Installing Onine 7 Running Boards offers enhanced accessibility and a stylish upgrade for your Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra; it’s a straightforward project!

Rough Country provides aftermarket parts, including RPT2 running boards, specifically designed for GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado models․

GM trucks benefit from running boards, especially with lift kits and larger tires, improving entry and exit convenience for all passengers․

Overview of GM Truck Running Boards

GM truck running boards serve as crucial accessories, bridging the gap between the ground and the vehicle’s cabin, significantly aiding entry and exit, particularly for lifted trucks or those with families․

These boards aren’t merely functional; they enhance the truck’s aesthetic appeal, offering a rugged or refined look depending on the style chosen – from sleek, modern designs to heavy-duty, off-road focused options․

Factory running boards, and quality aftermarket alternatives like those from Rough Country, are constructed from durable materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, or robust polymers, ensuring longevity and resistance to the elements․

Installation typically involves mounting brackets to the truck’s frame, providing a secure and stable platform․ Proper installation is vital for safety and to prevent damage to the vehicle or the running boards themselves․

Consider the cab configuration (double or crew cab) when selecting running boards, as lengths vary to ensure a proper fit․

Tools and Materials Required

For a successful GM truck running board installation, gather essential tools including a socket wrench set, specifically sizes appropriate for the provided hardware, and a torque wrench for precise tightening․

A drill with various bits may be needed for minor adjustments or pilot holes, alongside a measuring tape for accurate bracket placement․ Safety glasses and work gloves are paramount for personal protection․

Materials include the running board kit itself, containing the boards, mounting brackets, and all necessary bolts, nuts, and washers․ A penetrating oil can assist with stubborn bolts, and a jack and jack stands are crucial for safe vehicle lifting․

Consider having a helper available, particularly during the alignment and lifting stages․ A rubber mallet can gently persuade components into position, and a level ensures proper board orientation․

Finally, have a clean rag on hand for wiping away dirt and grime during the process․

Preparing for Installation

Prior to installation, ensure a safe workspace, vehicle stability, and a complete component inventory; careful preparation prevents issues during the process!

Safety Precautions

Prioritizing safety is paramount during running board installation․ Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses to shield your eyes from debris and work gloves to protect your hands․

Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the parking brake is firmly engaged․ Utilizing wheel chocks is highly recommended to prevent any unexpected movement during the installation process․

Disconnect the negative terminal of the vehicle’s battery to avoid any electrical shorts or hazards․ Be mindful of pinch points and sharp edges on the vehicle’s frame and running board components․

If using power tools, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and maintain a safe working distance․ Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack; always use jack stands for secure support․

Vehicle Preparation

Before commencing the installation, thoroughly wash the areas of the vehicle’s frame where the running board brackets will be mounted․ This removes dirt and grime, ensuring a clean surface for optimal bracket adhesion and preventing corrosion․

Inspect the vehicle’s frame for any existing damage, such as rust or dents, and address these issues before proceeding․ Locate the factory pre-drilled holes designated for running board mounting; these are typically found along the rocker panels․

If the vehicle has aftermarket skid plates or rock sliders, you may need to temporarily remove them to gain access to the mounting locations․ Ensure you have adequate lighting to clearly see the mounting points and work comfortably․

Gather all necessary tools and organize them within easy reach to streamline the installation process․ A clean and prepared workspace contributes to a safer and more efficient installation․

Running Board Component Check

Upon receiving the running board kit, carefully unpack all components and cross-reference them with the parts list included in the instructions․ Verify that all brackets, step bars, mounting hardware (bolts, nuts, washers), and any included tools are present․

Inspect each running board for any signs of damage incurred during shipping, such as dents, scratches, or broken welds․ Examine the mounting brackets for straightness and ensure the pre-drilled holes are clear and properly aligned․

Confirm that all hardware is of the correct size and type as specified in the instructions․ Separate and organize the hardware into labeled containers to prevent confusion during installation․

Familiarize yourself with the orientation of the running boards – left and right sides – before beginning the installation process․ This will save time and prevent errors later on․

Installation Process ⎯ Driver’s Side

Begin by attaching the front mounting brackets to the truck’s frame, then carefully position and secure the driver’s side step bar assembly to these brackets․

