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Removing running boards from my 97 GMC Jimmy

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Old May 24, 2019 | 12:22 PM
  #1  
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Default Removing running boards from my 97 GMC Jimmy

I removed my worn out running boards and wanted to share the process.

This is a before picture.

Start by turning the wheel so you can get the front piece off with a 5/32 hex bit.



The front and back pieces are also connected by two 1/4 bolts underneath.



Next there are 6 bolts on each side that were tricky to get off. I hit them with some penetrating oil and use a 19 mm wrench and 3/4 socket to break them free.



They were very hard to turn so I used a floor jack to assist in pushing the wrench on the very hard ones.

I still have some brackets that I need to remove or replace with new running boards. I'd like to ask for opinions on leaving these off. Maybe get some splash guards so I'm not kicking up a lot of crud under my car?




Tell me what you think and I hope this helps anyone thinking about removing their running boards.
 
Old May 24, 2019 | 12:28 PM
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Good info. I'll be keeping my running boards for now though.
 
Old May 24, 2019 | 01:25 PM
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I would get some mud flaps, or reinstall some newer running boards. I, as many other blazer owners, dont like the massive frame that sticks out. So anything to cover them would be good, as well as protect the bottom from rocks and road debris
 
Old May 25, 2019 | 10:20 PM
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Going with nerf bars..
 
Old May 26, 2019 | 08:12 PM
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I prefer real rock sliders over the easily bent running boards and nerf bars. I do spend a fair amount of time off road, though.
 
Old May 26, 2019 | 08:51 PM
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Originally Posted by AJBert
I prefer real rock sliders over the easily bent running boards and nerf bars. I do spend a fair amount of time off road, though.
Same here. I might try to convince my buddy with a welder to fab me up some sliders. Or, at least weld some on for me
 
Old May 27, 2019 | 08:01 PM
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Originally Posted by cleburne red
Same here. I might try to convince my buddy with a welder to fab me up some sliders. Or, at least weld some on for me
I wouldn't weld them on but bolt them on. Our frames are not the thickest that have been made and when I was putting mine on it was highly recommend to bolt them on versus welding them on. I used grade 8 bolts and nuts, measured numerous times before drilling, then used red Loctite to ensure the nuts wouldn't back off. I haven't had any problems with them loosening up in of 10+ years and my frame hasn't had any problems, either.

As far as I know, there are no aftermarket sliders available for our vehicles. Mine are custom made for a 2 door Blazer/Jimmy with a 2" body lift and angled up to fit up closer to the rocker panel/body rather than sticking straight out from the body.
 
Old Nov 25, 2019 | 08:27 PM
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flash bang there isn't any chance you still have those is there? I want some for my Bravada and I don't think I can convince Christine to give me hers LOL. Im a skier and a snow toy guy so I probably won't worry about rocks very much lol... Bravo slalom anyone?
 
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