392 Side Step and Running Board Ideas

[Stealth7]

Greetings!

Many of us have ordered vehicles. Since it may take Some time to receive delivery, it would be nice to make some preparations for when the day arrives.

While I have seen a few examples of what members have done for sidesteps or running boards, it would be nice if we could have many different ideas specifically for the 392. Some solutions may be protective while others just provide utility.

Thank you for your thoughts and Happy Holidays to all!

 

[buzzarr]

Greetings!

Many of us have ordered vehicles. Since it may take Some time to receive delivery, it would be nice to make some preparations for when the day arrives.

While I have seen a few examples of what members have done for sidesteps or running boards, it would be nice if we could have many different ideas specifically for the 392. Some solutions may be protective while others just provide utility.

Thank you for your thoughts and Happy Holidays to all!

This is the fun part doin some research checking all over the internet asking other people's idea's but at the end of the day it's what works for you and your needs (we've all been there)

 

[Viking Jeeper]

I don't have my 392 yet but if I think I need steps after I get it I'm pretty sure I will go with Ironman 4 x 4.

 

[CBH]

This is the fun part doin some research checking all over the internet asking other people's idea's but at the end of the day it's what works for you and your needs (we've all been there)

If rock-crawling protection is not a major concern I think the MOPAR running boards are hard to beat:

PROS
- Made of molded black plastic, so no issues with wear or rust (except the hidden metal brackets)
- OEM fit makes installation easy -- 30 minutes
- Aesthetic design IMO creates “clean" integration with fenders
- Tight clearances between fenders and running boards keeps debris off running board surfaces
- Dimpled surface prevents slipping even when wet
- Continuous flat plane makes it easy to shuffle from left to right while accessing the windshield/roof
- Less expensive than most other running boards
- Routinely available at Jeep dealers -- makes for easy return if you’re not happy with them

CONS
- Not robust enough to double as rock sliders
- May be too common/boring looking for those who want their Jeeps to be more unique

 

[PlumCrazy392]

I don't have my 392 yet but if I think I need steps after I get it I'm pretty sure I will go with Ironman 4 x 4.

I am very happy with Ironman steps/sliders and you can install them yourself which is nice.

 

[Colorado392]

If rock-crawling protection is not a major concern I think the MOPAR running boards are hard to beat:

PROS
- Made of molded black plastic, so no issues with wear or rust (except the hidden metal brackets)
- OEM fit makes installation easy -- 30 minutes
- Aesthetic design IMO creates “clean" integration with fenders
- Tight clearances between fenders and running boards keeps debris off running board surfaces
- Dimpled surface prevents slipping even when wet
- Continuous flat plane makes it easy to shuffle from left to right while accessing the windshield/roof
- Less expensive than most other running boards
- Routinely available at Jeep dealers -- makes for easy return if you’re not happy with them

CONS
- Not robust enough to double as rock sliders
- May be too common/boring looking for those who want their Jeeps to be more unique

View attachment 2207

I'm strongly considering these as I have some shorter people who need access (5'4" ish). They've struggled to get in and out without anything (but it's been fun to watch!).

My one fear is that the step is not low enough for them. While this is better than nothing, I might need to go with something lower. Does anyone know the height of the step on this for a non XR? I will compare this to what they drive today (Yukon Denali).

 

[hardhat]

I am very happy with Ironman steps/sliders and you can install them yourself which is nice.

I ordered the jl armor lite sliders by lod offroad. They are aluminum (surprisingly lightweight) and look a lot like the sahara side steps. I think they look upscale, but still capable of some offroading if you install the steel skid plates that are optional. I like the steps, but wanted something lightweight to not impact performance. I will not take this jeep offroad anywhere near as much as I have my 2012 JKUR.

For me this jeep will end up being mostly onroad and most of the mods I do will be aimed at increasing performance. I will add a winch because I have found the winch useful in all kinds of situations.

But like someone else said, do some research, look at some pictures and enjoy the building process

 

[CBH]

I'm strongly considering these as I have some shorter people who need access (5'4" ish). They've struggled to get in and out without anything (but it's been fun to watch!).

My one fear is that the step is not low enough for them. While this is better than nothing, I might need to go with something lower. Does anyone know the height of the step on this for a non XR? I will compare this to what they drive today (Yukon Denali).

I took my elderly neighbors out for a joy ride the other day. Showing them how to use the rigid grab handles for ingress and egress made the maneuver much easier for them. I’m not sure you’ll find running boards much lower unless you install the retractable steps.

 

[Stealth7]

Thank you all--excellent ideas!

Btw, I have been searching on my own but many manufacturers do not yet have 392 – specific parts and they're not the most reliable sources for feedback versus actual owners of the cars.

 

[dblplay1212]

Has anyone tried the Rock Slide Engineering steps on a 392? Do they fit?

JL 4 Door Step Slider

JL 4D Step Slider 3rd Gen BD-SS-300-JL4

rockslideengineering.com

 

[392Stinger]

I am very happy with Ironman steps/sliders and you can install them yourself which is nice.

I went with AMP power steps and really like them for my needs. I installed myself and ran them to AUX switches so I can turn them off if and when off road. Not much protection if you are rock crawling which I do none anyway. Good luck with whatever you decide.

 

[EBYCREEK]

Yes they fit, I have the Gen 3 on mine.

 

[JeepOwner392]

For side steps I installed LOD Destroyers. Wanted to keep the look a little refined since it’s also my daily driver. I also plan to off-road and wanted something that would provide good protection too.

 

[79CJ5]

Has anyone tried the Rock Slide Engineering steps on a 392? Do they fit?

JL 4 Door Step Slider

JL 4D Step Slider 3rd Gen BD-SS-300-JL4

rockslideengineering.com

Rockslide engineering Generation 3 fit and work perfectly.

 

[JEEPGEEK]

I went with the Quadratec Brute Strength steps. They were super easy to install, give me a full length step for accessing the roof rack when I install it and for removing the freedom panels, plus they look pretty good imo.

https://www.quadratec.com/p/quadratec/brute-strength-side-steps-wrangler-unlimited-jl

 

[CBH]

I went with the Quadratec Brute Strength steps. They were super easy to install, give me a full length step for accessing the roof rack when I install it and for removing the freedom panels, plus they look pretty good imo.

https://www.quadratec.com/p/quadratec/brute-strength-side-steps-wrangler-unlimited-jl


View attachment 2218

Is your Jeep a Stock XR with OEM wheels and tires?

 

[JD37064]

Has anyone tried the Rock Slide Engineering steps on a 392? Do they fit?

JL 4 Door Step Slider

JL 4D Step Slider 3rd Gen BD-SS-300-JL4

rockslideengineering.com

I got the Gen III version and love them. So custom and the light kit is like $60 and ads to the wow factor and practicality at night.

 

[JEEPGEEK]

Is your Jeep a Stock XR with OEM wheels and tires?

Yes sir, still stock. Why do you ask?

 

[CBH]

Yes sir, still stock. Why do you ask?

Yes sir, still stock. Why do you ask?

Because I really like the way it looks; the size of the tires; the height of the lift; the style and color of the wheels. It really comes together well.

 

[JEEPGEEK]

Because I really like the way it looks; the size of the tires; the height of the lift; the style and color of the wheels. It really comes together well.

Thank you! To be honest I have been struggling a bit with the idea of modifications. I feel like stock XR is a perfect spot for my dual purpose vehicle, the 392 is also my DD, but I also miss the height and more aggressive look my JK had with a taller lift and 37inch MTs.

Also, I am jealous of your silver 392. Had it still been available when I ordered the XR I am certain I would have gone with that color over the gray.