i have a 2009 platinum crewcab. i purchased this truck used and the previous owner did not use the running boards. i activated the running boards on the display and when i open the doors i can hear them activate and try to deploy yet they will not come down. ive seen a youtube video on proper dismantling and cleaning in order to try and salvage the boards. my question - Is there a way to manually get the boards down? In the up position I cannot access the bolts to take the boards completely off. Thx for any and all help!!!

 

Was yoour truck used for offroad or working in a dirty environment? If not just dirt binding up the mechanism, look for damage. Those running boards definitely affect the ground to frame clearance.

Look for evidence of obstacle damage. I lost the driver side running board on my 09 Explorer by high centering the vehicle on a trail. I wound up removing the running boards. If you use your truck in an environment like shown in my sig photo, it most certainly gets dust, dirt and damage.

I haven't got my F-150 stuck yet but it has seen some cruddy trails.

Use a pressure washer and clean really well. Then try some penetrating lubricant on the mechanisms.

 

thx for the advice. no damage to boards or brackets. i used the wand at the carwash but i will try power washer again. i do believe they are seriously bound up but my problem is in the up or closed postion i cant access the bolts to remove them. i dont want to cut them off. trying to salvage them. SOOOO How can i get the boards down in order to access the bolts?

 

Can you hold the step up and unbolt the motor from the drive bracket--is the Ford motor a bolt-on like the AMP steps?

 

i believe i can remove motor assembly but need to dismantle seized boards - so seized from no use and two winters can not access bolts for removal of boards