GMC Nerf Bars

FAQS—GMC Nerf Bars

1. What benefits do I get when I install nerf bars on my GMC?

Nerf bars, also known as truck steps, are similar to running boards. They provide extra stepping platforms so it’ll be easier for you to get in and out of your truck or SUV. These tools are especially useful if your vehicle has a high clearance. Once installed, vehicle entry and exit is much easier and safer. Most of these bars come with rubberized steps or grip pads to prevent slipping, keeping you and your passengers safe when it’s snowing or heavily raining outside.

2. I’m currently shopping for nerf bars for my truck. What type of truck steps should I invest in since I frequently use my vehicle for off-road trips?

Because your ride is frequently exposed to plenty of harsh elements such as extreme temperatures, road debris, grime, and rough driving conditions, it’s best to invest in stainless steel bars. Stainless steel is highly durable and won’t easily corrode. This material is also guaranteed to withstand heavy loads, making it ideal for heavy-duty applications. Also, avoid bars with a chrome coating since this material can easily get scratched or scuffed. Repairing chrome steps can also be a hassle since you’ll need specially formulated chrome-friendly products to clean and polish them. Once these chrome steps get scratched beyond repair, you’ll either have to replace them or have them re-coated with chrome.

3. Do I need special tools when installing GMC nerf bars?

This depends on whether your vehicle is pre-drilled with holes for add-on accessories such as truck steps. Take a look under your ride and see if the frame has enough holes for the nerf bar. If it does and the holes perfectly match the bolt holes on the step, then you don’t need a special tool. However, if your ride doesn’t come with pre-drilled holes, you’ll need to drill the holes yourself with a drill and drill bit.

4. I recently installed nerf bars on my vehicle. When I took my ride for a drive, the bars rattled or thumped. What should I do?

Rattling or thumping noises are sure signs of a metal-on-metal contact. Take a look at your nerf bars and see if all the connections are properly attached. Remove the bars and re-install them, and adjust the brackets to prevent metal-on-metal contact. Keep on adjusting and re-installing until the thumping or rattling noises disappear.

5. When I installed step bars on my truck, I noticed that the rubber step pads are not aligned with the truck doors. What’s the reason for this, and what should I do to remedy this issue?

The most common reasons for misaligned rubber pads are that the bar is installed on the wrong side of the vehicle or the mounting brackets are attached to the wrong hole or spot. What you need to do is to remove the nerf bars and re-install them. Make sure each bar or step is attached to the right side, and that all brackets are securely bolted onto the proper holes or spot.

6. What’s the usual torque spec for nerf bar bolts?

The proper torque specifications will ultimately depend on your vehicle make and model, although bolts that are attached to a vehicle’s body or frame are usually tightened to 65 ft/lbs. You can always check your car manual to verify torque specs. Keep in mind that not following the exact torque specs can cause the nerf bars to easily fall off because they’re too loose or quickly wear out because they’re bolted on too tight.

7. How do I remove scratch marks from my chrome-coated step bars?

Chrome is a tricky material to deal with, especially since it can easily get scratched. You need to find a metal or chrome polish that’s specifically designed to remove hazy smudges or marks. Apply a generous amount on a clean rag and wipe it across the scratched surface. Then apply a clear coat or wax to prevent future damage. However, if you’ve done everything you could to get rid of the scratch marks –you’ve cleaned, washed, polished, and waxed the bars—but they won’t go away, it means you’ve damaged the bars beyond repair. Your options are to have the steps re-chromed or replace them with brand-new ones.