Upgrading your Sprinter van with drop-down running boards is one of the most practical and aesthetically pleasing modifications you can make. Not only do they provide a safer, easier step up into your rig—especially if your van features a lifted suspension or oversized all-terrain tires—but they also add a rugged, finished look to the exterior.
Whether you're building out a dedicated camper or outfitting a reliable work van, getting the installation right is crucial for long-term durability. Below is a complete, step-by-step breakdown of the installation process of ZealerVan's Sprinter Modular Drop Down Running Boards
Tools and Materials You Will Need:
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A sturdy vehicle scissor jack (and wooden blocks for leveling)
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Power drill and appropriate metal drill bits
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Impact driver and a socket wrench set
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Heavy-duty rivet gun
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Safety gloves and protective eyewear
Step-by-Step Installation Process
Step 1: Level and Align the Board Start by lifting the running board into its mounting location along the lower rocker panel. Using a vehicle jack placed on a wooden block for stability, raise the step bar until it is perfectly leveled and aligned with the factory lines of your Sprinter. Take your time here; proper alignment ensures the step is both visually appealing and structurally sound before you start making modifications.
Step 2: Drill the Lower Mounting Holes Once the board is securely held in position by the jack, locate the reserved mounting spots along the pinch weld. Using your power drill, carefully drill out the holes through the designated mounting locations to prepare for the hardware.
Step 3: Insert Bolts and Attach Support Brackets With the holes drilled, insert the mounting bolts front-to-back through the newly created mounting points. Next, slide underneath the van and place the heavy-duty support brackets onto the exposed bolts. Secure them loosely at first using the provided self-locking nuts.
Step 4: Secure the Upper Mounting Points with Rivets The support brackets need to be anchored firmly at the top to support maximum weight capacity. Using your drill, create holes for the rivets at the upper mounting points of the brackets against the vehicle's underbody structure. Insert the rivets and use your rivet gun to compress and tighten them fully, ensuring a rock-solid, heavy-duty connection. Once the rivets are in, go back and fully tighten all the self-locking nuts from Step 3 with your impact driver.
Step 5: Attach the Footbeds Move back to the outside of the van to finish assembling the steps. Take the textured footbed step pads and place them over the drop-down bars. Insert the bolts down through the footbed openings and secure each one from underneath using self-locking nuts. Tighten them down firmly to prevent any rattling or shifting while driving.
Step 6: Final Checks and Repeat Give the installed board a firm shake and step-test to ensure everything is locked down tight and can easily support body weight. Once verified, move to the other side of the vehicle and repeat the entire process for the remaining boards.
Ready for Your Next Adventure
With your new drop-down running boards securely mounted, accessing your Sprinter van is safer and much more convenient. It’s the perfect addition to a highly functional, well-built rig.
Happy building, and enjoy the road ahead!