Protecting Running Board Finish
#1
Protecting Running Board Finish
Finishing up the restoration of a 1950 F47 Truck and was wondering if there were some ideas out there about protecting the paint finish on the running boards. I am aware of the aluminum step plates that bolt to the running boards. However, I was hoping for something to protect the entire running board from random people stepping on them at shows, etc. I realize that I am being probably somewhat unrealistic, but a lot of hard work and money went into this project. Just want to keep it looking as good as I can for as long as I can.
Thanks for your ideas.
Thanks for your ideas.
#2
#3
I try not to use the running boards to get in and out of the cab but sometimes depending on how it's parked I do. But my truck, although nice looking, is not a show truck or a trailer queen. I like to drive it on dry days but if my running boards get too scratched it's easy to remove them and paint them.
I had my 55 F350 painted last year. On the bigger trucks you do need to step on the running boards. I wanted something on them that would not be easily scratched. I researched this here at FTE and online. The consensus was to spray them with a tough undercoating, not bed liner. I am not happy with it. The color came out a dark gray, not black. It is showing some signs of wear. And at one spot a small piece chipped off. So I might take them off and spray them gloss black. I am not sure how that paint will wear overtop the undercoating.....
I had my 55 F350 painted last year. On the bigger trucks you do need to step on the running boards. I wanted something on them that would not be easily scratched. I researched this here at FTE and online. The consensus was to spray them with a tough undercoating, not bed liner. I am not happy with it. The color came out a dark gray, not black. It is showing some signs of wear. And at one spot a small piece chipped off. So I might take them off and spray them gloss black. I am not sure how that paint will wear overtop the undercoating.....
#4
Finishing up the restoration of a 1950 F47 Truck and was wondering if there were some ideas out there about protecting the paint finish on the running boards. I am aware of the aluminum step plates that bolt to the running boards. However, I was hoping for something to protect the entire running board from random people stepping on them at shows, etc. I realize that I am being probably somewhat unrealistic, but a lot of hard work and money went into this project. Just want to keep it looking as good as I can for as long as I can.
Thanks for your ideas.
Thanks for your ideas.
#5
#6
I found and have been using KBS-Coatings. They are brushable, sprayable, and more durable than powder coating. at least that's what they claim. So far, I am happy with the results. you can hit the frame with a hammer and it doesn't chip.
KBS Coatings Website
KBS Coatings Website
#7
I was going to reply but Abe beat me to it . Didn't know how people would react to them but spectators will stop & read them . They are dual purpose . Tells a brief history of the truck & protects the running boards from one ( children ) attempting to step on them . Also have them on " Art" . Abe , thanks for the mention .
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#9
#10
After painting they could be covered with a clear plastic film which is used on front facia's and stone chip prone areas . It would eventually scuff but could be redone after time and not damage the paint . There should be no problem finding a shop , anyone doing wraps I would think .
#12
And the OP has a 50 truck and the gear and lightening bolt is for 53-56.
#13
Hello, i've seen trucks at car shows that have oak or maple "strips" that fit in the grooves of the running boards just a little higher and the whole length of the groove. I've also seen polished stainless "strips" which serve the same purpose. Looked them up on flea bay, finally found them, and it seems like they were $60.00 Per Strip! Either way would require a lot of penetrations in those running boards. Good luck, larry
#14
#15
Hello, i've seen trucks at car shows that have oak or maple "strips" that fit in the grooves of the running boards just a little higher and the whole length of the groove. I've also seen polished stainless "strips" which serve the same purpose. Looked them up on flea bay, finally found them, and it seems like they were $60.00 Per Strip! Either way would require a lot of penetrations in those running boards. Good luck, larry
Unfortunately I do not have a good picture. This is the best that I have.
EDIT: I found one a little bit better.