OEM Rock Rails

Hello all, this is my first post.

I just picked up a 2024 4Runner Pro that will be my wife’s daily driver. This is a bit of a seismic shift for her since the car it’s replacing is a ZL1 1LE. Translation: we’re jumping into an entirely different format than we’re used to.

My question is this: are the OEM (Toyota accessory) rock rails a decent option to function as a side step/running board? I have no problem getting in and out of the car, but my wife is 5’ 2” and needs something to step on to comfortably get in and out. We’ve looked at the Predator tube steps, but they are on roughly 150% of the 4Runners in our area and we’re not really feeling them from an aesthetic perspective. And running boards are out of the question. Just…no.

If you have the Toyota rock rails and a short person using them to get in and out of the car, please share your experience, both good and bad.

 

Nah Toyota OEMs don't function as steps since they don't stick out much. Look into RCI, Cali Raised, Wescott Designs, etc especially the 0 degree ones. Those stick out far enough that you could use as a step, but remember these will never be low like running boards, and plus these give the 4R a lot of character.

 

No, they are not a step at all.

 

CBI sliders stick out the farthest and will function the best as a step: https://cbioffroadfab.com/product/5...l-series-bolt-on-rock-sliders/?v=3e8d115eb4b3

An A-pillar grab handle helps with getting in and out: https://www.ktjo4x4.com/collections.../4runner-driver-side-grab-handle-5g-clearance

 

RSG would be a good option for a slider that functions as a step. Had these on my Tacoma, will probably get the. For the runner too. Although I do like the minimalism of the OEM rails too, they won’t provide you much of a step.
https://rsgmetalworks.com/collectio...yota-4runner-flat-sliders-with-grip-top-plate

 

https://caliraisedled.com/products/step-edition-bolt-on-rock-sliders-for-2010-2024-toyota-4runner

Let us know if you havea any questions on the 0 degree sliders!

 

Unless you plan on rock sliding, why not go with OEM running boards. They are about half the price of the sliders and provide a very good step

 

My wife is about the same height as yours, and she uses the RSG sliders (0° no kick out, grip top plate) every time she enters. Heck, I just turned 70 yesterday, and am beginning to use them as a step more and more each day myself. They're very useful for accessing the roof also.

 

Way less than half of the price of sliders, especially if you look on fbmarketplace or similar. I sold mine for $100 on there not long ago and there were plenty of other sets as well.

 

Although if this guy is near you ...

https://www.4runners.com/threads/greenlane-sliders-400.39129/

 

Have you considered running boards, rather than rock sliders?

I don't do any rock crawling, but wanted a quality product in a timely manner to facilitate entering the vehicle...

I decided on RSG sliders, but the weight (about 70 pounds each) and the wait (a month) gave me pause...

I saw a you tuber, untamed motors, discussing removing RSG sliders and replacing Go Rhino RB20 steps on his Toyota...

I took my port installed Predator Steps (that I just paid $699 for) off and installed the Go Rhino RB20 steps.
I mounted them backwards to give greater step area where I need it, the come already Line-X's and are 7.5" wide

I ordered them on Memorial Day, and got them three days later...for less than the crappy Predator steps cost

I got mine here, and they same day ship
https://realtruck.com/p/go-rhino-rb20-running-boards/v/toyota/4runner/2024/

 

Out of curiosity, I weighed the RSG sliders I'll install later this week. They're the flat, grip top plate, DOM version. Rounding up to the nearest pound, the driver side is 56 pounds, and the passenger is 63. The difference is due slightly less frame-mount plate on the driver side to accommodate KDSS. (I don't have KDSS, but the newer version rails are designed to fit with and without).

 

Welcome

 

I went with Greenlane Offroad Sliders.
Light, strong and just the perfect size as a step as well.

 

I was comparing OEM new prices listed on Toyota.com

 

My Westcott sliders new I believe are ~ 1600. Not sure OEM but I believe they are less than half that. I would definitely not buy sliders just to have steps. I also would recommend buying oem secondhand as most are in excellent shape. Obviously you'd want to see them first though to make sure.

 

Those look good
I like the 25 pounds each weight, no rusting or corroding aluminum, and free shipping too...
at current exchange rates, price is $1072 USD

did they hit you with VAT or any other taxes when you checked out?
how long did it take to get those?

 

I forgot to point out the exchange rate savings.
I only got hit a few bucks from Fedex for import, like $30. No VAT on checkout.
If they have any fabricated, a week tops.
If they need to fab them, add maybe a week.
If you are going to order, drop and e-mail to see what they have, they answer within 24 hours. Great folks to work with.
Have their rack and ladder as well.
If I ever need any skid plates beyond the engine, it will be from them as well.

 

Our Rock Sliders are around $1000, in stock, and free shipping! Check them out here:
https://caliraisedled.com/collections/rock-sliders

 

Thank you all for the replies, you’re pointing me to options and perspectives I wouldn’t have been able to find on my own. I really had no idea there were so many options available out there. And I appreciate the knowledge that the Toyota rock rails won’t work as a (decent) step. Now I need to wade through the options and make a decision.

 

LOL get used to it...so many good options for anything you want to add the the 4runner.
You just need to see what fits your needs.

 

... and budget

 

I like my angled RSG's and the wife uses them as a step. But there are so many options out there nowadays!

My buddy has the flat top RSG's and they work better as a step.
My priority was protection and clearance. If your priority is to have a step the flat top RSG or similar may work better than the angled options.

 

Vote for Westcott (shorter wife and 3 littles, the smallest being just 6 use these) ... just because their quality and customer service is top notch. Although, again ... if you do not need sliders (ie you never plan on being in a position where you'll potentially be banging the bottom of your 4Runner on rocks) just check market place for some fresh running board takeoffs, or new if you don't want to deal with the used market.

 

If your not looking for rock sliders. Look up the oem "trail" running boards PT938-89200. You can often find them on your local fb marketplace at less then half the Toyota price.

 

I found my oem rock sliders used for $300.
Minor surface rust around weld areas.
I cleaned up the minor rust areas and painted with brushed Rustoleum flat black.
Toyota engineers designed them, keeping the collision crush need in mind. I think I will use them till they are ruined by use.

 

Welcome to the forum!

If you do plan on going off road then look at the rock sliders. They are not just for rock crawling, they protect the rocker panels for the time you slip in a rut or cut the turn too close on a tight trail. I think they are worth it if you get outdoors.

Otherwise get the running boards you like!

Cheers!