Running Boards/Tube Steps: Opinions Please

[ARK_SWAMP_RIDER]

After the lift, I've noticed the stock running boards seem to get in the way. I'm really thinking about doing something different. What do you guys think?
Option 1: removing running boards. I like the look, but hate that you can see so much of the frame.
Option 2: Sticking with the stock setup. They aren't bad, so I can live with it.
Option 3: Finding a set of OEM nerf bars from a sport edition. These are typically gray with black steps, not sure how that'd look on my black 4runner.
Option 4: Aftermarket set (black). I'm thinking Steelcraft. I like these, they would match the body color, but I'm worried that they wouldn't fit snug against the body.
My 4runner:

Steelcraft bars:

 

[BlairB]

Definitely just remove them!

 

[ARK_SWAMP_RIDER]

Definitely just remove them!

Kinda what I'm leaning towards, mainly due to cost! I have a question: if removed, could you then spray paint the exposed frame flat black so that it blends in? Can't think of any negatives to that, but not sure how hard it would be (shouldn't be bad at all).

 

[IOP25]

I like the sport nerf bars. The look fine on black SE 4Runners.


http://images.autotrader.com/scaler/565/421/images/2009/11/3/270/369/13753433381.270369251.IM1.MAIN.565x421_A.562x421.jpg

 

[surfmobile]

i took mine off.
looks great.
and also looks higher

 

[woodyc]

I like my tube steps on our Sport Ed. It makes it easier for the wifey to get in now that it's lifted.:driving:

 

[mahabali]

None of the above.

Get some sliders!

 

[Merle]

Unless you're going to replace them with sliders, stay stock. IMO (5'10") getting in and out of the vehicle will wear the seat a little faster when you have a lift. Plus there are times when it's just nice having a little extra 1/2 step (shorter friends, co-workers, relatives).

 

[ARK_SWAMP_RIDER]

I've considered sliders, but that's a good bit of money for something that I'll never use. My 4runner sees some dirt roads and trials during hunting season, but I don't actually "off road" in this one. I have a 87 I use for that. The 03 is simply a daily driver and hunting rig. As for getting in and out, it's not too bad without them. I step over the running boards and they get in the way. My g/f is 4'11" and I've noticed she doesn't even use them, so just taking them off is sounding better. However, like someone said, having something there to step on at times would be nice, so that leads me to the tube steps. Thanks for the input!

 

[12guns]

I say take them off and see how it looks. I think they look alot taller w/o the running boards. If I ever put anything back on mine, it will be the tube style, maybe aftermarket. I think the tube style would help the undercarriage blend in. To answer you question earlier, yes you can spray the undercarriage black to blend in, it'll make a lot of diifferenct. Just try not to get overspray on your ride!

 

[li_runner]

Just an FYI urban edition 4runners have black(er) tube step bars than standard sports do if you can find a set. I would steer away from aftermarket tubes steps they will rust, its an enevitability. You could also put a set of square sliders on, ones that don't have a kick up, and don't stick out too far.

I leave my steps on, they don't look to bad. They are not for me but for all those who need them, when you lift the shorter of those who need to get in the truck will need some help. Not everyone can hop out from the seat to to ground so easily. When mine eventually get trashed, they will be replaced with some smaller sliders with a small step.

 

[JAC]

Just remove them, get the OEM tube steps(I saw a couple listed on the Class section a couple of days ago) or aftermarket...Either way will look better than the running boards....no sliders if you are not off roading...

 

[ARK_SWAMP_RIDER]

Bump, need some more opinions. For now, I'm thinking I'm gonna pull the running boards and run it like that until I can find a set of OEM tube steps from the Urban Runner (or a great deal on some Sport Edition steps). If more prefer the look without anything, I may not spend the extra money.

 

[ARK_SWAMP_RIDER]

It looks like it'll be either tube steps or stock. I removed the boards to get an idea, and I'm not sure I like it. I love the clean line from the front to rear bumper, but I just can't stand how visible the frame and such is. IMO the running boards look much better than the frame. Also, if I didn't have the silver trim, I think it would have looked better, but with it I didn't care much for it. The before pic is in the first post, here are a few with them removed (been raining and I went to try out my tires, so it's a little dirty). What is your opinion, better on or off?

 

[chaz]

if the running boards got in your way,(dirt on ur pants leg for instance) so will the tube steps, i have sliders & my leg still rubs rubs em getting in. i say just remove em & paint the frame, truck bed coating will work & look good also, but it stll gets dirty & will need to be cleaned. just my 2c.