Side steps are a narrow, single step that serve the same purpose as a running board. These can be installed on the side of a truck or SUV underneath the passenger doors, or behind the rear axle on a truck to help the user access the bed more easily.
What is a stepside pickup truck?
Unlike Ford, GM’s first pickup trucks were available not only in traditional stepside, sometimes referred to as “sportside,” style but also with the flat-walled fleetside bed style. The stepside models featured a large step fore of the rear wheel well arch, making it easy to step up and access cargo in the box of the truck.
When did they stop making step side trucks?
Back then, the stepside truck bed was considered to be the “standard” style of bed. As the years have gone by, however, many manufacturers have started to phase it out. Up until the early 2000s, all manufacturers still sold the stepside truck. Ford continued to make its flareside truck until around 2009.
What are truck bed side steps made of?
Whether you need to tie down cargo or make adjustments to the items in your truck bed, consider getting a pair of long side steps that give you access to your bed as well. Our side steps and step rails are typically made of steel, aluminum, or stainless steel, and they are designed to support hundreds of pounds during use.
Are stepside trucks becoming a thing of the past?
While the stepside bed does have some major advantages over other bed styles, some manufacturers have decided to stop making the stepside. So, is the stepside truck becoming a thing of the past? Can you still buy a stepside truck today? Here are the answers to those questions and more.
What is step side in Chevy?
What is truck bed style?
What is the name of the truck bed that Chevy uses?
What is Ford style side?
What I s a S tepside T ruck B ed?
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What is the purpose of side step?
The act of walking sideways occurs nearly every day. It uses a different set of muscles from the primary muscles used in walking straight ahead. Side stepping exercises can strengthen these underused muscles while also improving balance, improving flexibility and increasing spatial awareness.
What's the difference between a running board and a side step?
Similar to side steps, running boards perform the same function of adding an extra stepping surface to the vehicle. Running boards tend to be much wider as compared to side steps, and they offer a more comfortable stepping area.
What is the side step on a car called?
A running board or footboard is a narrow step fitted under the side doors of a tram (cable car, trolley, or streetcar in North America), car, or truck. It aids entry, especially into high vehicles, and is typical of vintage trams and cars, which had much higher ground clearances than today's vehicles.
What are the steps on the side of a pickup truck called?
Side bars are referred to by many names, including nerf bars, step bars and side steps, to name a few. A side bar's primary function is to provide a stepping surface into the vehicle. For this reason, they are generally used on larger vehicles, such as pickup trucks and SUVs.
Do side steps offer protection?
Side steps will not offer you anything close to the support or protection of rock sliders, and may even actively cause damage if used in the wrong way.
What is a Nerf Side Step?
A nerf bar is a tubular accessory with step pads for each door. A running board is a step platform that runs the length of the cab or wheel to wheel. Side steps are single steps installed at each vehicle door for greater accessibility.
Is side step necessary?
Not only do side step bars make it easier to get in and out of taller vehicles, but they provide a greater measure of convenience and boarding safety for the elderly and children.
What year did they stop putting running boards on cars?
Running boards were "outlawed" in 1964, but this mostly affected new cars in the late 60's plus a "few" older cars as they passed through major shoppings. The critical date was the 10-year grace period for removal for cars in interchange service--1974.
Do running boards affect gas mileage?
Improve Fuel Efficiency Fixed boards are an aerodynamic disadvantage. You can improve your gas mileage by streamlining your truck with electric, retractable running boards.
Are Stepside trucks rare?
In fact from 1980 to 1983, only 1,200 stepside models were made in total. Either way, there was nothing conventional about these trucks and they sold in less than popular numbers though prices have gone up, with one Hemmings listing at $62,000.
How do you do side steps on a truck?
0:364:30Installing Truck Side Steps on a Ford F-150 - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWe're gonna start this process by going under the truck and locating all the step bar studs. We'reMoreWe're gonna start this process by going under the truck and locating all the step bar studs. We're gonna be inserting these plastic washers on the studs.
What years did Chevy make Stepside trucks?
1960-1966 Chevy C/K Series Series 10, 20, 30, and 40 (C or K) were badged as “Apache”, etc. Series 50 and 60 series trucks were badged as “Viking.” The largest 70, 80, and 90 series models were badged as "Spartan", etc. Chevrolet trucks were available with smooth Fleetside” or fendered “Stepside” beds.
What is the difference between rock sliders and running boards?
0:332:51Differences Between Nerf Bars, Running Boards, and Rock SlidersYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipRunning boards are similar to nerf bars. But instead of being a bar it's a board Rock sliders areMoreRunning boards are similar to nerf bars. But instead of being a bar it's a board Rock sliders are for serious off-roaders.
What is the difference between nerf bars and running boards?
Running boards provide a flatter and wider surface to place your feet. They are often mounted flush along the length of the vehicle. They may come with non-slip step pads or tread patterns that provide extra grip when entering and exiting the vehicle. Nerf bars feature a round and narrow surface for stepping.
