NERF BARS VS ROCK SLIDERS

Rock sliders they say only good for off roading? Rock sliders may also offer more side protection from cars and dings. Also a good anchor points. Adds some value.

 

Why are they called NERF bars?

 

They're good for plenty of things, but they're typically more expensive and involved to install than running boards or nerf bars. I personally never thought about preventing door dings, but that's a good benefit.

If they're angled and close to the body, as they should be for armor and to maximize clearance, they're not great as steps.

 

GTS...

The nerf bar has its origins in the world of racing. “Nerf” is the term for when a racer bumps another car in order to pass them during a race. In order to do this move safely, race cars are equipped with tubular fixtures on either side of the car body. These bars help protect the cars and prevent their tires from rubbing against each other (which can make either car spin out of control or flip over) during this maneuver.

From here... https://www.carparts.com/blog/running-boards-vs-nerf-bars/

 

Get some 5-degree sliders in raw steel to keep the cost down and then prime/paint them with Rustoleum!

I just refinished a set of rock sliders I bought used here off TW and it was surprisingly difficult to find information about how durable Rustoleum is. After using them as a step into the cab daily for about 2 weeks, I'm impressed by the durability of the paint. None has come off the top where I've been stepping. The only paint that's been removed was where someone opened their door into them and scraped a nice thin line down to the primer, but they're easy to touch up over time!

Also, having the extra weight between the tires has made the Tacoma a slightly more pleasant ride taking sharp turns. I always felt the Tacoma was a little bit too tilty on tight turns and these add a nice bit if dampening (Maybe 5-10%) to the ride experience.

 

I like the look of the nerf bars (dont do any major offroading where sliders would be needed.) I wanted them tucked up tight to the rocker panel, 2" main bar, and even length main bar on front and back of steps (a lot are longer on the rear.) Also, i didn't want steps that hang too low.

 

Very nice. Nice tints too. The step bars looks great. What’s the next “mod”?

 

https://overlandcustomdesign.com/co...l-joint-sway-bar-links?variant=37312879755430

 

Rock sliders offer superior protection vs nerf. When off roading.

Having a long bed. And only a small lift? And the places I will be taking my Tacoma, I know I need one.
The down side is the weight. Added lots of body armor under neat too. My gas mileage is terrible. 13.5 highway, under 10 most of the time. Also in 4- wheel every day.

With the gas prices climbing daily, it “hurts”. Besides the speedometer, the gas gauges is the 2nd fastest moving dial on my dash.” Ok” the search button on the radio move very quickly too.

 

Unless you want a specific look, go with what your need is. Daily highway driver probably does not need rock sliders.

 

Agree if you do not do a lot of off-roading. Mainly light style of off roading driving, daily driving , the cost of nerf bars vs rock sliders can be a expensive.

Rock sliders do offer more protection all around. And rock sliders is not for everyone. Unless you do a lot of off roading. Same for tires and lifts.

 

As a two-time winner of the "Oh shit that was loud I hope it wasn't important" award...

I approve of my new sliders from @GHOST SHIP

 

Ouch! Here is one reason to get a real rock sliders. Are rock sliders perfect? There are many brands and makers. Do your homework when spending that kind off money for rock sliders.

 

How well do serious rock sliders protect from T-bone side impact crashes & side-swipes? (Assuming the crash is one where the other vehicle impacts the rock slider first, i.e. their bumper is at or maybe a little below the level of the rock slider)

I'm interested to put on some heavy duty 5º angled sliders with kick-outs partly for increased crash protection while driving on street.

 

Great question. Will rock sliders protect you in a T-bone crash? Yes and NO . If the impact is above the rock sliders and with the greater speeds of the incoming vehicles . Even with roll bars …install? May not be enough?

Consider rock sliders as a bumpers, at lower speeds it will give you some protection.

Most people install rockers to protect the there trucks from “rocks”. Not accidents.

I am sure rock sliders will offer some protection from minor T-bone accidents. But I am guessing here.
At least no dings from cars doors…lol.

Please search the many pictures of accidents , car crashes, Owning a “ Tank” maybe a bit safer…lol