Installing Go Rhino RB30 Running Boards on a Ford F-150

Upgrading the chrome factory running boards from my 2020 Ford F-150 to a set of matte black Go Rhino RB30 running boards from RealTruck.com!

First things first, these Go Rhino RB30 Running Boards were donated by my friends from RealTruck in exchange for my take on the installation process. And let me tell you… it was easy. To the point where all you need is a 13mm socket and ratchet. Worth noting… you want to make sure you can fit under your truck, but if you don’t have a lift or a ramp, the larger folk aren’t sliding under their truck to swap these out. Also, check to make sure the running boards are compatible with your specific truck. My truck, “Truck Norris” is a 2020 F-150, with a crew cab and short bed. RealTruck lets you pick your make and model to make sure the running boards fit correctly.

Removing Factory Running Boards

At this point, I’m sure you’re like why is the woodworking guy working on his Ford F-150 here? Well, this is a DIY channel, and automotive upgrades ARE Do It Yourself upgrades. Tell me I’m wrong?

Now that we’ve got that settled, why am I removing the factory running boards? Chrome. So much Chrome. From the bumpers, to the door handles and more. It was fine when I got the truck new, but I want to chrome delete and this is a great first step.

With a ratchet and a 13mm socket, you can remove the nut to both stock F-150 factory running boards in minutes. Even though these have been exposed to the elements for the last five years, they required little effort. Keep them, as you are re-using the factory machine bolts in your frame when you install the new brackets. Sure, there are new nuts with the new running boards, but it’s good to hand on to them.

Installing Go Rhino RB30 Running Boards

The old running boards will slide right off. I recommend cleaning them up and listing them on Facebook Marketplace or something but they’ll sell quickly. While the factory Ford running boards have two brackets per side, the Go Rhino comes with three. Luckily, everything you need is already under your truck to slide these brackets in place and then tighten up the nuts with the 13mm socket.

With your three new brackets in place per side, just line up your new running boards and secure with the included t-style bolts. You can see a closer look in the video, but they fit in the track space on the bottom of the running board and tight from underneath the bracket with the same 13mm socket. Loosely tighten because you’re going to want to make sure your running boards are evenly spaced in terms of distance from the door frame (gap) and laterally to your truck cab.

Not only does the matte black of the Go Rhino RB30 Running boards look great with my truck, but it gives a tougher look, plus more clearance than my factory running boards. The RB30’s are inspired by what comes with the Ford Raptor, which pairs perfectly with my Torque Wheels Canyon rims and Bridgestone KO3 tires.

I’ve never been a big automotive guy, but with a no drilling, bolt on install, this was a breeze. Next up, I’ll be installing a new retractable Tonneau cover as an upgrade to my tri-fold cover. Stay tuned!