Stock Side Steps Rock Sliders

Hey guys, a friend and I are thinking of ways to use the stock side steps that came on my 2004 Tacoma as a base for rock sliders. Adding some bracing, extra tubing to them to make the stronger, etc. Does anyone have any other ideas on how it can be done and effective because we want them to work.

 

I had the same thought, but was worried that they are bolted to the body, and might cause some damage from movement/flexing.

 

We were thinking of just removing the factory mounts and welding thicker, stronger mounts onto the slider and frame. My main worry is how strong the metal of the side step is and if it would hold up even after adding some extra piping to it. (Trying to find a cheaper alternative to buying a prebuilt slider because as a high school student it's hard to get quality parts for cheap.)

 

Side steps are bolted to the body, even if you reinforce the steps they'll easily break where they bolt on and cause potential damage to the body.

Rock sliders are either welded or bolted directly to the frame so they're way stronger.

 

That's why my friend and I were thinking of removing the stock mounts and welding thicker tubing onto the steps and directly to the frame like true rock sliders. Maybe four going down the length? (What I've seen on most rock sliders.) Even with those tubes would it still buckle because it's not as thick a metal or what?

 

Yeah I'd imagine they'd still be weak in that area...may be okay for light rock use but I'd still be worried about them. Seems like a lot of work to go through just to be able to use the side steps as rock sliders, why not just get sliders? Certain brands make ones that function as both sliders and side steps, particularly the ones with the fill plates on them. C Fab and Demello I believe both make them, not sure if they do for first gens but it'd be worth looking into

 

Okay, I'll take a look at those. Maybe I could design my own? I'd really like to find a good cheap set, can't break the bank, but I want my truck protected when I off-road.

 

You can get sliders for $300, just sayin....

 

I have 'regular' sliders (no fill plates, straightforward design like the Trail Gear ones) and they work pretty well as side steps, they aren't much lower than the body though so you'd probably want a set that don't tuck up into the body. There are a lot of members on this site that are fabricators, maybe try posting in the regional forum for your state/area and see if someone might be able to help build you a set? Otherwise I know that companies like Trail Gear, BAMF, All Pro and maybe Metal Tech all sell sliders for 1st gens...most are in the $300-600 range unless you find a used set. Armor ain't cheap but it's a lot cheaper than having to repair something if it kisses a rock too hard lol.

 

True, I just found a DIY kit by Trail Gear for their rock slider. Does anyone have any experience with Trail Gear and how their products hold up?

 

I'd be looking for a used set of real sliders local to you.

They do exist. Junkyards, people removing them for different types, people removing them to trade in the truck, etc.

One of our slider vendor members might be willing to assist by verifying all the years and models they know a set of sliders will fit. 'We' think 1st gen, but it may be more than that.

Barring success there, find a welding class at a local votech. Talk with the instructor and see if you can get a class project going to build your sliders for material cost. It would give the class fabrication practice. Or you could see about enrolling in the class over the summer or at night and do it yourself. It's always useful to know a trade.

 

That's very helpful advice! Music is my business, but welding would be useful to have. Will save me money in the future as well. I may look into the class project. A local community college has a good welding program. I'll definitely scout around for used ones as well.

 

Yeah, just found the DIY Trail Gears for that much. Thinking about jumping on them just want to know their quality.

 

Here....this is what @presta24 meant

http://www.4xinnovations.com/Rock-Sliders_c_12.html

 

http://www.4xinnovations.com/955-04-Extended-Cab-Tacoma-Rock-Slider_p_72.html

 

lol

 

Noticed it was 60" and most of the double cab rock sliders I've seen are 78". Where exactly would the rock slider stop?

 

You have to pick the one right for your truck man

 

Look past the first product lol

 

I didnt see any for a first gen dc. Contact them, I'm sure if they dont stock em they can make em