Do running boards protect from door dings?
running boards will only protect you from a small percentage of cars out there. if you're buying them for protection only, you're wasting your money. but if you need them for style or access, the bonus is you might get lucky once or twice and prevent a door ding.
Do running boards affect gas mileage?
Improve Fuel Efficiency Fixed boards are an aerodynamic disadvantage. You can improve your gas mileage by streamlining your truck with electric, retractable running boards.
Styleside vs. Fleetside - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums
Appearance & Dress-Up - Styleside vs. Fleetside - I have such a basic question I'm afraid to ask but I'm trying to get a bumper and the question is: What's the difference between Styleside and Fleetside?
What Ever Happened To 'Flareside' Truck Beds?
Flareside (on a Ford, or “stepside” if you’re talking Chevy) refers to those skinny beds with outward bulges around the rear wheels. Instead of having the sheet metal go straight back from ...
What is a step side pickup truck?
Stepside: The Stepside truck bed option was offered for generations on various Chevy models. The term stepside is also used to describe other models by GMC, Dodge and other pick up truck manufacturers. With this pickup bed configuration, the wheel well arches are outside of the bed, leaving a perfectly rectangular space inside the box for cargo.
What years were Chevy trucks step side?
First Series (1947 to 1953): These Chevy trucks had stepside body styles and were GM’s first new post-war vehicles. Second Series (1954 to 1959): These pickups also featured stepside beds, but the height of the bed sides increased and the loading height was slightly lower than the previous models.
What is styleside pickup?
Styleside: Similar in design to fleetside, styleside is the name Ford applies to the regular ‘flat-sided’ bed on their pickup trucks. The primary difference between fleetside and styleside pickups is simply the manufacturer. While many people refer to standard Ford pickup boxes as fleetside, at Raybuck, we use the official terminology to help you identify the right replacement panels for your Ford truck.
What is the GMC bed name?
First Generation (1960 to 1966): While Chevrolet went by the now-standard fleetside and stepside monikers, the equivalent GMC bed names were “wideside” and “fenderside.”
What body styles are used in pickup trucks?
We’ve put together this handy guide to help you decipher the different names truck manufacturers use to describe body styles, including fleetside, stepside, flareside, and styleside and more.
When did the F-Series styleside bed become popular?
Consumers rejected this, and by 1964, the bed was once again separate from the cab. Fifth Generation (1967 to 1972): As the F-Series took on a more square-style cab design, the styleside bed gained in popularity as it continued the lines of the doors to the rear of the bed.
What are the parts of a truck bed?
Some of the truck bed body panels and parts that are impacted by your truck’s bed style include the bedside panels, quarter panels, wheel arches, wheelhouses, wheel tubs, bed floor panels and cross sills.
What are side steps?
Side steps, or " step bars " offer a stylish way to make climbing into your cabin easier. Instead of a flat plank on top, step bars feature tubular metal construction that's round or oval in shape. If you feel that traditional running boards add too much visual mass to your vehicle, step bars provide a more discreet look that blends in - almost unnoticeably depending on the selection made. Or, they can make a bold statement when finished in chrome or polished stainless steel. While they do not provide as wide a stepping area, there are variations and larger diameters of step bars that should fit most needs.
What is a hoop step?
Hoop steps provide full stepping convenience without the extra weight running boards add to your vehicle. Since they only cover a limited amount of space, they won't have the visual effect of changing your vehicle's overall lines. Yet quality materials and designs allow them to look like original equipment, not like afterthoughts that have been tacked on. For those who prefer a hoop step that retracts out of the way, the Go Rhino Single Spring Step features a round tube bar step pad area. When you want to use it, unlock the hinge latches, pivot the hoop step assembly downward, then lock it in place.
What is a go rhino spring step?
The Go Rhino Spring Step is designed to unlatch and pivot out of the way when not in use. It's available in polished stainless steel or traditional steel with chrome or black powder coat finishes.
Why are truck lines so bold?
Because the overall shapes of truck designs are unpretentious, lines tend to accentuate strength. And bright work (or black work) applied in the right fashion can heighten bold styling, accentuate luxury, or both.
Can you sell under cab and under bed separately?
In the Product Options field when pickup models are entered in the vehicle specifics field, under-cab sections and under-bed sections may be sold together or separately. Because sometimes, a step for just the cab area is all you need or want.
What is a step deck truck?
A step deck truck is a type of truck which uses a two-tiered approach to hauling cargo. This includes an upper deck, and a lower deck. Some step deck trucks have a double drop trailer, which has a front upper deck and a back upper deck, with the lower deck in the middle. A step deck truck is also referred to as a drop-deck flatbed truck.
Why was the step deck truck invented?
While the pure simplicity of flatbeds is a sight to behold, the step deck truck was invented to add versatility to the conventional flat trailer.
What is a drop deck?
A drop deck, or a step deck, whichever name you want to use, looks like a flatbed trailer that includes a “step” up at the cab end of the trailer. Step decks and drop decks trailers are both wide open and living free.
