I just installed the running boards on my X5. Check the NAPA store close to you and get the rivet gun as mentioned by Wuzin. You don't need flares if you don't have 4.8, save yourself some money. Good luck.

There is a write up for this on X5World, and you might also want to check the archives at BimmerFest and, dare I say it, Turdfly. Lots of great info is out there! Good luck with your install and post some after pics!!

I really like the look of the flared wheel well arches on the 4.8... how could I go about getting them installed on my 4.4, along with the alum running boards?

Also, are the stock running boards load bearing? I suspect that they're not, so I haven't tried applying any weight to them... :nervous:

If you want flared wheel arches then discard the arches which come with the running boards and buy these for more money. You can use Crevierbmw or pacificbmw for some discount. Good luck.
Flares, rear left 51 71 7 051 035
Flares, rear right 51 71 7 051 036
Flares, front left 51 71 7 051 037
Flares, front right 51 71 7 051 038

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts...52&hg=51&fg=95


Without r/b flared wheel arches
http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts...23&hg=51&fg=20

I thought the flared fenders would not work with the running boards?? I was under the impression that only the "normal" fender arches would work with the running boards.


hmmmm I could be wrong. :D I kind of hope I am b/c I wanted to use the flares, but was told they would not work the r/b.

You're correct. The standard flares that came on 4.8is will NOT work with the running boards. If you have 4.6is or 4.8is, you will need to purchase the extra rear flares that will match the original flares and fit the running boards.

Stock 4.8 comes with flares on only rear wheels. The part#s I have listed in my previous post have flares on all wheels and goes with the running boards. I just did this last weekend on my 4.8. Good Luck. :thumbup:

Got any pics? :dunno:

They are flimsy. Don't try. The only section where they have a little bit of steel (or alum?) support is the rear half section, by the rear doors. The front haft is just hard plastic with no support whatsoever.

I will take some pics tomorrow and post it.