Is anyone running their truck without running boards. I have seen a few "barn Finds" without them and I kind of like the look. As the trucks sit comparatively low anyway, it would seem a reasonable option. How about a few pics?

 

Be aware of the stone bath the sides of the truck may get without running boards. They're part of the character of these old vehicles.

 

You make a couple good points. But customization is also a part of the process. I do understand and agree regarding the stone bath, however, for me, this truck won't see any back roads or daily driving so that potential is minimal.

 

I didn't have running boards on my first '56 (when I was 16) and we had a 1/4 gravel driveway. It was fine.

 

I drove my 49 around for a few weeks without running boards. It sort of gave the old truck a bit of the "Gasser" look. I kind of liked it. You would need to find a way to secure the bottoms of the front fenders so they wouldn't be flapping all over the place.


Here's a couple of pics from way back then and one of the current stance with running boards

 

Funny, I've been wondering the same thing since I have had my boards off for a bit now (one is back on) and I do like the look for some reason. I have to agree with all the pros and cons mentioned so far, especially having to secure the fenders. I put over 30 miles on mine yesterday with one board and even a couple miles on a gravel road and didn't really notice the stones being a problem. Most of us are running tires that won't really pick up and throw stones I suppose.
I love that truck Bobby! You inspired me to take a few shots of mine for some more boardless F1 consideration.

 

I gotta say guys, I do like the look. I don't think the fenders would be an issue as a simple brace from the frame to the existing hole in the fender would solve that issue. I might even do a set for the rear fenders too, just to be extra secure. Remove the board supports and dress up the lower body/frame area, it could be nice.

 

It makes the truck look like it is on a diet Looks okay either way. I need mine. Only way to get into bed as mine has a welded up tailgate.

 

I have been looking at a few trucks around and thinking about going w/o running boards and then trimming the lower fenders off also. Might even consider channel the body over the frame

 

Would you lose any rigidity in the fenders by omitting the running boards?

 

The lower rear of the front fender would be free to flex, which it was not meant to do. Probably the same with the lower front of the rear fender. Nothing a couple simple braces couldn't handle.

 

The fender bracing would be simple to address, I would make side skirts (like rolled pans for the sides) from the bottom of the cab to the bottom of the fenders to hide all the running gear hanging down. If you painted them a semigloss black or with bedliner they would visually disappear.

 

Good ideas. I knew the area would have to be addressed but wasn't firm on a plan. I like the roll pan concept.

 

Keep us in the loop and take lots of photos.......

 

board-less...