Propickup Digital Magazine
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/93583
PRODUCTREVIEW AMP POWERSTEPS AMP Research's automatic, electric-powered running boards are one of those convenience innovations you really appreciate if you are a pickup owner By Bruce W. Smith N ow you see them, now you don't. AMP Research's automatically deploying/retracting running boards, the PowerStep, which support 600 pounds, quickly motor down when you open your truck's door and just as quickly tuck back into place under the rockers when the door is shut. We've been using AMP's PowerSteps for the past six months on our 2011 F-250 Crew Cab 4x4, Project Super Crew and know why they have gone from being an accessory to a necessity (a "necessory" if you will) for those who have put them to use. PROPICKUP DIGITAL The steps operate independently of each other and automatically extend and retract when any of the doors on the driver or passenger's side are opened. This is a great convenience item. The drop-down height is ideal for both lifted and non-lifted pickups, which becomes a nice thing when work use turns to family transportation. The steps don't take away from break-over ground clearance, either, lessening the likeli- hood of getting high-centered going over sharp crests or berms at jobsites or in other off -road situations. Durability and sharp styling are also ap- pealing factors. They are lightweight, yet strong and highly durable running boards crafted from aircraft quality aluminum with a 5-year/60,000-mile warranty. The only downsides I see are: 1) The $1,000 retail price; 2) Installation takes about three hours, complicated only by the wiring involved to tie the opening of the vehicle's doors with the AMP controller; and 3) Power Steps don't provide any lower rocker/door protection like conventional running boards/nerf steps do. Otherwise, having running boards of this type on a vehicle you use as your rolling offi ce and family transportation is a no-brainer, must-have upgrade.