What is the difference between a flatbed and a step deck?
In the assessment of step deck vs flatbed, there is one glaring difference: the step down to a lower deck on the step deck truck.
How high can a step deck trailer load?
On a standard step deck trailer, you can load up to a max of 10’ high calculating from the lower deck. This is up over the 8’6” maximum height on a standard flatbed. Using a double-drop trailer, or what some call a lowboy, you can increase that max height up to 11’6”. On a double drop with a detachable deck, you can squeeze out another six inches ...
How to balance cargo on a step deck?
In this case, place your freight up closer to the front of the trailer. It’s crucially important to remember this for extending the life of your tire treads.
How tall is the top deck of a truck?
The top deck is closest to the cab of the truck and is 60 inches in height and 11 feet in length. The lower deck drops down all the way to the wheels, allowing for the more vertical room. The bottom deck is 36 inches up to 42 inches off the road. It can also be between 37’ and 41’ in length.
When did step side trucks become popular?
Stepside or flareside trucks were very popular back in the ’50s and ’60s. Back then, the stepside truck bed was considered to be the “standard” style of bed. As the years have gone by, however, many manufacturers have started to phase it out.
Why do trucks have step side beds?
The stepside allows you to easily access the bed of your truck. Some people even feel that having a stepside truck helps to improve the overall handling of the truck.
What is the difference between a styleside bed and a fleetside bed?
The main difference between fleetside and styleside beds is just the name itself . Most manufacturers like Dodge, GM, and Toyota use the term fleetside when referencing their standard bed style. However, Ford uses the term styleside when describing the same style of bed.
Why is Ford no longer making step side trucks?
The main reason why manufacturers no longer make the stepside is that the overall style of trucks has evolved.
What are the different types of truck bed styles?
When referring to a truck bed, there are four main styles: fleetside, styleside, flareside, and stepside. Whether you have a fleetside or a styleside bed depends on what manufacturer made your truck. Both of these beds are pretty much the same style. Most manufacturers use these beds as their standard style of bed.
Will GMC bring back the step side Sierra?
Seeing this truck made many fans hopeful that GMC had decided to bring back the stepside truck. However, GM Authority reported that it would be “highly unlikely.”. Now, it’s been two years since the stepside Sierra was spotted, and we have yet to see it being released to the market.
Do you have to have a truck bed?
You no longer have to have a bulky-looking truck bed for it to be practical and functional. Instead, truck manufacturers have incorporated the step on the rear bumper. With this new style, owners still have an easy way to access the bed of their truck while having a flat bed that help to give the truck a more sophisticated style.
How to choose a running board for a truck?
You must choose accessories that are meant for your truck's model year in order for them to install and look good . When select properly, your truck steps will install fast and give you an appropriate stepping point to help you climb in and out. It's also important to consider whether you have a lift kit installed on your ride or not and how far down the running boards drop. Standard running boards don't drop much lower than the height of your truck's interior itself, which is why running boards are more popular on stock vehicles. Invest in a set of truck side steps to:
Why do trucks have running boards?
Not only does a truck boast a rugged exterior, but it also sports a powerful engine. It’s also capable of conquering various off-road trails.
Is it hard to enjoy a truck?
However, it’s difficult to enjoy everything your truck has to offer if you and your passengers are having trouble getting in and out of it . After all, trucks are taller than your typical sedans and accessing them will require a little more effort—especially when you’re out on the rough terrains.
What are side steps in a truck?
Side steps are a great approach for people who just want a simple step into and out of their truck. If you get side steps, you’ll need to be sure that both you and your passenger feel comfortable spotting these smaller steps so you avoid a misstep and potential fall when exiting the truck.
What is a wheel to wheel running board?
Wheel-to-wheel running boards and nerf bars are ones that extend beyond the truck’s cab, from the front to back wheel. The big advantage of these steps is that they allow a stepping surface at the truck’s bed, which can be especially helpful if you’re not particularly tall, if your truck is lifted or if you need to easily access items within your toolbox.
What is step side in Chevy?
The wheelwell arches are located outside of the bed. This makes for a rectangular box to hold cargo. Usually there's a step integrated into the fender flare where it meets the cab.
What is truck bed style?
First let's talk about the standard truck bed style. These are slabbed sided, and the wheelwell arches are contained within the bed. It's a cheaper way of doing things for the manufacturer, and it provides for the most carrying space inside the truck bed. Some say it's sleek and modern, while others feel it lacks style.
What is the name of the truck bed that Chevy uses?
However, fleetside seems to be the most popular term used across the brands for this style of truck bed.
What is Ford style side?
Ford, always having to be different than their main competitor, uses the term "styleside. " While their marketing terminology may be different, it still refers to the same style truck bed with the wheelwells contained within the bed.
What I s a S tepside T ruck B ed?
The other style of truck bed features visible rounded fenders outside of the actual truck bed. This does cut down on the carrying capacity of the truck bed, but it adds a lot of style to the look. As the name implies it also adds a "step" to the forward area of the fender where the bed meets the cab.
