Hello,

I'm getting ready to purchase a set of running boards for my 52 Ford F1 since my original ones were in such bad shape they were scrapped. I had planned on buying fiberglass boards mainly because of the money difference and because my parents had a 48 Ford F1 with FB running boards and they seemed to do just fine.

But now that I think about it, buying steel boards would mean that the holes are already predrilled and the boards are basically ready for paint. However it means they are somewhat more expensive and for me building a truck on a growing toddler budget means every penny counts.

What's your guys opinions? Steel, or fiberglass? Any input is greatly appreciated!

Thank you
Jon Preston

 

Steel is Real !!!!!!!!

 

I was in your position, limited funds, and went with glass. No regrets, I laugh at water/rain.

 

Thanks Ross! I can always count on you for sound advice on my old truck. I appreciate your honesty and help!

Jon

 

I have glass fenders and won't have to worry about rust, still using my old running boards, but when I do get new ones I will probably get glass (less expensive) and not worry about them rusting...

 

Mine came with fiberglass running boards from the PO. The only regret is a friend of mine came over and ended up setting down on the end a running board before it was attached at the fender. It made a spider web effect in the gelcoat where it bent, but it didn't show through when we had it painted But, maybe I was lucky because a steel fender may have bent! I say if you can save some money, go for the FG.

Jag

 

Thank you guys! I placed my order this evening for a set of glass running boards. I think the big selling point on steel was not having to drill holes. I've already done everything else on my 52, I don't see drilling a few holes and some sandpaper work for paint prep as being too much more hard work to come.
Thank you guys for all your help and input! If it weren't for this forum my truck project wouldn't be anywhere near what it is now.

Thank you,

Jon Preston



Almost finished, just a few finishing touches, wheels, running boards to come.

 

Firstrider, can you take a photo of your door open so I can see how the rocker and running board meet? I am having a variance betwwen the rocker and bottom of the cab corners between the driver and passenger sides.
Sorry to hijack the post but a fine looking ride!!

Cheers, John

 

I bonded elevator bolts to the bottom of mine... no holes to drill... no hardware showing.

 

Interesting, pics and procedure would be appreciated. Thanks, L8R ZFLASH

 

You should have a space between them .

Make sure your body mounts are correct / new /etc.

Maybe post a pic of the problem areas .

 

Firstrider, I will start a new thread with photos.

cheers John

 

Thank you JTB321, I appreciate it! I'll keep this handy for if I run into any issues during running board installation.

 

Hey Jon,
We struggled with the fiberglass/steel decision as well. We ended up going
steel running boards & fiberglass fenders. Some of my family is well let's say portly to be kind.
I just couldn't see fiberglass running boards surviving.

We've had our set up now for a couple of years - the fiberglass is a lot tougher than I thought
it would be. I think you can go with fiberglass running boards with nothing to worry about.

I added a picture of our running boards painted with a bedliner product called Toff - very pleased with the look & it's tough...

Good luck over there.

Ben in Austin
1950 F1

 

Ok not the best photo but I restored this 1951 in 1994 and had no choice but fiberglass running boards on it no one made steel back then, they still look great with no problems! If that helps, steel is good too my other trucks have steel on them