So I've got a 2020 F-150 XLT, regular cab, long bed on order. With this configuration the only available running boards are black platforms, which I'm not really into. I prefer tube running boards that extend down a little farther. So while I was looking for aftermarket running boards, I found these from Iron Cross that extend from wheel-to-wheel. That seems like it would be convenient for getting into the bed, but I was wondering how sturdy they are. I don't have the truck yet to look at, but from the install videos I've watched it looks like the only mounting points are on the cab. So if there aren't any mounts at the bed it seems like it'd be pretty shaky once you get close to the rear wheel. Does anyone have these (or similar) running boards that go from wheel-to-wheel? Just wondering how secure they are.
Welcome to the forum @pastyfish Been off on a tangent or would have been back at you sooner. Put a set of the I-Boards on my father-in-law's last Father's Day as a family chip in on his SC 2013 F-150. I was very surprised at the bolt and plate construction of the Chi-wan made boards mounting system that fit into the factory holes. They did their home work and it was made even better than the FoMoCo system I've seen bolted onto other trucks. Cadmium plated hardware/plates and extra thick plates with slotted adjustments on the boards themselves made it an easy install for me handicapped and my 12 year younger brother-in-law. Those Iron Cross Tube type are cheaper for the same model #53-470 at other well known sellers @ $373 free ship. I'm sure if you look harder there is even a better deal. They would have to have a sturdy mounting system to handle even my big old Scottish/Nordic/Aramaic/Cherokee arse up there plus pulling something heavy out of the bed. Only thing about chrome/Stainless tube steps it the scratch factor from stuff on the shoes around the edges of the step pads. Stainless is a softer metal than most think it is.
