Removing running boards from my 97 GMC Jimmy
 

I removed my worn out running boards and wanted to share the process.
https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/blazerf...e0cd297166.jpg
This is a before picture.

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

https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/blazerf...2ed912eba0.jpg

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

https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/blazerf...48b575a606.jpg

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.

https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/blazerf...53bc1b4d9c.jpg

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?

https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/blazerf...e667c6a3aa.jpg
https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/blazerf...18852d034f.jpg

Tell me what you think and I hope this helps anyone thinking about removing their running boards.

Good info. I'll be keeping my running boards for now though. :)

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

Going with nerf bars..

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

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.

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?