Bodykit

BUDGET
A lot of the decisions ahead of you will come down to budget, so it’s worth outlining exactly what you’re prepared to pay. In the case of body kits, you get what you pay for: while you might be tempted by the lower prices of fibreglass, make sure you’re aware of why it’s cheaper, and why the quality of the materials you choose is important.

If your budget is limited, think about going ahead in stages. Rather than going all out on something cheap, buy quality pieces bit by bit across a timeframe that’s going to suit your finances.

MATERIALS
The weight and characteristics of the kit you choose will vary according to the material it’s made from. While fibreglass is widely available it is easily damaged in low-impact bumps and can shatter if not installed properly. Polyurethane is known for its durability and easy installation, while carbon fibre body kits are considered premium but come at a hefty price. For more information on materials, take a look here.

STYLE DECISIONS
Do you want something that looks aggressive and heavy, or something that is sleek and speedy? Thinking about these overall characteristics is important before you go off and buy particular pieces.

Running Board

1. Choose Between Running Boards or Nerf Bars
What’s the difference?

Both running boards and nerf bars serve the same function—to provide non-slip stepping surfaces to help people get in and out of trucks, and deal with the elements, ranging from mud, to rain, snow, and ice.

Either will get the job done, as both are built from the same materials. The key differentiators are size and finish options.

2. Choose a Size (and Shape)
Whether you choose running boards or nerf bars, you will have a few choices to make.

First is length. Cab-length nerf bars and running boards are only as long as your cab, and will stop right around where the rear of the cab meets the truck bed. Wheel-to-wheel nerf bars and running boards start where the front wheel ends, and cut off just before the rear wheel, covering the entire length of your truck.

The second size consideration is step width (or diameter, in the case of nerfs). Running board width (and shape) is typically predetermined depending on the specific one you might choose for your particular truck make and model year.

Tubular-shaped nerf bars come in a variety of diameters, ranging typically from two- to six-inch round or oval step bars.

3. Choose a Finish
You have a variety of looks and finishes to choose from, including:

• Black powdercoated
• Polished
• Chrome
• Textured powdercoated
• Black
• Painted
• Anodized aluminum