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Are there really no aftermarket side step options?

ryanO

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We already agreed to numbers and I rather not give a chance for recognitions. At first I was bummed but after thinking about it I realized I'd never use that side step anyhow. My gear will either be pushed to the very back (below rear window) or I'd need to jump up into the bed, which would actually be harder from the integrated step than just using the rear tire.
https://realtruck.com/p/traxion-tai...QiTHmKNmGAevbu3ExzhQ1IWSt-vj93JRoCWswQAvD_BwE

Something like that will fit.
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alrashid2

alrashid2

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Thanks for sharing but not what I'm looking for. I just need a simple, small, retractable step
 

k184

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I just took a piece of square tubing longer than the tailgate and welded a flat piece for a step. I stick it in the tow receiver. Works great and cost very little.
 

jmt8706

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And now that I'm thinking about it, I don't think those steps would help getting into the bed anyway. They look to help reach into the bed from the side, but wouldn't work for stepping over the side into the bed. Also I could see myself tripping on the tailgate cables trying to step over from that.
I just used mine this morning, very helpful. I used the driver side, left foot on the step, other foot onto the tail gate, never got caught on the cable. There is enough room where you won't get tangled.
 

stemplar

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Thanks Ryan. I did see that but the cost was just too much to justify. Wish I had ordered them!

Again, just kind of confused why there aren't any aftermarket options when the other model trucks from Ford and even Toyota Tacomas have many to choose from... just seemed weird.
This thread has details on purchasing and installing both Ford and aftermarket side steps: https://www.ranger6g.com/forum/thre...teps-on-ranger-xl-xlt-diy-instructions.26971/ So if you don't want to spend the money, that's totally fine, but don't say that there aren't any aftermarket solutions when there are. FWIW, I think the advice to talk to your dealer is really good advice; worst they can say is "no" and you either take the truck you ordered, or lose $500 and start over (preferably at a better dealer). I seriously doubt the dealer will be happy to let you choose the latter.
 

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alrashid2

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This thread has details on purchasing and installing both Ford and aftermarket side steps: https://www.ranger6g.com/forum/thre...teps-on-ranger-xl-xlt-diy-instructions.26971/ So if you don't want to spend the money, that's totally fine, but don't say that there aren't any aftermarket solutions when there are. FWIW, I think the advice to talk to your dealer is really good advice; worst they can say is "no" and you either take the truck you ordered, or lose $500 and start over (preferably at a better dealer). I seriously doubt the dealer will be happy to let you choose the latter.

Thanks for sharing but that's not what I'm talking about. As I said, I've tried the ford integrated side steps and didn't find them all that useful. There are zero aftermarket retractable bed steps out there unfortunately
 

HighDesertRanger

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Thanks for sharing but that's not what I'm talking about. As I said, I've tried the ford integrated side steps and didn't find them all that useful. There are zero aftermarket retractable bed steps out there unfortunately
Here's a powered one that ships from China: https://www.ebay.com/itm/1459639788...DJsjQ6Bp1QQd8H7ATALg0DDawIams9Q5ULYDKxOA-Rj5k

Here's another non-powered option: https://www.ebay.com/itm/1451943345...Z54pHfx-eP2bPd9y65qjcLOgMiirQ2H8aApGmEALw_wcB

They're out there if you look.
 
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alrashid2

alrashid2

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Not interested in power but thanks!

Just shocked the other trucks have like 5 similar models of simple, retractable steps and there's not one for this truck. Oh well
 

HighDesertRanger

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alrashid2

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HighDesertRanger

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AH, got my hopes up! This is just a generic one that based on the reviews, doesn't actually fit anything specific. Would require creating some sort of bracket that is a bit beyond me.
Take it to your local aftermarket shop and have them bolt it on. Probably take 30 minutes. Done.
 

ShadowDragon24

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And now that I'm thinking about it, I don't think those steps would help getting into the bed anyway. They look to help reach into the bed from the side, but wouldn't work for stepping over the side into the bed. Also I could see myself tripping on the tailgate cables trying to step over from that angle!
They would work for stepping onto the tailgate tho. left foot in the step, right foot on the corner of the bumper, then you move to the tailgate, or once you step up onto the corner of the bumper, you should be able to get your leg over the bed side. they are almost at the rear bumper anyways, snd not up the side. you shouldnt need to step over the cables at all.

I want them, soley for the ease of getting stuff off my cap rack once its installed, already got it on the roof. the oem side steps make getting the cab rack and the front little bit of the cap accessible. just need some grab handles to hold onto

That being said. My 5'6" short ass can sit on or get my knee up on the gate

Ford Ranger Are there really no aftermarket side step options? 20260505_184119
 

Stief

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So I have a 25 lariat with tow package and same issue. Had back fusion surgery recently so I too in the same spot. What I will be doing is a 14” hitch extension and an extended hitch step with a 2” drop built into the step.
I plan to bolt the step to the end of the extension and not use the cotter pin when put into the hitch. Just put into the receiver, use it to get into the bed and pull it out when done.
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