ELECTRIC RUNNING BOARDS: THE FUTURE OF TRUCK AND SUV ACCESSORIES?

If you’re like most people, you probably dread getting into a cold, dirty truck or SUV in the wintertime. Well, thanks to electric running boards, that’s about to become a thing of the past! Electric running boards are the future of truck and SUV accessories, and they’re quickly becoming one of the most popular mods out there. In this article, we’ll discuss what electric running boards are, how they work, and why they’re such a great addition to any vehicle. We’ll also take a look at some of the best electric running boards on the market right now. So read on to learn more!

Running boards are almost an essential accessory for trucks and SUVs. Not only do they provide a convenient step up into the vehicle, but they also protect the paint from getting scuffed and scratched. Electric running boards take this one step further by providing a motorized step that extends and retracts automatically. In this article, we will take a look at the best electric running boards that are currently available on the market.

Electric Running Boards vs Normal Running Boards

Electric running boards differ from traditional running boards in a few key ways. First, and most obviously, electric running boards are motorized. This means that they are powered by a small electric motor, which is usually located in the underside of the running board. The motor is controlled by a switch, which can be mounted anywhere inside the cabin. In contrast, normal running boards are simply a piece of metal or plastic that is attached to the side of the vehicle.

Second, electric running boards are usually made from higher-quality materials, where traditional running boards are often made from lower-quality materials. This is because electric running boards need to be durable enough to withstand the weight of the motor and should also be durable enough t to provide a safe and reliable step.

Third, electric running boards for trucks are typically more expensive than traditional running boards. This is because their more advanced design and construction make them more costly to manufacture.

Electric Running Boards: How Do They Work?

Now that we’ve looked at the main differences between electric and traditional running boards, let’s take a closer look at how electric running boards work. As we mentioned earlier, electric running boards function with the help of a small electric motor. Usually, this motor is located in the underside of the running board.

The motor is connected to a switch, which can be mounted anywhere in the vehicle’s cabin. This switch is used to turn the motor on and off, as well as to control the speed at which the running board extends and retracts. The extension mechanism of the truck running boards electric is a complicated one that often uses gears to ensure a smooth and reliable operation. This system comprises of a track, a roller, and an electric motor. The switch sends a signal to the motor which in turn rotates the gears. This action extends the electric power running boards outward.

In most electric fold out running boards, sensors are used to automatically extend the boards when a door is opened. This is a convenient feature that eliminates the need to manually activate the switch. When the door moves, the sensors detect the change in pressure and send a signal to the motor. This causes the electric running boards to automatically extend, providing a safe and secure step for getting in and out of the vehicle.

Some electric running boards have an inbuilt LED light. This light is used to illuminate the step area and make it easier to see in low-light conditions. The LED light is usually turned on an off with the same switch that is used to control the motor.

Electric folding running boards: Manufacturers

They are many well-known companies that manufacture electric running boards. Some of the most popular brands include AMP Research, Bestop, TAC and Tyger. These companies have a reputation for manufacturing high-quality products that are built to last.

AMP Research

AMP electric running boards are a popular choice for many truck and SUV owners. They are known for their durable construction and easy installation. A user on https://www.ford-trucks.com/ says:

“I had the AMP brand power step running boards on my 05 Dodge Cummins 5.9 quad cab and loved them.”

AMP electric running boards are available in a variety of materials and various finishes, such as black powder coat and polished aluminum. The company is situated in the USA and all of their products are made in America. Their products are made utilizing the latest technologies and are rigorously tested to ensure the highest standards of quality. AMP Electric running boards are priced between $500 and $1000 and can be bought directly from the manufacturer or from authorized dealers.

Bestop

Bestop is another well-known manufacturer of electric running boards, originating in the USA. The company has been making electric running boards for over 25 years and is a trusted name in the industry. Other than Electric running boards, they specialize in other accessories like electric running boards silverado, Jeep tops, electric running boards f150, dodge ram electric running boards and winches. Bestop electric running boards are made from high-quality materials and are designed for durability. Their products are sold through a network of authorized dealers and through online retailers.

