Do the OEM "running boards" fit a 2003 4.6L?

[VDRZANE]

I've read conflicting info here on X5 World on whether or not I can install the OEM running boards on my 2003 4.6L.

1) Does my 4.6L have the "fender flares" that would prevent me from installing the running boards, or are these "flares" a separate accessory that I don't need to worry about?

2) Now this might sound funny, but what exactly ARE the running boards? I've seen pics of them and they look GREAT, but are they a "hard part" or do they just stick onto the 'stock' black running board/sills that are already there?

3) How much do the OEM running boards cost? Who's best to get them from, Morristown?

4) Is this a DIY?

Thanks in advance for your assistance!

[NINCHS]

PM morristown and ask them. I dont see why they wouldnt. I think I have seen them on here somewhere. I tried look though a few of the "show us your X" thread and saw them on a few 4.8's but its tough to tell the 4.6's b/c so many people buy the 4.6 body kit/wheels/lights for their 3.0 or 4.4.


and morristown has the best price on them @ about $550. morristown sells them on ebay at this price too.

here is the DIY on a 4.8 http://www.xoutpost.com/articles/x5/b...tallation.html

[ncx]

Originally Posted by VDRZANE

I've read conflicting info here on X5 World on whether or not I can install the OEM running boards on my 2003 4.6L.

1) Does my 4.6L have the "fender flares" that would prevent me from installing the running boards, or are these "flares" a separate accessory that I don't need to worry about?

2) Now this might sound funny, but what exactly ARE the running boards? I've seen pics of them and they look GREAT, but are they a "hard part" or do they just stick onto the 'stock' black running board/sills that are already there?

3) How much do the OEM running boards cost? Who's best to get them from, Morristown?

4) Is this a DIY?

Thanks in advance for your assistance!

1. For your 4.6 (and any 4.8) you will need to purchase different rear flares that work with the new running boards to replace your current ones. The front flares are optional. 4.4 and 3.0 X5's don't have to replace the rear flares when adding the RB kit. Do a quick search on here and you'll find the part numbers. Morristown BMW can get them for you.

2. The kit comes with the aluminum boards and trim pieces. You will remove your current black covered running boards to mount the new, larger running boards.

3. Check with Morristown BMW for a price quote.

4. Absolutely. If you are handy and have basic tools you can do this. Refer to this article for some installation tips and pics: http://www.xoutpost.com/articles/x5/b...tallation.html You will need to purchase an inexpensive rail gun tool for the plastic plugs in the trim.

[VDRZANE]

I already contacted Morristown and they are supposed to get back to me, but the person I spoke with, Rashawn (?) (super nice guy, but not as knowledgable as Nick who must've been busy??), didn't know for sure about the flares or even if the running boards would fit my 4.6.

[VDRZANE]

Originally Posted by ncx

1. For your 4.6 (and any 4.8) you will need to purchase different rear flares that work with the new running boards to replace your current ones. The front flares are optional.

What is the deal with the flares? Why do I need different ones? How much do the flares run? Why don't I need front flares? Would it behoove me to get the fronts too, for looks sake? Or no need?

[2002Silver4.6is]

Originally Posted by VDRZANE

What is the deal with the flares? Why do I need different ones? How much do the flares run? Why don't I need front flares? Would it behoove me to get the fronts too, for looks sake? Or no need?

As you know the 4.6 has different rear flares than the 4.4 or 3.0. The flares on the running boards are different due to the fact the running boards are about 2.5 inches wider than the stock black running boards.

I think the aluminium running boards look great with only the rear fender flares. The kit comes with new wider non-flared front wheel well trim.

The rear trim for the running boards for the 4.6 w/ the flares are expensive. I think $240 each.

[ncx]

Agree with above. However, that price looks very high as I recall.

I also did not install the front flares. Check with LeMansX5, I believe he has the fronts installed if you want to see how it looks.

edit: just found the thread I was looking for, this shows the front flares on LeMans' X5 and the part numbers. http://www.xoutpost.com/x5-e53-forum/...-boards-2.html

[VDRZANE]

I am getting close to pulling the trigger, but am STILL confused about a few things. These other threads NEVER quite seem to set the record straight regarding the damn fender flares!

How many different fender flares are there?

1) 3.0/4.4 fender flares. Are these what are known as "normal" flares?

2) 4.6/4.8 fender flares

3) some kind of mystery flares that come with the running board kit

4) and finally (?) there are the extra flared fenders that I think are the same as these HERE.

Have I covered everything?? :eek:

[ncx]

Forget the 3.0/4.4 stuff, that does not apply to you. The only thing you need to know is:

1. You will not use the arches that come with the running board kit, they work on the 3.0/4.4 only, not 4.6/4.8. You will have these parts leftover, unused.

2. You will need to buy the correct rear arches, part numbers in the thread I supplied. Front arches are totally optional, not required, it's up to you if you want them.

That is it. Order the right flares for your 4.6, order the running board kit, get the rivet gun and a few extra rivets and you are good to go!

ps... the polyurethane flares you linked to from the catalog are hideous, IMO.

[NINCHS]

Originally Posted by ncx

Forget the 3.0/4.4 stuff, that does not apply to you. The only thing you need to know is:

1. You will not use the arches that come with the running board kit, they work on the 3.0/4.4 only, not 4.6/4.8. You will have these parts leftover, unused.

2. You will need to buy the correct rear arches, part numbers in the thread I supplied. Front arches are totally optional, not required, it's up to you if you want them.

That is it. Order the right flares for your 4.6, order the running board kit, get the rivet gun and a few extra rivets and you are good to go!

ps... the polyurethane flares you linked to from the catalog are hideous, IMO.

those flares are awful!