Attaching Front Mounting Brackets

Begin the driver’s side installation by carefully attaching the front mounting brackets to the truck’s frame․ Locate the pre-drilled holes or designated mounting points, often found along the rocker panel area․

Align the bracket with these points, ensuring a flush and secure fit․ Use the provided hardware – typically bolts, washers, and nuts – to loosely fasten the bracket․ Do not fully tighten at this stage; allowing for some adjustment is crucial․

Repeat this process for the rear mounting bracket, again ensuring proper alignment and loose fastening․ Double-check that both brackets are level and positioned correctly before proceeding to the next step․ Proper bracket placement is fundamental for a secure and aesthetically pleasing running board installation․

Installing the Driver’s Side Step Bar Assembly

With the front and rear mounting brackets loosely secured, carefully position the driver’s side step bar assembly․ Lift the assembly and align it with the attached brackets, ensuring the mounting points on the step bar correspond with those on the brackets․

Begin by attaching the step bar to the front bracket using the provided bolts and washers․ Again, do not fully tighten these fasteners yet․ Proceed to attach the rear of the step bar to the rear bracket, maintaining a loose fit․

Take a moment to visually inspect the alignment of the step bar, ensuring it runs parallel to the vehicle’s rocker panel․ Make any necessary adjustments before proceeding to fully tighten all hardware․

Securing the Running Board to the Frame

Once the running board is aligned and the bolts are in place, it’s time to securely attach it to the vehicle’s frame․ Starting with the front mounting bracket, use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque setting – this is crucial for safety and stability․

Repeat this process for all remaining bolts, working your way towards the rear mounting bracket․ Ensure each bolt is tightened to the correct torque specification․ Double-check all connections, verifying that everything is snug and secure․

Properly torqued hardware prevents loosening during vehicle operation and ensures the running board remains firmly attached to the frame, providing reliable support and preventing potential hazards․

Installation Process ー Passenger’s Side

Mirroring the driver’s side installation, carefully position and attach the passenger side step bar assembly, ensuring proper alignment and secure fastening․

Mirroring the Driver’s Side Installation

Begin the passenger side installation by replicating the steps performed on the driver’s side, ensuring symmetry and consistent mounting․ Carefully position the front mounting bracket, aligning it with the pre-drilled holes along the vehicle’s frame․

Utilize the same hardware and torque specifications as used during the driver’s side installation to maintain uniformity․ Attach the passenger side step bar assembly to the front bracket, verifying a snug and secure fit․ Proceed to attach the rear mounting bracket, again mirroring the driver’s side process․

Double-check all bracket placements before fully tightening the hardware, allowing for minor adjustments if needed․ This mirroring approach simplifies the installation and guarantees a balanced appearance and functionality for both sides of the vehicle․

Ensuring Proper Alignment

Critical to a successful installation is verifying the running board’s alignment with the vehicle’s body․ Before final tightening, visually inspect the gap between the running board and the rocker panel, ensuring it’s consistent along the entire length․

Use a measuring tape to confirm equal distance from the body at multiple points – front, middle, and rear – on both sides․ Any misalignment can indicate an issue with bracket placement or hardware installation․

Slight adjustments to the bracket positions may be necessary to achieve perfect alignment․ Once satisfied with the positioning, proceed with the final fastening, tightening all bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque․ Proper alignment guarantees both aesthetic appeal and functional safety․

Final Fastening of Passenger Side

With the passenger side running board aligned, begin the final fastening process․ Systematically tighten all mounting bolts, starting with those closest to the front of the vehicle and working towards the rear․

Employ a torque wrench to ensure each bolt is tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications – crucial for preventing loosening and ensuring structural integrity․ Avoid over-tightening, which could damage the mounting points or the running board itself․

Double-check all connections, verifying that all brackets are securely fastened to both the frame and the running board․ A thorough final check guarantees a safe and reliable installation, providing years of dependable service․

Post-Installation Checks

After installation, verify proper torque on all bolts, test step functionality for stability, and visually inspect the running boards for a secure, correct fit․

Torque Verification

Ensuring all mounting hardware is properly torqued is critical for the safety and longevity of your newly installed GM factory running boards․ Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual or the running board installation guide for the specific torque specifications for each bolt and fastener․