TAC

TAC is a Taiwanese company that makes accessories for manufacturers like Jeep, Dodge, and Chevy. Their products are made from high-quality materials and are built to last. TAC electric running boards have a reputation for being durable and easy to install. Some of their products are electric running boards ram 1500, electric running boards f250, electric running boards for chevy silverado and electric running boards gmc sierra. They use highest quality materials for their products and offer a wide range of finishes, such as black powder coat, chrome, and brushed aluminum. TAC electric running boards are a great choice for people who are looking for quality products at an affordable price.

Tyger Auto

Tyger is a Chinese company that has been in business for over 15 years. Their Electric running boards have been on the market for over five years and have a good reputation. Tyger electric running boards are made from high-quality materials and come in a variety of finishes to suit your needs. They are easy to install and come with all the necessary hardware. Tyger electric running boards are an affordable option for people who are looking to add electric running boards to their truck or SUV.

Electric Running Boards: Materials

Manufacturers use materials like aluminum, stainless steel, and plastic to make electric running boards. These materials each have advantages and disadvantages.

Aluminum

Aluminum is a lightweight material that is strong and durable. It is also resistant to corrosion. Electric running boards made using aluminum are usually less expensive than those made from other materials. One downside of aluminum is that it can be dented more easily than some materials, and with frequent operation, electric running boards made from this material may show signs of wear and tear more quickly. Aluminum electric running boards for trucks are a good choice for people looking for a durable product for day-to-day use.

Stainless Steel

A durable and high-strength material, stainless steel is often used in the automotive industry. Electric running boards made from this material are more expensive than aluminum electric running boards but have the benefit of being more resistant to wear and tear. Stainless steel electric running boards are a good choice for people who are looking for an electric running board that will last for a long time.

Plastic

Plastic electric running boards are often less expensive than those made from other materials. They are also lighter in weight, less costly, and easier to install. One downside of plastic electric running boards is that they may not be as durable as those made from other materials, and as a result, may show signs of wear and tear more quickly. Plastic electric running boards are a good choice for people who are looking for an electric running boards on a budget.

Types of Electric Running Boards

Electric running boards come in various types. Some of the more popular types include:

– Retractable electric running boards: These electric running boards are designed to be tucked up under the vehicle when not in use. Powered with a motor, they automatically extend when the door is opened and retract when the door is closed. Retractable electric running boards are a good choice for people who want to have a sleek, clean look when the running boards are not in use.

– Folding electric running boards: These electric running boards fold out when the door is open, and fold inwards when the door is closed. Folding electric running boards are a good choice for people who want an electric running board that is easy to use. They are typically made with materials like aluminum or stainless steel, which makes them durable.

– LED electric running boards: These electric running boards are fitted with LED lights that turn on when the door is open and turn off when the door is closed. They provide a bit of extra safety and visibility in low-light conditions. LED electric running boards are a good choice for people who often travel at night and require a bit of extra lighting.

Electric Running Boards: Drawbacks

As much as they are beneficial, electric running boards come with a set of drawbacks.

– They can be expensive: Electric running boards can be more expensive than traditional running boards. They typically cost about $500 to $1200, depending on the make and model of the vehicle.

– They require batteries: Electric running boards must be powered by batteries, and these batteries need to be replaced periodically.

– They can be damaged by water: Electric running boards are not waterproof and can be damaged by water. If you are planning to off-road with your electric running boards, it is important to take precautions to prevent them from getting damaged.

– They can be noisy: Electric running boards use a motor to extend and retract, and this motor can be quite noisy. If you are looking for a quiet electric running board, it is important to research the noise levels before making a purchase.

-They can be slow to deploy: The deployment time of electric running boards can vary, but it is typically slower than that of traditional running boards. If you are in a hurry, you may want to consider a normal running board.

