home made rails/steps
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Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: Pensacola
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home made rails/steps
I really liked the factory plastic side rails on my jeep because you can stand on them to get to the top, tie stuff down, wash it, etc. A stump took one out trail riding though which made me look at a lot of aftermarket stuff. I liked a lot of brands but decided to make my own using factory Rubicon rails as a start and mounting point. I have a lot more pics but could only download 5 so this is a real abbreviated version from start to finish. I added the machine bead lock strips below each door to match the Pro Comp rims and break up the long rail edge. A lot of work for cosmetics but it did make a difference in the look. I am going to fab some added frame mounts as well for extra strength but I'm taking a break for a few weeks. They are made from 3/16 steel like most of the good aftermarket stuff and weigh about 74 lbs each. I top coated them with roll on bed liner material. They are sturdy and give a lot of space for standing on like the factory plastic ones and I tried to keep them pretty tucked up for ground clearance. Looking back, I would have cut the Rubi rails outside edge off prior to welding which would have saved some weight and angled the rear edge more but I'm happy. Not counting my labor and alcohol, I have about $500.00 in them. if anyone wants more pics, I can try to send them but I'm not great with downloads.