Using a torque wrench, systematically check each bolt, starting with the front mounting brackets and progressing towards the rear․ Under-torquing can lead to loosening and potential failure, while over-torquing can damage the threads or the running board itself․

Double-check all connections after the initial torqueing, especially after the vehicle has been driven a short distance, as components may settle․ Consistent torque verification provides peace of mind and guarantees a secure, reliable installation․

Step Functionality Test

Following the installation, a thorough step functionality test is essential to confirm the running boards are securely mounted and provide safe, reliable access․ Carefully step onto each running board, applying your full weight and simulating normal entry and exit movements․

Listen for any creaks, groans, or signs of instability․ If any unusual noises or movements are detected, immediately re-check the mounting hardware and torque specifications․ Ensure there is no excessive flex or play in the running boards․

Repeat the test multiple times on both sides of the vehicle, and encourage other passengers to participate․ A successful step functionality test guarantees a safe and enjoyable experience for all occupants․

Visual Inspection for Proper Fit

A comprehensive visual inspection is crucial post-installation to verify the running boards align seamlessly with the vehicle’s body lines and undercarriage․ Examine the gap between the running board and the rocker panel, ensuring it’s consistent along the entire length․

Check for any protruding bolts, uneven surfaces, or signs of misalignment․ Confirm the running boards are parallel to the ground and do not interfere with any existing components, such as exhaust systems or suspension parts․

Inspect the mounting brackets for proper attachment and ensure all hardware is present and tightened․ A flawless visual fit indicates a successful and professional installation, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality․

Specific Models & Compatibility

Running boards are compatible with 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500, and 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500․

2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500

For 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500 Double & Crew Cab models, the installation process begins with attaching the driver’s side step bar assembly to the front mounting bracket․ Ensure proper alignment before fully securing it․

Rough Country’s RPT2 running boards are specifically designed for these model years, offering a seamless fit․ Pay close attention to hardware specifications during installation to guarantee a secure and lasting connection․ Double-check all brackets and mounting points for compatibility before proceeding․

These running boards enhance accessibility and provide a rugged aesthetic․ Following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully will ensure a successful installation, maximizing both functionality and appearance for your truck․

2019-2025 Chevy Silverado / GMC Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500

Installation for 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado / GMC Sierra 1500, 2500, and 3500 models follows a similar process to earlier years, emphasizing precise bracket attachment and alignment․ Begin by preparing the vehicle and verifying all components are present․

Multi-color LED running boards, now available from Rough Country, blend utility with customizable style for these newer trucks․ Securely fasten the running boards to the frame, ensuring all bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s specified torque․

Pay attention to any model-specific instructions, as variations may exist․ A thorough post-installation check, including torque verification and a functionality test, is crucial for safety and optimal performance․

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Misalignment problems or hardware issues during installation can occur; double-check bracket placement and ensure proper bolt tightening for a secure fit․

Misalignment Problems

Misalignment during GM factory running board installation is a common frustration, often stemming from incorrect bracket positioning or variations in the vehicle’s frame․ Carefully re-examine the mounting bracket attachment points, ensuring they are flush and securely fastened before proceeding․

If the running board doesn’t sit level, slightly loosen the bolts on the affected side and gently adjust the board until proper alignment is achieved․ Avoid over-tightening initially; incrementally tighten each bolt to prevent warping or further misalignment․

Inspect the vehicle’s frame for any bends or damage that might contribute to the issue․ Sometimes, a minor adjustment to the bracket’s shims can resolve subtle discrepancies․ Remember to double-check all connections after making adjustments․

Hardware Issues

Hardware problems during GM factory running board installation can range from missing components to damaged or incorrect bolts․ Before starting, meticulously inventory all parts listed in the installation manual to ensure everything is present․

If bolts are stripped or corroded, replace them with identical replacements – using incorrect hardware can compromise the running board’s structural integrity․ Pay close attention to bolt length and thread pitch․

Difficulty tightening bolts could indicate damaged threads in the vehicle’s frame or the mounting brackets․ Avoid forcing bolts, as this can cause further damage․ Consider using a thread repair kit if necessary․ Always use a torque wrench to achieve the manufacturer’s specified torque settings․