Running boards with best ground clearance

[Boondox]

Howdy All,

Our van is getting the Quadvan conversion done in May! I can't wait! With the 2.5" lift I am really going to need a step up. Not only am I pretty short but my knees are shot. When looking at running boards they never seem to say how much ground clearance you lose. While I know you are always going to lose some I am wondering if anyone has a recommendation for some running boards that take away as little clearance as possible?

Thanks!

 

[Betarocker]

I run AMP steps on my F350. Don't know if them or one for another brand or model will work, but they fully retract when doors are closed.

 

[Boondox]

Thanks. While I am not going to get a powered step, I wonder how they impact your ground clearance?

 

[Betarocker]

If the AMP steps make contact with ground, you'll be doing bodywork to repair the sills. Mine retract to behind the pinchwelds.

 

[Boondox]

That does look pretty sweet! Not cheap though. Maybe after I recover from the Quadvan conversion. I have to admit I am also a little leery of having an electrical step, yet another thing to fail.

 

[IdaSHO]

I modified a cheap extruded aluminum set to sit very tight to the body.
They still work as what they were intended for, helping peeps in and out of the truck, as well as go a long way in keeping the truck clean.
But they no longer are the lowest part if the cab.... I think I raised these more than 4 inches from what they were designed.
Side benefit, is that I altered them in such a way that they seal against the pinch weld.
So mud/snow/road much doesn't kick under the body, and land on the running board, like so many do...