Chevrolet Nerf Bars

FAQS—Chevrolet Nerf Bars

1. They look like the same thing to me, running boards and nerf bars. What is the difference between the two?

If there’s any noticeable difference between running boards and nerf bars, it has to be the stepping pads. Nerf bars are designed with stepping pads for each door or entry point in the vehicle, while the stepping pads of running boards run the entire length of the vehicle. Running boards are designed with a flat (typically rectangular) surface compared to the nerf bars’ tubular shape or pipe-like design. The entire running board has a non-slip surface. The nerf bars’ design has emphasis on style, while the running boards’ design focuses more on safety.

2. Do all nerf bars carry or support the same amount of weight? Or do they differ in weight capacity?

nerf bars can support up to 300 lbs. This is the usual weight capacity, which can match most drivers’ or car owners’ needs. However, if you need a bigger weight limit on the nerf bars, you can shop for one with a larger capacity. Just check the specs of these accessories.

3. Do all nerf bars come in the same standard length? What are the variations, if there’s any?

Nerf bars come in different lengths. The cab length spans the entire size of the cab, while the wheel-to-wheel nerf bars run the entire length of the vehicle between the rear and front wheels. Wheel-to-wheel types may come with an extra step for the truck bed. Nerf bars that measure around 2 feet or less are known as nerf bar steps. These small bars are installed outside each vehicle door. Nerf bars are made for a specific type of vehicle, whether you’re driving a truck or SUV or have a two-door or four-door vehicle. Choose nerf bars that are made for your vehicle’s make and model for exact fit.

4. Is there any advantage to using oval nerf bars vs. the standard bars? Or is the difference in shape and design just a matter of style?

Oval nerf bars give you more stepping room compared to standard bars that typically come in round pipes. The oval shape adds a little more surface area. Some also go for oval nerf bars because of the style. The shape, for some, has more visual appeal.

5. I’m customizing my truck and am looking for a good set of nerf bars to replace the oval ones that I have. Can you tell me something about the drop step nerf bars, sport tubes, and spring loaded types? This will help me narrow down the search from an overwhelming list.

Spring-loaded types are quite unique than others in terms of how they work. They have retracted springs that allow the nerf bar to be hidden out of view after you step into the pad. Drop step nerf bars, on the other hand, have loop-shaped steps hanging down off the pipe. The low-hanging steps are the main feature of these nerf bars, and some car owners go for this type of design. Sport tubes don’t offer much in terms of versatility. They’re mostly used as accents or decoration on the vehicle. These bars are smaller in diameter and are set close to the vehicle. They don’t hold much weight unlike other nerf bars with more solid stepping pads.

6. My Chevrolet nerf bars have a bit of rust on them and it’s starting to spread to other parts of the tube. How can I fix the rusty bars? What would you recommend as an effective rust-removing product or solution?

Naval jelly can help you remove rust on the nerf bars more easily. Using a wire brush, scrub off some loose surface rust. Apply naval jelly on the rusty area using a rag or paintbrush and then rub off the rust using a wire brush or steel wool. Adding baking soda on the applied naval jelly will help dissolve rust faster. Make sure that the naval jelly is rinsed off. After cleaning off the spots and bits, you can now spray paint the bars.

7. I heard some thumps and rattles and found out that they’re coming from the nerf bars. What can I do about this?

The noise may be coming from metal-to-metal contact. You have to loosen all connections and have to make some adjustments on the bracket/s. Applying some grease on the metal connections will help. As you make your adjustments, make sure that the connections are properly sealed. Keep the connections tight.