Gabe

On my 2nd gen-should I keep the running boards on or take them off? I like the way it look now, but I've seen 'em without and think that looks cool too. Like getting an instant lift with no work...so should I or shouldn't I???

On a second note, anybody local heading to the Pismo Run next week? I am looking for a reservation (they are all out)

Jantha

I'm actually in the same boat you are. I like the way it looks both ways. I've decided to leave mine on for now because I have to tote my kids around every now and then. It's easier for them to step up with the running boards on. If it weren't for that, I'd take 'em off.

ChickenLover

I liked the way it looked both ways as well. But when I took them off, I was very glad I did. They are the first things that will get busted up offroad. So I vote to take em' off.

oly884

Take them off, it definitely makes your runner look bigger. The only thing you'll have to worry about is rocks hitting the side of the body, plus it will get dirty much quicker now that the running boards are not there to stop the dirt from hitting the side of your rig. Just get some mud flaps and custom fit them

gwhayduke

Lady Hayduke is altitudinally challenged, so mine will stay on. And like I've said before, they keep the schmutz off the sides and your paint on the sides.

r0cky

Hey Gabe ... tell Red that I said he could give you his extra reservation because I won't be able to go. And, I'm sure the wife can go, because I'm a girl and I was invited ... sooo ... have fun

M3TA4

they look awesome with out em but mine gets a lot more mud on the side, I gotta find some mud flaps I like.I vote: take em off

AxleIke

The running boards are okay, but they definetly get banged up off road. Also, i've seen them cause more body damage than that too, becasue they tend to push up into the rockers, or even the doors. BUT, they are very nice mud deflectors, and just fine in mild offroad situations. So, i'd say, depends on how offroad you want to go.

Plus, easier entry for some, and if you like the look, cool. Also, it's not like you can't put them back on if you don't like the way things are with them off. I'd say, try it, and see where it gets you.

Parsh

Take them off unless you have small children that can't climb in on thier own.

4RunnerFever

I took mine off last year and now can't imagine putting them back. The nice thing is you can always re-install them. Go for it.

Roadtripr

It takes 30min to take them off. Do it and put them back on if find you don't like the look. I certainly would take the off if you offroad.

M3TA4

Soak the bolts down good with WD or that PB Blaster stuff, I keep seeing around here but have never used it. I almost took a torch to mine getting them off.

jethro

Yeah I got pretty frusturated taking them off, it's not bad at all but there's one bolt that I think is actually part of the car. I had the wrench on it so hard, I stripped it completely down and was so pissed. So I took the wrench to the other side of that nut and got it off easily. Took me a few days to get used to them, but now I think it looks great. Although I hate spraying down my car everyday after work because even the smallest puddle will sling mud all over the side of the car. I say take them off, take some before and after shots if you feel like it to compare.

Gabe

I got a pm from red, thanks! Now just gotta get the final details together so I can make it!!!