Side Steps Again

[BaxterJeep]

I know this is a subject that has been covered here, but not quite the information I'm looking for.

I need side steps that feel very secure when I step on them - not at all - like they are welded on.

I found these https://www.extremeterrain.com/red-rock-4x4-3in-side-step-yj-tj-j100176.html

Only $110. They mount via two frame to body bolts. The problem I have with them is that in one of the videos they have on their website for this product, a person not nearly as heavy as me steps on one as they get into the vehicle and move down about 1/2 and inch. Not good. I want a side step that is very securely attached to the vehicle and does not move at all when I put my 230lbs on it.

These at $220 https://www.extremeterrain.com/rugged-ridge-nerf-bars-tj-yj-564462.html
They mount with self-tapping screws. Doesn't seem like that's going to be rugged enough either.

These at $473 don't look to me like they would be any sturdier than the $110 ones https://www.extremeterrain.com/rugg...xtured-black-9706-tj-excluding-unlimited.html

I have side steps on my Chevy Silverado and they don't move a bit when I step on them.

Any suggestions?

Greg - 2002 X 4.0 MT

 

[lBasket]

Step stool on a string

 

[Jamison C]

If you plan on keeping the Jeep relatively stock and not play in the rocks at all, the OEM side steps are more than adequate, unless you want something that LOOKS aftermarket. I always felt like they were firm, the Jeep would lean to the side I was getting in on when I put weight on the step.

https://wranglertjforum.com/threads/installed-some-side-steps-on-my-lj.63193/

 

[DaveC]

I had these on my TJ for quite a while. They're stout. I'm 225 lbs and could easily stand with full body weight, bounce up and down, etc. with no give at all. They're not the ideal design if you're playing in the rocks, but doesn't sound like that's how you'll use your jeep (although mine took a pretty good beating and held up great).

https://www.extremeterrain.com/body-armor-rockcrawler-side-tj-tj4121.html

 

[primetime4]

You might be able to find factory steps for cheap. I believe your model year uses a bracket that hooks into the frame and is secured with two bolts and is pretty stout. Take a look to confirm. What I don’t like about either step you posted is that frame area is particularly prone to rust and corrosion. I would hate drilling any holes to mount anything. But if you must I would install some beefy nutserts and bolt them in. I definitely would not use self tapping screws.

 

[JABCAT]

We put these Body Armor side rails/steps on my son's Wrangler. Purchased from Quadratec.

 

[KennethS]

These at $220 https://www.extremeterrain.com/rugged-ridge-nerf-bars-tj-yj-564462.html
They mount with self-tapping screws. Doesn't seem like that's going to be rugged enough either.

I bought my Jeep in 2002 with a set of nerf bars similar to those already installed. They have a welded on flange at each end and are attached with fairly large self-tapping bolts. They have acted as rocker skids while rock crawling and may have deflected a bit, but they are very sturdy.

 

[SSTJ]

If you plan on keeping the Jeep relatively stock and not play in the rocks at all, the OEM side steps are more than adequate, unless you want something that LOOKS aftermarket. I always felt like they were firm, the Jeep would lean to the side I was getting in on when I put weight on the step.

https://wranglertjforum.com/threads/installed-some-side-steps-on-my-lj.63193/

Installing a set of those was my first 'mod'.

 

[DuckNut]

I have side steps on my Chevy Silverado and they don't move a bit when I step on them.

Your Chevy is made with real steel.

Find heavy gauge steps that mount to the frame. Keep in mind the distance between supports.

 

[BaxterJeep]

If you plan on keeping the Jeep relatively stock and not play in the rocks at all, the OEM side steps are more than adequate, unless you want something that LOOKS aftermarket. I always felt like they were firm, the Jeep would lean to the side I was getting in on when I put weight on the step.

https://wranglertjforum.com/threads/installed-some-side-steps-on-my-lj.63193/

That might do the trick. No heavy off-roading for me. Could anyone else confirm how sturdy these are?

Is it best to buy these new or used? Links for new?

Thanks,
Greg

 

[BaxterJeep]

Your Chevy is made with real steel.

Find heavy gauge steps that mount to the frame. Keep in mind the distance between supports.

Link please?

Thanks,
Greg

 

[BaxterJeep]

I had these on my TJ for quite a while. They're stout. I'm 225 lbs and could easily stand with full body weight, bounce up and down, etc. with no give at all. They're not the ideal design if you're playing in the rocks, but doesn't sound like that's how you'll use your jeep (although mine took a pretty good beating and held up great).

https://www.extremeterrain.com/body-armor-rockcrawler-side-tj-tj4121.html

I like the look of that, just not much of a step.

Greg

 

[BaxterJeep]

Here's a set that I found

https://www.facebook.com/marketplac...wse_serp:9fe1818c-a9d1-4f16-aad1-e82969634643

Looks like I'll need bolts, but is there any other hardware missing? Do you suppose my Jeep has holes already there for these steps?

Greg

 

[BaxterJeep]

Another set

https://www.facebook.com/marketplac...wse_serp:78c7da18-d92a-43a3-abcf-7a4d48d700c4


Greg

 

[BaxterJeep]

https://www.facebook.com/marketplac...wse_serp:0acf652b-9e3f-4bd8-9be1-11499692fb83


Greg

 

[DuckNut]

Link please?

Thanks,
Greg

I don't have steps so no link.

But the OEM ones have a good reputation. Any of those you posted should be fine. Just deal with the rust before installing.

 

[TheBoogieman]

Is there a reason you need side steps on a stock Jeep? My 75 year old neighbor installed a set like the first ones you posted on his stock Jeep when he bought it. He never used them.

 

[John Cooper]

If you want them and don't mind a drive, I will give you mine(once I remove them) free!

 

[Rut Row]

Step stool on a string

I have one, with string, in my Jeep for vertically challenged passengers.

 

[SSTJ]

Here's a set that I found

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/1184818599615071/?ref=search&referral_code=null&referral_story_type=post&tracking=browse_serp:9fe1818c-a9d1-4f16-aad1-e82969634643

Looks like I'll need bolts, but is there any other hardware missing? Do you suppose my Jeep has holes already there for these steps?

Greg

Here and here is what I learned way back when I installed those. This also looks relevant.