Rock chips without running boards?

[bigb]

I installed these Tyger Auto LanderX side steps which fit fairly tight against the body which I think protects some from rocks hitting the body. I still hear the rocks hitting but think they are hitting the side steps instead of the Ranger body. I sprayed bedliner material on the side steps so will see how that goes. I do have the Ford Splash Guards. I do like these side steps as they do not drag as much in deep snow as much as other side steps do.

Can you post up some pics of them installed?

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[bigb]

When these trucks first started showing up on dealership lots, all units without running boards automatically came with PPF on the section of the lower bed right before the rear tire. Like what shadowdragon above shows. When we first got them, we thought it was added by someone, only to contact Ford and told that is how they ship without running boards. Not sure if they still do it. but that would add some logic to rock chip issues.

Yep mine came with the film.

 

[bigb]

Points can get you Ford flaps. I have put them on numerous Focus and Escape SUVs and never had fender rock chipping with that wheelbase, and no boards on those vehicles. I put Weathertech on my trucks. I have not experienced rock chipping with Weathertech and AMP boards on trucks but will go the PPF route eventually.

I installed some Muslogy flaps

 

[AssolMarandy]

I see this mentioned but I'm not altogether clear, without running boards will a stock XLT be at more risk to rock chips or is this only an issue with oversize tires?

A stock XLT can get rock chips without running boards.
The tires can still throw stones.

Running boards help block some of that.
They protect the lower doors and panels.

Oversize tires make the problem worse.
They throw more debris outward.

 

[bgn]

Starting to see blemishes on the bed panels that have PPF after 100 or so miles of gravel. I have the Ford mudflaps with stock tires. Not good....

Can't quite get a good gauge on how much running boards would help minimize this issue. Not a big fan of them because I'm "off-road" often and I feel like I would damage them or the truck easily doing something dumb. And I also don't wanna spend $1500 or more on rock rails.

 

[Onceaneagle]

Put PPF on, have it removed if dinged, and put on more PPF. At $78 a side (my area), you can replace it a whole bunch of times before you drop the same money for fixed step bars that can also get dinged up or damaged. Mine has been on for months over gravel and dirt roads and no dings. You can also PPF the rocker panels. $150 a side where I live.

 

[alloyz250]

I'm sure it's just me, but I've never seen so much worry over a few paint chips with a group of guys almost all driving 4X4s!

 

[bigb]

Well when they're new and shiney, and the fifty or so grand you just laid out is still fresh in your memory, you tend to be a little careful.

 

[bgn]

Put PPF on, have it removed if dinged, and put on more PPF. At $78 a side (my area), you can replace it a whole bunch of times before you drop the same money for fixed step bars that can also get dinged up or damaged. Mine has been on for months over gravel and dirt roads and no dings. You can also PPF the rocker panels. $150 a side where I live.

What kind of PPF are you using? Thickness? Don't have a good idea of how much damage, if any, exists under my current PPF or how thick the factory one is.

 

[Onceaneagle]

What kind of PPF are you using? Thickness? Don't have a good idea of how much damage, if any, exists under my current PPF or how thick the factory one is.

I used XPEL Ultimate, 7.5 mils thick, 10 year warranty. Installed by Wichita Clear Bra, which did a full front including grill and mirror skull caps, as well.

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