Temporarily remove Predator steps

[tjnptel1]

I am going to hit the trails this weekend and I was advised to remove the steps but I use them daily so was wondering:

1. how hard is to remove them and then reinstall them? All I have at home is a basic cordless drill and maybe some sockets
2. Do I need to worry about the exposed holes in the event that it rains? i.e. rust?

 

[SlickTRD]

I am going to hit the trails this weekend and I was advised to remove the steps but I use them daily so was wondering:

1. how hard is to remove them and then reinstall them?
2. Do I need to worry about the exposed holes in the event that it rains? i.e. rust?

1) very easy
2) no
3) if they are easy trails you might not even need to remove but if the person advising you is knowledgeable then follow that advice

 

[tjnptel1]

1) very easy
2) no
3) if they are easy trails you might not even need to remove but if the person advising you is knowledgeable then follow that advice

Sorry, i meant to add that I don't have any fun tools like an air drill, just a cordless power drill and some sockets. Still feasible?

 

[doxidad]

Sorry, i meant to add that I don't have any fun tools like an air drill, just a cordless power drill and some sockets. Still feasible?

You don't need anything fancy. A set of metric sockets will do it. If I remember correctly there are 5 bolts on each side.

 

[tjnptel1]

You don't need anything fancy. A set of metric sockets will do it. If I remember correctly there are 5 bolts on each side.

took a peek earlier, 6 bolts per side. 2 per mounting point.

 

[Toffees]

took a peek earlier, 6 bolts per side. 2 per mounting point.

Easy to remove, just make sure you support them while removing the bolts so it doesn't strain the final bolt

if you hit the trails and these snag, it could rip off your rocker panels or maybe worse

 

[tjnptel1]

just as easy to reinstall? Does removing and reinstalling have detrimental effects long term?

 

[97BlackAckCL]

All you need is a socket, 12 mm I believe.

 

[jhguth]

the only risk i can think of would be cross-threading a captured nut, so just pay attention. a little anti-seize on the bolts wouldn't hurt if you plan on taking them off and on a lot.

 

[Toffees]

the only risk i can think of would be cross-threading a captured nut, so just pay attention. a little anti-seize on the bolts wouldn't hurt if you plan on taking them off and on a lot.

^^
To be safe, reinstall the bolts immediately and keep the steps stored safely

Regarding reinstall, personally, I would run without these, or buy a true slider with steps. But if you have little kids (or need some reach yourself) the step can be helpful. but I removed my OEM boards years ago and haven't looked back.

 

[97BlackAckCL]

just as easy to reinstall? Does removing and reinstalling have detrimental effects long term?

No, just don't overtighten and strip the threads. I removed my stock ones and installed N-Fab steps with just a socket wrench.

 

[90Duck]

I'd suggest you put the bolts back into the holes and tighten them up when you pull off the steps. Otherwise you will likely get gunk up in the empty bolt holes while on the trail and it will make the reinstall afterward a lot more difficult.

 

[tjnptel1]

my wife is 5'1. She uses the steps to get in

 

[tjnptel1]

I'd suggest you put the bolts back into the holes and tighten them up when you pull off the steps. Otherwise you will likely get gunk up in the empty bolt holes while on the trail and it will make the reinstall afterward a lot more difficult.

Was thinking of doing that so will do just that. :biggrin1:

 

[pDubs]

I removed my running boards to install RSG rock sliders. 6 bolts a side, just used a basic rachet and socket, thinking it was 12mm, maybe 13.

I coated the bolts with anti-seize and put them back in the threads after removing so that if I ever pull the rock sliders to sell, I can throw the running boards back on without having rust and grime built up in threads.

 

[rsimi72]

I'd suggest you put the bolts back into the holes and tighten them up when you pull off the steps. Otherwise you will likely get gunk up in the empty bolt holes while on the trail and it will make the reinstall afterward a lot more difficult.

Yep. This is how I’d handle it. And you won’t lose the bolts this way. I’ve had mine off a few times. Easy job with a socket set and 30 minutes (max).

 

[Decipher]

Super simple to remove and replace.

Those predators hang super low. I’d buy the Nfabs or sliders with steps. I’ve never caught my nfabs and I’ve been in some stuff.


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[tjnptel1]

Took the steps off, literally took 15 mins tops.

Is it just me or does it feel taller without the steps?

 

[nb rob]

Took the steps off, literally took 15 mins tops.

Is it just me or does it feel taller without the steps?

oh yeah it does. I've had my sliders off twice to repaint them, and it always looks so good when they're off. Enough to procrastinate reinstalling them

 

[Decipher]

Looks way better. I’d really look at the Nfabs if you want steps but don’t want sliders. I’m sure you could sell the predators for a good price and put that towards a different purchase.

The Nfabs will look even better without the extra side skirts I have on mine.




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