It is important to consider these drawbacks before purchasing electric running boards. If you are looking for a durable, long-lasting running board, electric running boards may be the right choice for you. However, if you are on a budget or looking for a quick and easy solution, traditional running boards may be a better option.

Electric Running Boards: Installation

The installation process of electric running boards can be a bit complex for an amateur. However, if you have some experience with car repairs, you should be able to install electric running boards without too much difficulty. Follow along with the steps below to install electric running boards on your truck or SUV.

• Step 1: Remove the old running boards

If your truck or SUV has factory fitted running boards, the first step is to remove them. This can be done by unscrewing the bolts that hold the running boards in place. Once removed, clean the area where the running boards were mounted to remove any dirt or grime.

• Step 2: Install the brackets

Most electric running boards require to be mounted with brackets. These brackets can be installed by screwing them into the frame of the vehicle. It is important to make sure that the brackets are correctly lined up before tightening them in place.

• Step 3: Mount the running boards

Once the brackets are installed, the next step is to mount the electric fold out running boards to the body of the vehicle. This is typically done by lining up the running boards with the brackets and screwing them in place. Be careful not to over-tighten the screws, as this could damage the running boards.

• Step 4: Connect the wiring

The final step is to connect the included wiring to the running boards. This will provide power to the electric motor that extends and retracts the running boards. Once connected, tuck the wiring under the vehicle so that it is not visible.

Installing electric running boards can be a bit time-consuming, but it is a relatively simple task that can be done by yourself at home. By following the steps above, you should have no trouble installing electric running boards on your truck or SUV.

Best Electric Running Boards: Helpful Tips

After the installation process is complete, there are a few things you can do to ensure that your electric running boards work correctly and last for a long time. Below are some helpful tips we have listed to help you get the most out of your electric running boards.

– Check the wiring regularly: The wiring for electric running boards is typically located under the vehicle. It is important to check the wiring regularly to make sure that it is not damaged or exposed. If the wiring is damaged, it could lead to a electrical leak which can cause serious problems.

– Keep the running boards clean: Electric running boards should be cleaned on a regular basis to prevent dirt and grime from building up and getting into the mechanism which can cause damage.

– Inspect the running boards regularly: It is also important to inspect electric running boards on a regular basis for any signs of damage, and if there is any damage, to have it repaired as soon as possible.

-To clean your electric running boards, simply use a mild soap and water solution.

– Inspect the brackets: The brackets which hold electric running boards in place can come loose leading to an electric running board falling off. To prevent this, it is important to check the brackets regularly and tighten them if they are loose.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your electric running boards will work correctly for a long time.

Electric Running Boards for Trucks: FAQS

Q. Can electric running boards be installed on any truck or SUV?

A. Most electric running boards are designed to fit a specific makes and models of trucks and SUVs. However, there are some universal electric running boards which can be installed on any truck or SUV. On the other hand, some electric running boards may not fit certain trucks or SUVs.

Q. How much does it cost to install electric running boards?

A. Installation cost can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle as well as the type of electric running boards you select. However, most electric running boards can be installed at home without professional help, which can save you money on installation cost.

Q. How often do electric running boards need to be serviced?

A. Typically, electric running boards do not require much maintenance. However, it is important to check the wiring regularly and keep the running boards clean to prevent debris from building up and damaging the mechanism. Additionally, electric running boards should be inspected on a regular basis for any signs of damage.

Q. What to do if the electric power running boards get stuck?

A. If the electric running boards get stuck, the first thing you should do is check the wiring to make sure that it is not damaged. Then, check the brackets to make sure that they are tight. If the problem persists, it is best to contact a professional for help.

Electric Running Boards: Conclusion

During the length of this article, we discussed electric running boards in detail. We looked at what they are, how they work, the benefits of having them, and finally some tips for best usage. Thanks for reading!