Why I installed Running Boards on my Dodge Nitro

13104 Views 15 Replies 6 Participants Last post by rickaren, Apr 1, 2016

rickaren

Discussion Starter · Mar 10, 2008

Well first off they were not available as “Factory Installed” on the R/T in 07, but this vehicle has every other option, except the engine heater and smokers group. If they had, I guess they would have been on it.

The reason is that here in the Mid West and most parts of the US the weather makes it hard to keep the sides clean, even if it is dry! I added molded factory Mopar black (part # 82210591AB) running boards this week end. I previous had a white Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited that I had the same issue with and by adding running boards helped correct this consent clean-up.

Have not driven enough to tell you how effective they are keeping mud or melting snow off, but they have to work. Were easy to install, but have no adjustment. My Wife will like and use them but since the Nitro has no grab bar on the pillar post, she does not like that. Out of four SUVs we have had, this is the only one not to have one, and even the new Jeep Liberty does not have it! (one on the dash instead, big joke) Some Ford SUVs even have them on both back doors.

1 - 16 of 16 Posts

jerseynitro

· #2 · Mar 15, 2008

I have the same issue with the lack of the grab bar. My wife could really use this to get into the Nitro. I noticed the Commander has one but the angle of the A pillar is different than the Nitro so I don't know if that would fit. Anyone know if the new Liberty has a grab handle?

She loves the running boards on our SLT and I added the factory mud flaps to keep the sides clean. Now all I need to add is a grab handle!

Zmit

· #3 · Jan 14, 2012

We have very muddy in the winter I installed Deluxe Molded Splash Guards today and I ordered the same running boards (82210591AB).
I have several questions

.
1. They are attached to the body? Or to the frame?
2. How strong they are? They endure the weight of a serious man

?
3. They are made of plastic only?
4.I most importantly - will protect doors from dirt?

rickaren

Discussion Starter · #4 · Jan 14, 2012

Installation Guide: K6860054.PDF

Zmit said:
We have very muddy in the winter I installed Deluxe Molded Splash Guards today and I ordered the same running boards (82210591AB).
I have several questions.
1. They are attached to the body? Or to the frame?
2. How strong they are? They endure the weight of a serious man?
3. They are made of plastic only?
4.I most importantly - will protect doors from dirt?

(1) They attach to the floor pan with heavy duty metal supports that are per-determined from the factory

(2) They are plastic with heavy duty webbing on their underside and I would guess they are good for 300 lb.

(3) Yes they will but you really need to add the front and rear MOPAR plastic mud flaps.

Check these Links out too!

http://www.dodge-nitro.com/forums/f14/road-splash-6451/

http://www.mopar-accessories.com/en-US/82210591AB/partinfo.aspx?DivisionId=2&Year=2011&VehicleId=31&CategoryId=1003&GroupId=2033&SubGroupId=3149&pc=69757

THEN:

Installation Guide: K6860054.PDF

GOOD LUCK!

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Zmit

· #5 · Jan 15, 2012

Thank you, front and rear mud flaps installed

dhh3

· #6 · Jan 15, 2012

I have installed the front and rear molded splash guards, and they kept the sides clean by 50%. I then added tubular chrome side steps which bolt to holes already in the frame rails, from the factory. The product description say they can hold up to 400 pounds! Now, my sides are basically clean, except for the leading edge of the rear fender flares, the part on the back doors. I assume that the factory molded step bars would do a better job, as they fit tight to the body, with no gaps, but I like the look of the chrome as it compliments my chrome wheels.

Zmit

· #7 · Jan 15, 2012

dhh3 said:
I have installed the front and rear molded splash guards, and they kept the sides clean by 50%. I then added tubular chrome side steps which bolt to holes already in the frame rails, from the factory. The product description say they can hold up to 400 pounds! Now, my sides are basically clean, except for the leading edge of the rear fender flares, the part on the back doors. I assume that the factory molded step bars would do a better job, as they fit tight to the body, with no gaps, but I like the look of the chrome as it compliments my chrome wheels.

Roger

When installed, I will write about the result.

Zmit

· #8 · Jan 17, 2012

I ordered today from my dealer. Waiting for two weeks

prince

· #9 · Mar 4, 2012

Thanks rick for some reason, i cant open the link you posted.

rickaren

Discussion Starter · #10 · Mar 4, 2012

prince said:
Thanks rick for some reason, i cant open the link you posted.

You must have Adobe Reader installed on your computer to open this PDF file but it is free and works fine on mine? Looks to be helpful for your install.

Try this install: PDF reader, protected mode | Adobe Reader X

civpol

· #11 · Mar 5, 2012

I installed the chrome tubelar and with the holes already drilled for these in the frame made it much easier and it does help keep the sides clean but i expect to attach mud flaps and i would rather buy those that are custom made for the Nitro so are there any reccomendations from you guys. Thanks Civpol

dhh3

· #12 · Mar 5, 2012

civpol said:
I installed the chrome tubelar and with the holes already drilled for these in the frame made it much easier and it does help keep the sides clean but i expect to attach mud flaps and i would rather buy those that are custom made for the Nitro so are there any reccomendations from you guys. Thanks Civpol

Buy the molded mud flaps from Mopar, that are specially made to custom fit the Nitro. You can find them on ebay: search: dodge nitro mopar.

Zmit

· #13 · Mar 24, 2012

Today, finally put running boards on the car. Very pleased with the result. The car is much less dirty.

civpol

· #14 · Mar 29, 2012

Mopar flaps

Thank you partner for the info and i did find the flapps on ebay and intend to order soon. Thanks again Civpol

[/B]

dhh3 said:
Buy the molded mud flaps from Mopar, that are specially made to custom fit the Nitro. You can find them on ebay: search: dodge nitro mopar.

rickaren

Discussion Starter · #15 · Mar 6, 2016

Running Board Install

Published on Aug 12, 2012

Truck Gear Direct - Highlander Running Board installation.

rickaren

Discussion Starter · #16 · Apr 1, 2016

Side Steps for Dodge Nitro

Published on Apr 1, 2016

Order here: Less4Spares
Our Running Boards side steps provide a practical use at the same time as adding style to your vehicle. Add a custom look, style and value to your vehicle with this excellent products. These accessories are most likely used for cosmetic purposes on cars, vans, 4x4s and pick-ups, on larger vehicles; but they also will help you to get to the car. It will also protect the sides of your car. Side Steps will promote easier access into the vehicle for elder people and children, All of Auto Styling's side steps are easy to fit so add an extra touch of uniqueness to your vehicle.

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