[Aguillard]

My FJ has the factory installed Running Boards, but I see that there are other things out there call nerf bars, rock bars among other things. What's the difference between them and the other types. Are my Running boards good, or do I need to replace them?

Thanks

 

[GTKrockeTT]

if you plan on doing any type of off-roading, do yourself a favor and sell the running boards. get a set of step rock sliders.

 

[Fjamming]

Stock running board/nerf bars are just too weak. The reason people put "rock sliders" are so they can protect the body from rocks. Factory units are not strong enough and they'll just flex-sometimes into the body. Avoid Predator steps as they are too thin and the steps will actually get you hung up. Something smooth and strong is ideal. It's then your choice as to how far out you want them to stick out (further out and you can sort of use them as steps to get in and out or load items on the roof, but too far out and you will "catch" more obsticles).

 

[RicoVerde]

Lose the running boards before the trail takes them from you!

Rock rails or Sliders ride up high so as to not reduce your ground clearance and are strong enough to support the weight of your FJ. They protect the lower body parts from serious damage from rocks etc. when running a rough trail. They are also handy for jacking up your rig for tire changes or recovery efforts.

Your running boards hang down and reduce your vehicles capabilities, they are weak and when they encounter a rock will dent and bend and may even cause damage to the lower body panels by bending up into them in certain situations.

Real Slider/rock rails are often the first armor added to a new vehicle. They are fairly inexpensive and there are a number of vendors out there with good products.

 

[poker]

Running Boards on the trail:

 

[poker]

Rock Sliders (Trail Gear shown in pic):

 

[FunJunkie]

perfect visuals poker!!

 

[otsecanuc]

another dumb question...i have TRD brakes with drilled rotors, will that effect my braking abilities while going through mud, sand, dirt or water? i've never been trailing before in the FJ but when i do what are the pros and cons?

 

[FunJunkie]

Shouldnt affect it much, it will hold mud though so just spray em out good after runs.