution.

US $0.02

.

 

I also have a 23 and am thinking of getting these. Is there different ones depending on the exact truck? Does bed length affect that? Just want to be sure its the right one before i buy.

 

Here’s a picture of my 2016 Sport that I bought new. The first thing I did was remove the running boards, cut the struts and weld extensions on, still using the factory mounts at both ends. Paint it black and it looks factory and is functional.