Compared to the F150, the Ford Raptor will always look better. This is why many F150 owners try so hard to borrow some art from the Raptor.
One of the common accessories that F150 owners like to borrow from the Raptor is the running board. Other than helping you get in and out of the car easily, Ford Raptor running boards look stylish and can upgrade the aesthetics of your F150.
Without a doubt, any F150 owner would love to have Raptor running boards. But can they fit? Or do I have to make certain modifications? Raptor running boards fit easily on the F150.
They bolt up the same way they would on the Raptor. The only concern is that they may stick out a little bit more. But, this wouldn’t affect the aesthetics in any way. Your F150 will look amazing with Raptor running boards.
How Different are Raptor Running Boards?
Seeing that the Raptor running boards would fit the F150, you are probably considering getting them as soon as possible.
But before you do so, you must figure out how different they are from your custom F150 running boards. Here is a quick overview of F150 versus Raptor running boards;
-
Raptor Running Boards are Wider
Depending on how you look at this difference, it can be either an advantage or a disadvantage.
The wider a running board is, the more room there is for one to step on. This makes it even more convenient for you to board or alight from your truck.
F150 running boards tend to be narrower, and when you step on them, you may not get enough space for your feet to step on.
On the other hand, a wider running board can make the car look odd. Running boards are accessories that don’t need to be too big or too small. If they look bigger, they may affect the overall aesthetics of your car’s exterior.
Before switching to Raptor running boards, if you are the kind of person who may be affected by the size, we recommend that you first go through pictures of F150s with original and Raptor running boards. This way, you can identify if these are an excellent addition to your truck.
The additional width of Raptor running boards shouldn’t be a cause for concern. We have, however, come across complaints. Therefore, it’s an important factor to consider.
-
Raptor Running Boards Offer More Grip
This is proof that almost everything about the Raptor is better than the F150. Surprisingly, the Raptor running boards do have more grip than their counterpart.
If you install them in your F150, you will notice a change in grip, which can significantly enhance safety when boarding or alighting your truck.
During the rainy season, mud and water can make the running boards slippery. Wearing shoes that don’t offer adequate grip worsens the situation.
However, if you have Raptor running boards installed, you are guaranteed of better grip that will ensure you don’t fall easily.
-
Raptor Running Boards are Heavier
When you compare these two, the Raptor running boards are twice as heavy. This is an indication that they are stronger and more durable.
With these bad boys on your F150, they should serve you for a significantly long duration. You will feel the difference when replacing F150 running boards with those of the Raptor.
If you were only going for the looks and flares, now you know that Raptor running boards offer more grip, and they are wider.
These features are added advantages that you will realize when you replace the ordinary F150 running boards in your truck with those from a Raptor.
How Easy Is It to Install Raptor Running Boards on the F150?
It’s super simple. Raptor running boards bolt right on in the F150. You don’t have to change anything since they bolt fairly easily to the standard mounts. They may bolt to only two mounts in some cases, but this should securely hold them in place.
If you buy a Raptor running board, it will often come with a full kit, including everything you may need.
The kit comprises bolts, nuts, and other equipment that will help you install the Raptor running board on both sides of your truck. It should also come with a manual on how to install the running boards.
This is a process that should take less than an hour. If it seems like a lot of work, you can always have an expert mechanic install the running boards for you.
Where Can I Get Raptor Running Boards for My F150?
You will find Raptor running boards in any marketplace that sells Ford accessories. If you have already decided that you want the Raptor running boards, finding them should be the least of your worries.
Some websites sell aftermarket raptor running boards. That should be the first place look. You can also find them on popular eCommerce stores like Amazon and eBay.
If there is a junkyard near you, inquire if you can get running boards for Ford Raptors. The problem with second-hand parts is that they may have some faults, which can, later on, make the boards unstable.
The bottom line is, as long as you have made up your mind to get Raptor Running boards, getting your hands on some shouldn’t be very difficult.
The prices may vary from one seller to another. Therefore, don’t hesitate to do some further research.
Also, consider factors such as warranty when you are shopping for running boards. A warranty guarantees that if the boards get damaged, the manufacturer will repair or replace them for you.
What Features Do Raptor Running Boards Have?
Raptor running boards have more features than the F150. This is evident when you look at both options.
The Raptors aren’t only stylish but are quite practical.
If the running boards on your F150 are worn out or damaged, then this could be high time for you to replace them with those of a Raptor. Here are some features of raptor running boards worth noting;
- Raptor running boards are available as powered side steps. This unique feature comes into play when you open the door. They slide out and vice versa. For those of you who don’t like seeing running boards all the time, getting powered side steps can be a great idea.
- Some raptor running boards have integrated bed steps. These help you access cargo at the back of your truck easier.
- Another quality feature that Raptor running boards have is an advanced grip. By providing a strong grip, you will never slide easily, even when your shoes are wet and muddy.
- Finally, raptor running boards are known to have an impressive rugged design. This makes them durable, stylish, and functional.
Not to say that F150 running boards don’t have the same features. But, the raptor running boards are by far more appealing, functional, and aesthetically pleasing.
Are Ford Running Boards Interchangeable?
It’s not just the running boards, but several things are interchangeable between the F150 and the Raptor. This can leave you wondering, what about other Ford models? Are their running boards interchangeable?
You can install a Raptor running board on an F150 and vice versa. You can also install an F150 running board on a Ford Expedition.
In most cases, these two should fit perfectly. This is because the distance to the mounts is usually the same. One may, however, be slightly longer or wider. You can easily modify this by cutting them or installing them as they are.
What If Raptor Running Boards Don’t Fit My F150?
This will be a very rare occurrence. Many people have replaced Raptor running boards with F150s without facing any significant challenges, and you can also do the same. However, if you own an old model, the newer running boards may not fit easily.
In such situations, you will have to engage in some slight modification.
By modification, we mean drilling the running boards and cutting them where necessary to fit without any problems. Remember, modification isn’t meant for everyone.
Therefore, if you are not careful, you can damage the running boards. For car owners who are unsure how to modify Raptor running boards to fit an F150, we recommend hiring an expert to help you with that and installation.
An expert mechanic will have the right tools and the required set of skills needed to install Raptor running boards.
Are Raptor Running Boards Worth It?
Replacing F150 running boards with Raptors is an activity that will use up a considerable amount of your time, effort, and money. Therefore, before you start, you need to ask yourself, is it worth it?
That depends on your preferences. F150 running boards work just fine.
However, if you want something that looks more stylish, has a better grip, and gives you more room to step on, then Raptor running boards should be your top choice.
Considering how durable they are, you shouldn’t hesitate to have them in your F150.