PartsEngine Canada Powerboards Guide:
BAAAAAAM! Now that I have your attention, let’s talk PowerBoards
I’m sure you’ve heard the saying, “the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step”. This is especially true when you’re climbing into your truck, jeep, or SUV. But if your ride is particularly massive, getting in and out of your vehicle can be a pain. Much worse, it’s just a matter of time before one of the vertical lunges required to access your cockpit sends a gaping split down your pants.
While a day-ruining, Three Stooges-esque pant splitting isn’t the primary reason to invest in PowerBoards, you have to admit, it’s up there. Topping that list is the convenience provided by that extra step; children and passengers with mobility issues will certainly be glad it’s there.
You may ask, why PowerBoards? Why not just install a set of sidesteps and be done with it? The answer is simple. The Wow factor. While sidesteps certainly get the job done, PowerBoards are literally a visual game changer.
AMP vs. Bestop Powerboards
Two of the top brands of mechanized running boards available today are produced by AMP Research and Bestop Inc.; and here at PartsEngine.ca, we’re pitting them against one another in a head to head, mano a mano style versus match.
AMP Research: PowerStep
The PowerStep features an integrated LED lighting system that helps light the way at night. Crafted from high-quality aluminum and using stainless steel accent strips, AMP’s PowerStep is one of America’s best sellers. Their claim to fame includes improving your vehicle’s fuel efficiency over conventional stationary running boards, due to the fact that the PowerStep retracts and tucks away when not in use, improving the aerodynamics of your vehicle.
Additionally, the PowerStep can weigh anywhere between 10-20% less than OEM running boards or after market steel tube steps. Impressive? Sure. But what does Bestop have to say?
Bestop: Powerboard Power Running Board
Like many mechanized running boards, the PowerBoard extends to meet your foot when the door is opened and retracts beneath the vehicle for total ground clearance when the door is closed. In addition to being built from tough extruded aluminum, the PowerBoard also boasts a highly durable powder coat that features a non-slip textured surface.
The PowerBoard also has an impressive weight capacity. I mentioned Bestop used strong aluminum in the production of their PowerBoard. How strong? The PowerBoard can hold 600lbs. of weight. On EACH side.
Possibly the most impressive thing about this product is that it has been “climate tested to operate in ANY climate”. Roughly translated, that means it can handle life in Canada – from withstanding maritime storms where the air is more salt water than oxygen, to the bitter cold of a winter’s night in Churchill.
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Bestop Power Running Board:
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| + Shop Bestop Power Running Board now |
| FROM: $1,182.47 CAD |
Bestop: Powerboard NX Wi-Fi Power Running Board
The Bestop PowerBoard NX model has all the same features and benefits as the original PowerBoard, but Bestop has pulled out all the stops to make improvements. Improvements in the form of their patent-pending wireless technology that drastically reduces installation time and complexity. Being a wireless unit, there is no cutting, splicing, or tapping into the complicated wiring harness.
Another advancement over the previous model: the PowerBoard NX no longer requires any contact with the interior of the vehicle; meaning no kick panels, door panels, kick plates, or carpeting are touched.
Did I mention the “Wow” factor?
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Bestop Powerboard NX Wi-Fi Power Running Board:
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| + Shop Bestop Powerboard NX Wi-Fi Power Running Board now |
| FROM: $1,408.47 CAD |