Possible to install OEM running board E70

[cedhead]

Will do - thanks again!

[KYZRSOSE]

Originally Posted by cedhead

Thanks! I just completed the installation of the running boards on my 2009 E70 X5 - what a joke. I can't believe that BMW would charge $1,200 here in Canada for something that took me 1 hour with two guys - in my driveway! The only challenge is that the front clips are a little tight to release from under the fender(s)

So a question...Lets just say, there is this guy....handy, but not that handy...can use a hammer, not a rotary saw....can replace headlights bulbs , etc.., hasn't used a rivet gun thingy-ma-jiggy.....Can that 'guy' do it, you think?

Anyone care to post pics of an install....I read the instructions, but would like to see where, what, why, etc...

[cedhead]

Not sure if you are mocking me? but it is really easy. The most difficult part is removing the original rocker panel trim, particularly from under the front fenders because the clips are very tight.

If you can secure 24 bolts to existing holes, push in plastic plugs, and press firmly to (re)attach (new) clips, then you can do this!

Send me a PM if you would like more info. I did not take pictures along the way - sorry.

[KYZRSOSE]

Originally Posted by cedhead

Not sure if you are mocking me?

No No....was mocking my pseudo talent....

Thanks for the heads up....I may give a go at this thing....

[shashankmittal]

Originally Posted by KYZRSOSE

So a question...Lets just say, there is this guy....handy, but not that handy...can use a hammer, not a rotary saw....can replace headlights bulbs , etc.., hasn't used a rivet gun thingy-ma-jiggy.....Can that 'guy' do it, you think?

I am like you, handy with tools but haven't done anything before with any car. I just read the instructions and was successfully able to install the running boards in under 4hrs. That included a trip to a nearby auto parts store for the water proof sealant that you would need during installation. I can't believe BMW dealerships charge almost 5-6hrs of labor for installing the running boards!

I am now much more comfortable working with the car and I am planning to do some more mods on my own.

[KYZRSOSE]

Originally Posted by shashankmittal

I am like you, handy with tools but haven't done anything before with any car. I just read the instructions and was successfully able to install the running boards in under 4hrs. That included a trip to a nearby auto parts store for the water proof sealant that you would need during installation. I can't believe BMW dealerships charge almost 5-6hrs of labor for installing the running boards!

I am now much more comfortable working with the car and I am planning to do some more mods on my own.

What kind of tools did you use? My house is tool-less except for a few screw drivers (the drink too) and a hammer.

[shashankmittal]

Originally Posted by KYZRSOSE

What kind of tools did you use? My house is tool-less except for a few screw drivers (the drink too) and a hammer.

I would strongly suggest a nice toolkit that has a screw driver set and a ratchet set. Apart from this, a rivet gun so that you can replace the old rivets from your wheel arches with the new ones (2 for each rear wheel). You would need to buy these rivets as well.

[KYZRSOSE]

I think I will attempt this installation (don't want to pay stealer 2.5 hours of labor.) However, if you're ever behind me on the road, stay away. The running boards might fly off.

I looked at the rivets. Will they definitely break when I put them out? I got one loose, and it seems that I could re-use them.

[shashankmittal]

Originally Posted by KYZRSOSE

I looked at the rivets. Will they definitely break when I put them out? I got one loose, and it seems that I could re-use them.

The rivets in the wheel arch extension might damage while taking out, so you would need spare ones to replace the old ones. The running board rivets come with the running board, so you don't need to buy them separately.

[KYZRSOSE]

Anybody want to supervise me?