I would like to pick up some OE running boards as Im sure they are probably better built( hold up to salt better), and have a better stance for getting into the vehicle. Does anyone have any better or cheaper suggestions?

 

I bought a pair of used King Ranch running boards for $100. I then paid $135 to get them Line-X'd. They work great so far and I really like them.

 

If you want cheap check ebay, that's where I have gotten all my past bars, brush guards, etc cheaper there. Alot of aftermarket non name brand stuff or well known brands for a little more. Just read the material its made from and check their feedback.

 

I copied you. I took my chrome oval bars that I took off the day I bought the truck (don't like chrome) and hand them line-x'd for $150.

 

Try craigslist. I picked up a set of the factory polished aluminum running boards that came off a 2010 FX4 the minute the guy brought his truck home. I paid $125 for them and had to spend an extra $5 for some hardware that was missing. Unless you are flush with cash, it is too expensive to buy brand new from the dealer. I tried a set of aftermarket nerf steps and the brackets that mount to the rocker panels were junk. They didn't fit and could never fit correctly. I recommend sticking with factory stuff if you can find some new take-offs for a reasonable price.

 

back up. I found the ford accesories running boards for $300.00 Does anyone know if these look the same and are the same quality as the OE running boards?

 

I was thinking about doing this same thing, any pics? I'd be curious to see what they came out looking like.

 

I bought a set of Aries Stainless Oval Tubes and am very happy with them. I've had them on for a few weeks now and look good. In addition they don't interfere like other tubes with the Husky front mud guards I installed. I will say that the mud guards keep a lot of the snow off my tubes now!!!

 

I ordered a 2011 FX4 SuperCab and went through this same debate. I thought I would be able to find some aftermarket steps that I would like. I didn't want chrome and couldn't find any decent stainless steel steps. Didn't want tubular steps, was looking for oval. Pretty disappointed with the aftermarket offerings. So I added the factory painted angular boards to the order. After further review I don't think they will be bad as I first thought. They are painted aluminum so they shouldn't rust (past steps were painted steel) and they are hollow on the bottom with an aluminum plate. Living in MN, the salt in the winter will kill a steel set quickly, so I'm gunna give alumiunum a try. I not concerned about the material, I'm worried about the paint, so I'll also install some good molded flaps. Factory warranty is 3/36000, so I'll inspect them before the warranty expires.

Good luck!

 

Here are a few pictures I sent to another member that asked for them. I couldn't be happier with how they turned out. I live in Washington State so the truck is dirty from all the rain.

 

I might have to do this linex. My chrome ones have been sitting in the garage almost since buying my truck. They are practically brand new. They look better black and I have a blue flame too. I have thought about selling the chrome ones just because I dont like it on my blue flame fx4. Where do you get them linexd at.

 

Any line-x shop should be able to do it. It cost me $150. They also sand blasted them to ensure good adhesion.

 

I like the chrome bars with the chrome package myself