Vans: Steps, nerf bars etc....

[squirelmurphy]

Now that my van has the proper stance, some of my more vertically challenged passengers are having a hard time getting in. I'm trying to figure out a solution. The motorized steps are nice, but I can't justify the price tag. I'm 6'2" after all, I didn't say I was having a problem...

This leaves tube type steps as a option. I like the Aluminess steps. Does anybody have these or something else they could recommend? I'm thinking of building something myself as one of my options. How are these mounted? Just to they pinch weld, or frame also? Pictures or experiances with any type of step would be great, thanks!

 

[scottman]

I just replaced the Carr Super Steps with these for my e350 EB SMB and love them.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009FNWOBG/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00

I have Aluminess bumpers, but these were exactly what I was looking for at a great price.

 

[bknudtsen]

Having seen your fab skills, I say you build your own to meet your needs. Since you don't really require steps to get in, then I would build a set of low profile sliders with provisions for removable steps on the passenger side. As far a mounting goes... Frame mounted will be more stout, but will require more fabwork. Pinch seam mounted is easier, but will flex and increase chances for rust on the body. Some aftermarket fabricators use a combo of frame and pinch, but I would worry about stress cracks forming in the sheetmetal due to chassis and body flex.

Example of how flexy these frames are. Look at the deflection in the bumper. http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=132862&d=1353991908

Maybe like this;

http://www.n-fab.com/view.just.image/src=/ecom/images/product/316.1137.800x600.Jeep_JK_040.jpg

http://www.n-fab.com/view.just.image/src=/ecom/images/product/316.1135.800x600.Jeep_JK_022.jpg

http://www.n-fab.com/view.just.image/src=/ecom/images/product/316.1136.800x600.Jeep_JK_049.jpg

 

[squirelmurphy]

Well, I still might end up making my own. I have a few ideas, I just don't have much time. Even though it wouldn't take that long to make something, you have to run and get materials, 2 trips to the powdercoater, etc. If I can find something I like, I may just go that way to streamline things.

 

[Gonejpn2]

N-Fab Step Bars

I am saving for these. I haven't seen them in person so all I know about them is what's posted on their website.

http://www.n-fab.com/products/sfID1/60/sfID2/86/sfID3/131/productID/426

 

[Gonejpn2]

I am saving for these. I haven't seen them in person so all I know about them is what's posted on their website.

http://www.n-fab.com/products/sfID1/60/sfID2/86/sfID3/131/productID/426

That is assuming you have an E-350

 

[Gooseberry]

Mike at Wicked fab just did htese for me and I'm liking them.

http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/85052-New-step-sliders-on-Jiminy-by-Wicked

I like them but should might put skid tape on the entry points because the diamond plate can be slippery.

 

[Gonejpn2]

I just replaced the Carr Super Steps with these for my e350 EB SMB and love them.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009FNWOBG/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00

I have Aluminess bumpers, but these were exactly what I was looking for at a great price.

Any chance you could post a few pictures of these bars installed on your van?

 

[desertspeed]

Another vote for the n-Fabs.

The price is pretty reasonable given the fab time involved, powder coating, etc.

I am picking up a set soon, as my kids have a hard time climbing up in the van.

 

[squirelmurphy]

Those n-Fab parts look nice. The Aluminess ones run about $100 more, but the step area is full length. That might be useful if you have a roof rack. Is there room to stand on the rear tube section of a nerf bar like the n-Fab?

I want to add a roof rack at some point, so that is a concern. The steps will need to come first, though. I feel bad watching my kids struggle to get in the van...

 

[cowboy4x4]

This is what I made for mine.

 

[Gooseberry]

My only concern with the hoop style is the possibility of kids and pets getting cought between the bars. Had it happen and mine had a small gap the was close to the body of the van.

 

[Stumpalump]

This is what I made for mine.

I was wondering about the bulge in front of the rear tire? Is it to protect the rear tire? I also like your mount. From what I see under my 2002, the body is strong enough and long enough to spread the load that going to the frame would not be mandatory. On my Jeep XJ Cherokee the slider is mainly attached to a body pinch seem and it has taken major hits just fine. Anyway..... Nice Job!

 

[TBS]

^^^Are these just bolted to the pinch seam, or do they tie into the frame as well?

 

[Toolman]

something I found out a little too late was that I need a step that extends to both rear side doors. Not just the front side door. When the front side door is open and front seat is slightly reclined in normal position it's a little hard to get in and out with the positioning of the single step on the Alumine$$ nerf bars. They mount to the pinch seam and offer no rocker protection what so ever. The weight of the van will crush these things and destroy the rockers on the van if landed on hard enough. Great idea, just another product from a company that doesn't use their own stuff in harsh environments oh ya, don't get me started on the rear swing away they sold me.

when there is mud or water on your feet there is no traction on the steps at all. I have slipped and fallen out of the van several times because of this, I have grip tape on top of the steps and that helps but looks awful.
The Nfab look similar to what I plan on making for myself, however they will attach to the frame. NOT THE BODY.

They are pretty but that's about it.