Running Board Hardware Kit

What Is a Running Board Hardware Kit?

Running boards and side steps are one of the most practical upgrades you can make to a truck or SUV — but getting them mounted correctly is every bit as important as choosing the right board. A running board hardware kit contains the brackets, bolts, mounting plates, linkages, wiring connectors, and other components needed to properly secure and integrate running boards with your vehicle's specific frame and body structure. Whether you're doing a fresh installation, replacing worn fasteners, or converting an existing running board system to a newer configuration, having the correct hardware kit ensures a safe, rattle-free fit that holds up under daily use and harsh weather conditions.

Why the Right Hardware Kit Matters

Running boards carry real load — passengers stepping up into lifted trucks, the repeated stress of opening and closing doors, and constant exposure to road grime, salt, and moisture. Hardware kits are engineered for each specific vehicle platform, so the mounting points align precisely with the factory frame rails and rocker panels. Using incorrect or generic fasteners can lead to misalignment, premature wear, or outright failure of the mounting system. For powered and electric running boards in particular, hardware kits often include control modules, motors, wiring harnesses, and linkage arms that are vehicle-specific — making it essential to source the right kit for your exact year, make, and model.

What to Look for When Shopping

• Vehicle Fitment: Always verify compatibility with your specific cab configuration (regular, extended, or crew cab) and model year before purchasing.
• Complete vs. Partial Kits: Some kits include all mounting hardware from scratch; others are supplemental replacement sets for worn or missing components. Know what you already have.
• Material Quality: Look for corrosion-resistant hardware — zinc-plated or stainless steel fasteners will outlast bare steel in areas with road salt exposure.
• Electronic Components: For powered running boards, check whether the kit includes control modules, override switches, or conversion harnesses that match your vehicle's electrical architecture.
• Brand Compatibility: Hardware kits are typically engineered to work with a specific brand's running board systems, so mixing components from different manufacturers is generally not recommended.

Top Brands in Running Board Hardware Kits

AMP Research is the industry leader in powered running board technology. AMP Research's hardware kits are purpose-built to support their iconic PowerStep and PowerStep XL systems. AMP Research's hardware ecosystem — including replacement motors, control modules, spur gear housing covers, wiring harnesses, and Plug-N-Play conversion kits — is engineered to exact tolerances for each supported vehicle platform. Whether you need to restore a PowerStep system to factory performance or upgrade an older installation to Plug-N-Play functionality, AMP Research has a kit designed for the job.

Big Country Truck Accessories brings a comprehensive lineup of running board mounting solutions spanning their WIDESIDER, Fusion, and Classic side bar families. Their hardware kits pair with running boards available in 3-inch through 6-inch widths across rocker-mount and frame-mount configurations — giving truck owners the flexibility to match their specific installation requirements. Big Country's hardware kits are built to the same quality standards as the running boards themselves, with finishes engineered to meet or exceed OEM durability benchmarks.