Running board mounting problem

I’m wanting to install a set of nerf bars or running boards on my ’17 SLT. I took a look underneath it yesterday to see what mounting options are available. It looks like there are dual mounting points at the pinch weld and inner rocker. However, I noticed something I’m not sure how to fix. The front rocker mount has what appears to be factory threads. The center mounts have nothing, just a hex opening. I didn’t even look at the rear mounts. The threaded mounts do not have an outer flange so they are not rivnuts.

Unfortunately, the threads are badly rusted and nasty. I don’t think I can save them with a tap. I haven’t had a chance to try anything with them since it was Easter and the kids and grandkids were here.

Has anyone encountered this, and is there a way to remove them so I can install new rivnuts?

I'd use a tap on them to clean them up. I'd go slow and use lots of lubrication. As to the middle and back holes, most running boards have a mounting system that uses the supplied holes. You could put rivnuts in them or use the system that comes with the boards.

The mounting points are there to be used I've never seen anyone take them out or replace them. As to boards that mount to the frame or differently, I have not come across any, although they probably exists.

Every set I've installed has used those holes. Doesn't mean I ve installed every kind made. My experience yours will be different.

So simple trick from a machinist if you care to listen. Go to a sport goods store and get a brass bristle bore brush for a rifle. And use WD40 in the hole and run the brass brush through several times, Each time flushing the hole with WD40. That will clear up most of the threads. Then when installing the step mount bolts apply some Copper anti seize. Will help prevent binding and lubricate the threads. Ive worked on parts that came from 80 year old mines with crusty nasty threads. Works EVERY time.

I got the threads cleaned out. I used a pipe cleaner and PB Blaster then ran a thread chaser through them. I checked the rear mounts as well, no anchors there either. Odd that there are factory anchors in the front only and not center or rear. Still haven't decided on which boards or bars I'm going with.

SmokeyHill said:

I got the threads cleaned out. I used a pipe cleaner and PB Blaster then ran a thread chaser through them. I checked the rear mounts as well, no anchors there either. Odd that there are factory anchors in the front only and not center or rear. Still haven't decided on which boards or bars I'm going with.

Click to expand...

The front ones might be used in the manufacturing process to hold the cab or something. But there are kits out there that include the rivnuts and "installation tool". If you get a set of steps, be sure to get a set that attach to both the rocker and the pinch weld. Otherwise, you're looking at repairing the rocker when the bolts get ripped out. The pinch weld mounts significantly strengthen the mounting system and virtually eliminate any flex.
Sidestep Hardware Mounting Kit Compatible with 2013-2019 RAM 1500 2500 3500 | 2014-2019 RAM 4500 5500 Running Board Mounting Hardware https://a.co/d/dyak2IW

I just did my 2020 Warlock
The front mounts are factory threaded holes
The middle mounts are just holes but there is a large hole above them that is covered with a piece of Tape
Peel the Tape off and work the mount bolts down from the large whole into the body until the stud comes out of the unthreaded holes
The directions I got were easy to follow and explain this
The big thing is don't tighten the brackets all the way down until you have the step bars on
you will have to move the bars forward or back to get everything aligned and the front at the same spot on each side
Then tighten all of the bolts and you are done