NEW Westin Pro-e Running Boards Offer Sleek Convenience
Whether you drive a dramatically-lifted pickup truck or a stock-height SUV, investing in a quality set of running boards is never a bad idea. And, if you want your friends and family to think you’re really smart, put that cash towards some state-of-the-art electric-powered running boards like the NEW Pro-e upgrade from Westin Automotive.
What exactly are electric running boards, you ask? Simply put, they are a type of side step that automatically extends and retracts as the vehicle’s doors open and close. That means, you get the convenience of a deployable step without sacrificing the sleek OEM lines of your vehicle.
What’s more, you get a pair of running boards that don’t need half as much cleaning and maintenance because they spend the majority of their time tucked up tight against the vehicle where they won’t suffer as much weather and road abuse.
Meet the Westin Pro-e Running Boards
Constructed from rugged and durable powder-coated aluminum, the Westin Pro-e running boards are a superior upgrade from clunky, traditional-style steps. In addition to the convenient power operation, they feature a 6-inch wide, durable step surface for sure-footing as well as LED lighting to vastly improve safety and visibility when entering and exiting the vehicle.
Each board is equipped with two waterproof IP68-rated motors to ensure solid performance in any weather condition, and an impressive weight capacity of up to 300 lbs. per side means you and your passengers can rely on these running boards to confidently guide you in and out of your vehicle each and every time you open the door.
When retracted, the Pro-e boards help eliminate wind noise and improve aerodynamics while driving. They’re also guaranteed to protect your vehicle’s rocker panels from accidental damage. (Seriously though, they’re practically invisible. You might find yourself opening and closing the vehicle door over and over just to watch the satisfying auto retract feature.)
Ranging in length from 57 to 82 inches, Westin Pro-e running boards are compatible with a variety of makes and models, including Ford, Chevy, RAM, and Toyota pickup trucks in mid-size, full-size, and heavy-duty configurations, as well as Toyota 4Runner SUVs, 4-door Jeep Wranglers, Jeep Gladiator pickups, and both 2-door and 4-door Ford Broncos.
They also come backed by a 5-year warranty on the textured black powder coat finish and aluminum material, and a limited lifetime warranty on the LED lighting.
Let’s Talk Installation
It’s true that installing electrically-powered running boards requires a little more finesse than popping on standard side steps. There are a few more parts and electricals that must be integrated, so if you’re uncomfortable handling wires, then it’s best to leave this part to a professional.
That said, Westin has taken steps to make the process as plug-and-play as possible. The included mounting brackets and hardware are vehicle-specific, ensuring a straight-from-the-factory-style fitment, and with more bolt-on processes than drilling requirements, the Pro-e boards install much easier than many other models.
The complete Pro-e Running Board kit comes with running boards, motors and linkages, LED lights, all necessary brackets and hardware, and full installation instructions. All you need to provide is a ratchet, hex key, socket set, electrical tape, wire stripper, torque wrench, and in a few cases, a drill and a step drill bit. For visual guidance, Westin provides easy-to-follow installation videos on their YouTube channel, like the one below:
In general, the key to a successful Pro-e installation is lining up the magnetic induction modules with the magnets on your vehicle’s doors to trigger the automatic open and close feature. Any misalignments between these two parts will cause the running boards not to raise and lower properly, so be sure to measure twice and install once. You will need someone to assist you briefly in order to mount the actual running boards, so that’s a good time to remind your freeloading cousin how you helped him move last year.
If style and convenience are two features you value in your aftermarket accessories, then the new Westin Pro-e Running Boards are worth your consideration. To learn more, visit https://www.westinautomotive.com.
