I want to install nerf bars/running boards on my new F150 SuperCrew Lariat (white with arizona beige along the bottom) and have been offered Westin signature series 3" tubular bars for $225 or Ford factory bars in either 4" or 5" tubular (sort of oval shaped I think) for $325.

I think the prices are ok for these but I don't know about looks. Can anybody offer tips on how these two compare or direct me to some pictures?

Also, I'm leaning towards black because I think it would look good to balance the black caps on the truck bed, but most people seem to prefer chrome/stainless (they cost about $100 more). Just looking for advice.

Thanks,

 

had both and like the westin they fit better to the truck they dont hang down as far if you like factory boards i have a set of take off lariat boards i will sell cheap

 

I like the Ford 5" chrome oval that I put on my SCREW. Ford list was $425 + tax, but I talked another dealer down to $345 + tax. The ones I installed turn in slightly on both ends. I think this style looks a lot better than the factory bars.

 

ckeck my profile, i have the westin step bars on my 04 STX, I think they look great !

 

The pic is a bit dark but maybe it will give u an idea of what u are looking for.

 

I put the ford 5" chrome ones that turn in on the end on my scab lariat 4x4 and I really think they look sharp. They are oval and have a black molded plastic "grip plate" on them. It looks good with theplastic caps on the bed. Also, I pais 310.00 +tax for them. Side note- Ihaven't put them on yet, but the molded plastic mud guards I bought look like they should fit no problem. They're also Ford accessories. I guess this was a problem with the factory ordered boards.

 

Im not a big chrome fan..... I just ordered the Westin nerf bars, Platinum - which are the stainless steel with black powdercoat. These are guaranteed for life. They will be in tomorrow. I think the Westins give the truck more of a meaty look than ford's.

Only thing chrome on my truck is the tool box. Black is sportier.

 

Just put a set of the black westins on last week. Have one picture in gallery if you want to check them out. Paid $196 including tax.

 

I bought my black Westin Signature Series step bars before my truck even arrived at the dealership. I bought them from a Ford dealer (longlewisford) selling stock on ebay for $200 ... (no tax, free S&H). His ebay listings are here. They've been great!

Best pic (from my gallery) I have of them is here.

 

Personally, I think the Westins look better than the Ford ones, so I went with the Black Westins on my white XLT. Sorry, no pics yet.

The only downside I've noticed is that the Ford molded plastic mud guards won't fit with the Westin nerf bars so I had to take the guards back to the dealer for a refund. Someone said the Huskies will fit but I haven't tried them yet.

 

And that's why you want the Westin over the Ford. Ford's are guaranteed to rust at the seams, and it's a hit-or-miss thing if they'll cover it under warranty. For the money, it's tough to beat the Westins.

 

I thought the Ford Bars where made of aluminum, where do they rust? I am assuming the brackets are steel.

 

Ford bars are just chrome-plated steel. Look at any older Ford with factory nerf bars, you'll see rust developing around the seams.

 

I orginally ordered the Westin Oval nerf bars, but the place I ordered it from said it was back ordered, so they suggested the Aries nerf bars, and they look exactly like the Westin with the exception that Aries is polished stainless steel. I never knew Aries had them, but I am pleased with them. I have pics in my gallery.

 

Are these the ones we are talking about? It was on ford.com

Part Number: 4L3Z-16450-MAC
Part Description: Corrosion-resistant, chrome-plated aluminum tubing is rugged yet lightweight. Wide, slip-resistant step pads are made of plastic to provide sure footing. Available in 4” and 5” tube diameter. Easy to install; no drilling is required.
Color: Chrome
Unit MSRP: $378.40
Fits:
Ford F-150 2004