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ksu_j's avatar
ksu_j
Explorer
Dec 14, 2018

Height Issues with 3/4 ton truck!

Hi Folks,

I'm hoping this is the right place to ask this question. My parents recently purchased a 2015 GMC Sierra 2500HD. The height of this new truck is crazy tall. They are getting up there in years now and for my Mom especially, stepping into the truck is an issue. This truck ALREADY has nerf bars that lower the step in height, but it's still 5 or so inches higher than their 2007 1500HD was.

Do you all have any add-ons, upgrades, ideas for how to make it easier on my Mom to get into the truck. Is there such a thing as a supplemental "add-on" step or something? Or nerf bars or running boards that hang down extra low or something? They won't be doing any offroading, so ground clearance isn't an issue.

One idea I've wondered, is they do not need this truck to sit so high. is there a way to lower it from how it's designed at the factory? It almost looks lifted, but I know it's not. It's just that tall from the factory!!!
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  • the_bear_II's avatar
    the_bear_II
    Explorer
    Dec 14, 2018
    Look for boat dock steps and find a two to 3 step lightweight model that can be carried in the back of the truck.
    https://www.westmarine.com/dock-steps
  • 2edgesword's avatar
    2edgesword
    Explorer
    Dec 14, 2018
    I had to install running boards and a tailgate step on my F-250 to make it accessible for my wife as a passenger and for me to get into the bed of the truck. We're both short people with knee problems so these add-ons were must haves for us. There are a lot of options as far as running boards but the tailgate step I have is similar to this...

    https://www.carid.com/truck-bed-steps.html

    It's spring loaded and retracts back up against the bumper after use.
  • pigman1's avatar
    pigman1
    Explorer
    Dec 14, 2018
    Find a local place that deals in pickup accessories, and trim and aftermarket equipment. Just make sure they also install. Bring the truck in and have a talk with them, letting them see and hear EXACTLY what results you're looking for. From lowering kits to automatic steps to a number of extra hand grips and handles, these guys should be able to come up with one or a combination of solutions to meet your needs.
  • ktmrfs's avatar
    ktmrfs
    Explorer II
    Dec 14, 2018
    yup. I know what you are going through. Our 2004.5 duramax 2500HD crew cab was replaced with the exact same configuration 2015.5 the 2015.5 is 2 inches higher than the 2004.5. bed height, seat height, etc. etc.

    And the factory nerf bars, while fine for us, aren't fine for my older aunts, uncles, parents etc. On the 2004.5 I didn't even use the nerf bars to slide into the seat. on the 2015.5 I need them.

    One thing you might look into are the electrically operated bars that retract when the door closes and extend when the doors open. these often come down lower than the factory nerf bars and may solve your problem. But they aren't cheap!
  • MFL's avatar
    MFL
    Nomad II
    Dec 14, 2018
    I have three vehicles, a Honda sport coupe, a late model Ford Escape and my 13 Ford F250 4X4. The easiest one for my wife to get into is the F250. It does sit tall, but the factory bars work well for her. The big plus is the grab bar, located just inside the door, which really assists the climbing in process. If the Chev has a similar grab bar, show them how easy it is to use.


    Notice the grab bar at upper front window, and the step bars.


    Jerry
  • Oasisbob's avatar
    Oasisbob
    Explorer
    Dec 14, 2018
    This is a common problem. Several after market steps are available. Until you have step installed a small plastic step will work.
  • donn0128's avatar
    donn0128
    Explorer II
    Dec 14, 2018
    If they bought a 4x4 thwt adds maybe 2 inches. Take the tublar side step off, you can find bolt on step that should make it easier.

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