Now that we have the location for the step the next critical dimension was the height. Making it too high could be a problem for head clearance making it necessary to duck while entering. Too low making it necessary to climb in. Also ground clearance could be an issue (not that we will be rock crawling with it) but a consideration never the less. Experimenting with different block heights a compromise was met taking in functionality and looks. Cardboard patterns were made up then transferred to steel plate. Cut out on the band saw, drilled and then bent. 1" steel shafting was cut to length and the ends drilled and tapped for 1/2 - 13 thread. A sheet metal plate was then cut to bridge

the gap between the shafts and tack welded. The assembly was then tack welded on to the 3 x 2 side rails. Bolted back on to the Jeep verified that everything was copacetic. Final welding was performed after removal. The steps were made to be unbolted from the main structure because they will be covered with Line-X for a slip free surface after Powdercoating. Since they were removable it was decided to dress them up a bit by milling the Jeep grille logo into them. After some final grinding they were delivered for powdercoating, then off to get Line-X.

Just as we got this all legal, it was time to put it away for the winter. I had a few things to finish up on my own project, (a 1967 Olds 442) like to finish up the power window conversion and front coil springs. Now that those things were done our attention was focused on the running board steps for the Jeep. Looking what was available thru the after market wasn't going to work since most are fastened to the body. Our fiberglass body I knew would eventually be a problem. The solution was to fasten it directly to the frame. There were 3 frame extensions off the main frame rail on each side that could be utilized. The 2 rear ones were further towards the back than what the step would be, and

only using those would not be very supportive. All 3 had to be tied together. Since the wheel opening flares stuck out past the body it was decided to incorporate them into the running boards for a continuous visual flow. I guess on a performance car it would be called ground effects. Not that this build would benefit from ground effects, but you get the picture. 3" x 2" x 1/8" wall rectangular steel tubing 5' long for each side was purchased from Steel Metal Service Center in Pottsville, Pa. along with some 1/4" x 1-1/2" flat bar. Mocking it up with a pair of jack stands, measurements were taken for the flat bar. These were cut to length and pre drilled then clamped to the frame extensions.

Using the pre drilled holes as a guide the frame extensions were drilled, then bolted in place with 5/16" bolts. The tubing was then butted up against them and tack welded, then removed and finish welded. Reinstalled, then the curvature of the flares were layed out on the tubing ends. These were then cut and end caps were fabricated from sheet metal and welded on, the rear one extending up to meet the flare. Locations for the steps were located by entering and exiting the Jeep and marking where your foot was the most comfortable. Next post we will fab up the steps.