This TJ Rubicon has the factory under door side protection currently installed. For additional protection and more ease of entry Smittybilt side steps are going to be installed. Very simple and easy installation with common tools. (Magic Marker, center punch drill, drill bits, correct size socket and ratchet or wrench.
Here is the before picture
This is an additional picture of the factory installed side protection
The side steps are being installed are frame mounted side steps which are the most secure and stable
These are the new Smittybilt Side Steps which will be installed
We initially used jack stands to support the side steps during marking the holes to be drilled
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Make sure you maintain a 1/2” space between the step and body during the marking process so you don’t have any rubbing issues
After fitting the side steps on the frame, these are the placement marks, we used a magic marker but you can use what ever you want as long as you can see the marks
After marking the holes on the frame we then used a center punch to more easily drill the 5/16 holes required for the 3/8 self tapping screws
We also drilled 1/8” holes as starter holes for the 5/16” bit which helps greatly in the process
/16” hole is quite large and drilling the 1/8” hole made drilling these more manageable
Action Shot!
Last step is positioning the side steps and installing the 3/8” self-tapping screws
PRESS HARD for the screw to catch as the frame metal is thick and these are meant to be screwed in once!
Other side…
Last step is positioning the side steps and installing the 3/8” self-tapping screws
PRESS HARD for the screw to catch as the frame metal is thick and these are meant to be screwed in once!
Final product… Looks great!
Another view of the final Product
Strength test!
Passed!
Take your time. Use these instructions or the instructions which should come with the steps.
Installation time about 1 hour.
