Nerf bars are tubelike devices, often made from stainless steel or chrome, that are fitted to the sides of race cars, pickup trucks and SUVs. Nerf bars were originally developed to prevent racing cars from getting entangled when passing one another, but they have since found a more practical, commercial application as a means to make it easier to enter and exit a vehicle as well as to protect the vehicle from off-road terrain.
It's important to make sure you have all parts and tools necessary for the task before you start the installation. You should inspect the parts for any damage before beginning. Also, take the time to make sure you buy bars that will provide you with the look (e.g., black, chrome, etc.) and level of durability you want (whether protecting the vehicle from runaway shopping carts of off-roading).
Westin Platinum Nerf Bars are the brand's top of the line series and are simpler than many other types of nerf bars, as they don't require drilling. When you first begin the installation, you will need to loosen the body mount bolts beneath the door frame. Make sure you have a dry, clean surface to work on, as you will need to lie flat on your back and partially under the vehicle in order to do this. Do not be afraid of breaking the bolt; you will need to put some elbow grease into it.
Once you've attached the mounting hardware through the rubber mount frame, bolt it back to the vehicle's frame, then tighten the front and rear of the bars. You can do all of this by hand and do not need any power tools. These bars also have a center mount that must be attached.
After you've finished mounting the bars, ensure that they are properly aligned and that the bolts are completely tightened.
Westin Nerf Bars possess a high-quality, exposed finish and must be cared for regularly using a non-abrasive automotive wax. This is the most effective way to ensure that the nerf bars have a long life. The use of cleaner waxes and other waxes that contain abrasives is not recommended, as they can scratch the finish and open the nerf bars to rust and corrosion. Westin Platinum Step Bars and E-Series step bars have lifetime warranties, so even if common preventive measures fail to keep them functional, they can be repaired or replaced at no additional expense.
