Welcome to the iBoard running board installation guide! This guide will walk you through the process of installing iBoard running boards on your vehicle․ Designed for durability and style, iBoard running boards offer a practical solution for easy vehicle access while enhancing your truck’s appearance․ With clear steps and minimal tools required, this installation is achievable for most vehicle owners․ Follow along to transform your truck with a sleek, functional upgrade in no time!
Tools and Materials Needed
- Socket wrench or ratchet and socket set
- Allen wrench for bolt adjustments
- Drill (for optional modifications)
- Metric and SAE wrenches
- M6x1-20 bolts and nylon lock nuts
- M8x1 bolts and washers (for step bar assembly)
- Hardware package for stainless steel step bars
Ensure all materials are compatible with your vehicle’s make and model for a secure installation․
Basic Tools Required
To successfully install your iBoard running boards, you’ll need a set of basic tools that are commonly found in most home workshops or garages․ These tools will help you complete the installation efficiently and ensure a secure fit for your new running boards․ Below is a list of the essential tools you’ll need to get started:
- Socket Wrench or Ratchet and Socket Set: This is one of the most critical tools for the installation․ You’ll need it to remove factory bolts and secure the new mounting brackets․ A 3/8″ or 1/2″ drive ratchet with a set of metric sockets (particularly 10mm and 12mm) will be essential for most vehicles․
- Allen Wrench: An Allen wrench may be required for adjusting or tightening certain bolts on the running boards or mounting brackets․ Ensure you have a set of metric Allen wrenches on hand․
- Drill: While not always necessary, a drill may be required if you need to make additional holes for mounting brackets or if you’re modifying the installation to fit your vehicle-specific requirements․
- Metric and SAE Wrenches: A combination of metric and SAE wrenches will come in handy for various bolts and fasteners․ This ensures you’re prepared for any unexpected steps during the installation process․
Having these tools ready will streamline the installation process and prevent delays․ It’s also a good idea to organize your tools beforehand and work in a well-lit, spacious area to ensure accuracy and safety․ If you’re unsure about any step, consider consulting a professional mechanic or referring to your vehicle’s service manual for additional guidance․
Additional Materials Needed
Beyond the basic tools, there are several additional materials you’ll need to ensure a successful installation of your iBoard running boards․ These materials are crucial for securing the boards properly and ensuring a long-lasting, durable finish․ Below is a detailed list of what you’ll need:
- Hardware Kit: Most iBoard running board kits come with a hardware package, but it’s always a good idea to double-check the contents․ This typically includes M6x1-20 or M8x1-20 bolts, flat washers, and nylon lock nuts․ These fasteners are designed to provide a secure connection between the running boards and the vehicle’s frame․
- Adhesion Promoter (Optional): If your vehicle has a protective coating or wax on the mounting surfaces, an adhesion promoter can help ensure a strong bond between the running boards and the vehicle․ This is especially useful for maintaining long-term durability․
- Touch-Up Paint: While not essential, touch-up paint can be useful for covering any scratches or marks that may occur during the installation process․ Match the paint to your vehicle’s color code for a seamless finish․
- Mounting Brackets (if not included): In some cases, additional mounting brackets or spacers may be required to fit the running boards to your specific vehicle․ These can usually be purchased separately or fabricated to meet your needs․
- Anti-Rust Coating: Applying a rust-inhibiting coating to the bolts and brackets can help prevent corrosion over time, especially if you live in an area with high humidity or exposure to road salt․
- Trim Tools: If you need to remove or adjust any existing trim or molding on your vehicle, a set of trim tools can help prevent damage to the surrounding areas․
Before starting the installation, make sure all materials are organized and within reach․ If you’re unsure about any specific material or its compatibility with your vehicle, consult the manufacturer’s instructions or contact their customer support for clarification․ Having these additional materials on hand will ensure a smooth and professional-looking installation․
Vehicle Preparation
Before starting the installation of your iBoard running boards, proper vehicle preparation is essential to ensure a smooth and successful process․ This step involves inspecting your vehicle, cleaning the mounting areas, and positioning it in a way that allows easy access to the installation points․ Follow these steps to prepare your vehicle:
- Clean the Mounting Areas: Locate the factory mounting points on your vehicle, typically found along the bottom and inner side of the frame․ Use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove any dirt, rust, or debris from these areas․ This ensures a clean surface for securing the running boards․
- Inspect for Damage: Check the frame and existing hardware for any signs of damage or wear․ If you find any issues, address them before proceeding with the installation․ This step is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of your vehicle and the running boards․
- Position the Vehicle: Park your vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake․ If possible, raise the vehicle using jack stands to gain better access to the underside․ This will make it easier to locate and work with the mounting brackets․
- Remove Protective Coverings: If your vehicle has protective coverings or skid plates, you may need to remove or adjust them to access the mounting points․ Take care to avoid damaging any components during this process․
- Locate Factory Mounting Points: Refer to your vehicle’s manual or the iBoard installation instructions to identify the correct mounting locations․ These are usually marked or can be found by measuring the specified distances from the front and rear wheels․
- Mark the Mounting Locations: Once you’ve identified the mounting points, use a marker to clearly mark their positions․ This will help you align the running boards accurately during the installation․
- Prepare Tools and Hardware: Gather all the tools and hardware needed for the installation, including bolts, washers, and nuts․ Ensure they are compatible with your vehicle’s specifications and the running board design․
By following these preparation steps, you’ll be able to install your iBoard running boards efficiently and safely․ Proper preparation not only ensures a secure fit but also prevents potential damage to your vehicle or the running boards themselves․ Take your time with this step, as it lays the foundation for a successful installation․