Help - Modifications - Running Boards - Bad Knee

[jdstrubel]

Hello fellow FRF folks - I've recently started to have knee problems and find it's not quite as easy to get on the running board and into the truck . Does anyone have and tips or modifications to help with this dilemma?


Thanks
Debbie

[valleyduo]

Do you have space to install some grab bars?

[Mtelkman]

In addition to grab bars, they make running boards that drop down with electric actuators, then lift back up when the door closes. They might be lower to the ground in the extended position than traditional running boards.

[mowingman]

My friend and his wife have had the same problem. On their last two trucks, they took each to a welding shop, and had the factory running boards lowered and moved outward a little. Then they had just the step height they needed.

[jdstrubel]

Originally Posted by valleyduo

Do you have space to install some grab bars?

Are you talking about something on the outside of the truck or the inside?

We have a GMC SIERRA 2500 and it DOES have a great grab bar across the dash that I LOVE and use all the time but it's getting that bad knee up the 12 or 14 inches to the running board.... I'll have to measure the height. I didn't want the DH to have to put down and pick up a stool for me... I can navigate shorter steps just fine... but when the steps gett higher then 6 inches it becomes more difficult.

[Delco Bobby]

Originally Posted by jdstrubel

Are you talking about something on the outside of the truck or the inside?

We have a GMC SIERRA 2500 and it DOES have a great grab bar across the dash that I LOVE and use all the time but it's getting that bad knee up the 12 or 14 inches to the running board.... I'll have to measure the height. I didn't want the DH to have to put down and pick up a stool for me... I can navigate shorter steps just fine... but when the steps gett higher then 6 inches it becomes more difficult.

Post a picture of what you have now.

You may be able to install an additional step below it.

[GreenImp]

Hey jdstrubel, I have the same truck as you and have the automatic extending steps as mentioned above. Mine are Amp-Research Powerstep's. The steps do come lower and further out than any other steps that I know of (we got them for my wife when she was pregnant). When extended they are about 11 1/4 inches off the ground and they stick out a little over 5" from the rocker. Note that my tires are a couple sizes bigger than stock and I raised the front end of my truck a couple of inches to level it off so the running board height is slightly higher than it would be on a truck with stock tires and ride height. This is certainly not the only option for you, but it's a good one.




Quality AMP Research Powerstep & Truck Running Boards | AMP Research

[shadows4]

Saw an older couple a few years ago. She would use a small plastic foot stool with a piece of rope tied to it. After she stepped into the truck she would pickup the step stool with the rope and drop it behind the seat. When she would get out she just reversed everything. Good luck, John

[jdstrubel]

OH Dear... that is so funny because I thought about doing the VERY SAME THING... thanks for sharing that you had seen this couple do the EXACT thing I was thinking of....

[jdstrubel]

Originally Posted by Delco Bobby

Post a picture of what you have now.

You may be able to install an additional step below it.

Okay here are the PICS showing the running board and distance from the ground... Thanks "DELCO BOBBY" for suggesting I include these - Pictures ARE worth a 1000 words...

[elchilero53]

Yep! Old age ain't for sissies, that's for sure! My DW can't get into my truck without a running board and some handles. If she needs a step, I will make sure she has one.

[sbpierce]

Mine on my F350 were 19" from the ground. I went the welding shop route and had the brackets extended 4". All the difference in the world, and no real appearance problem.

Sent from my SM-T813 using Forest River Forums mobile app

[Delco Bobby]

Originally Posted by jdstrubel

Attachment 177975

Attachment 177976
Okay here are the PICS showing the running board and distance from the ground... Thanks "DELCO BOBBY" for suggesting I include these - Pictures ARE worth a 1000 words...

That is a huge step up.

You have received a few good suggestions here.

In my are there is a store that sells and installs truck accessories and equipment. You may have one in your town. Go there to see what you like.

You might be able to use a truck bed step installed under your running board.

[jdstrubel]

I started making a list of local shops over the weekend - will try to start making some calls. Right now getting ready to head out for the holiday weekend... Woo Hoo... 6 days of Mental Health days and R & R .... Oh and hopefully some Md Crabs in there as well.... Thanks SO MUCH for your comments and Suggestions!

I'm feelin' the love from the RFR GANG!
Debbie

[Delco Bobby]

Originally Posted by jdstrubel

I started making a list of local shops over the weekend - will try to start making some calls. Right now getting ready to head out for the holiday weekend... Woo Hoo... 6 days of Mental Health days and R & R .... Oh and hopefully some Md Crabs in there as well.... Thanks SO MUCH for your comments and Suggestions!

I'm feelin' the love from the RFR GANG!
Debbie

I saw a couple of RV service shops at the Timonium show that probably could help you.

There is also a place that I think is near the entrance to a Gettysburg RV Park that people give good reviews.

I have to apologize because I don’t remember the names and a search of my files didn’t help.

[jdstrubel]

Originally Posted by Delco Bobby

I saw a couple of RV service shops at the Timonium show that probably could help you.

There is also a place that I think is near the entrance to a Gettysburg RV Park that people give good reviews.

I have to apologize because I don’t remember the names and a search of my files didn’t help.

Thanks for sharing the information you did... I will try to do some searches and see what comes up. We are actually going to Deer Run Camping Resort in Gettysburg PA - in about 2 weeks - wouldn't that be funny if it was near THAT particular Campground...

You sound like me... I save lots of information in files on my computer but sometimes finding it after I've saved it IS a REAL task... I know I saved it just not sure in WHAT folder...

DebbIE

[jeepin1]

You should definitely look into these. We have them and they are great.


Quality AMP Research Powerstep & Truck Running Boards

[Delco Bobby]

I am thinking it is one of these ...

JR RV repair

SS RV repair

[ACE110]

Another quick option that might help is a “Stander Handybar” 3 in 1 vechicle support handle. It fits into your stationery door lock bracket. It’s about $25, or less. My DW uses it even on our car. You do have to insert it each time, but quick & easy. You can get from Amazon & many other places (Home Depot shows on there website but haven’t seen in the stores). The electric/retracting steps are a better more permanent solution.

[jdstrubel]

Originally Posted by ACE110

Another quick option that might help is a “Stander Handybar” 3 in 1 vechicle support handle. It fits into your stationery door lock bracket. It’s about $25, or less. My DW uses it even on our car. You do have to insert it each time, but quick & easy. You can get from Amazon & many other places (Home Depot shows on there website but haven’t seen in the stores). The electric/retracting steps are a better more permanent solution.

I have NEVER seen one of those in my life... How HANDY is that! Thanks SO MUCH for sharing this neat little gadget.... Debbie