Installing a nerf bar on your 2008 Silverado can be an easy and rewarding project, giving your truck a more aggressive and customized look while also providing protection from road debris and minor impacts. Nerf bars, also known as side steps, offer a convenient step up into your truck’s cab, making it easier to get in and out, especially for taller individuals. Follow this detailed guide to learn how to install a Laverne nerf bar on your 2008 Silverado, ensuring a secure and stylish fit.
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials: a socket wrench set, a torque wrench, a level, a tape measure, and safety glasses. Ensure the nerf bars you have purchased are compatible with your specific Silverado model and year. Place the nerf bars alongside the truck’s frame and mark the mounting holes. Next, use a drill to create pilot holes for the bolts that will secure the nerf bars. Carefully align the nerf bars and insert the bolts through the holes, tightening them securely with a torque wrench to the recommended specifications provided by the manufacturer.
Once the nerf bars are securely mounted, it’s time to adjust their position for optimal functionality. Use a level to ensure the nerf bars are level from side to side. Adjust the mounting bolts as needed until the bars are properly aligned. Finally, tighten the bolts one last time and double-check all connections to ensure the nerf bars are firmly installed and will provide the desired protection and convenience for years to come. Enjoy your upgraded Silverado with its enhanced style and added practicality.
Introduction
Materials You’ll Need:
- Laverne Nerf Bar 08 Silverado
- Wrench set
- Socket set
- Screwdriver
- Drill (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preparation:
- Gather all necessary materials and tools before starting.
- Clean the area where the Nerf bars will be installed to remove any dirt or debris.
- Place the Silverado on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
Detailed Preparation:
- Ensure that the work area is well-lit and ventilated.
- Inspect the Nerf bars carefully for any damage or defects before installation.
- Wear appropriate safety gear, such as work gloves and safety glasses, to protect yourself during the process.
Secure the Brackets:
- Position the Nerf bar brackets on the Silverado’s frame.
- Align the brackets with the pre-drilled holes in the frame.
- Use the bolts and washers provided in the kit to secure the brackets to the frame.
- Tighten the bolts firmly using a wrench.
Attach the Nerf Bars:
- Lift the Nerf bars into place and align them with the brackets.
- Insert the pins through the holes in the brackets and Nerf bars.
- Secure the pins with the provided cotter pins.
Finalize the Installation:
- Check that all bolts and pins are securely fastened.
- Inspect the Nerf bars for proper alignment and adjust as needed.
- Clean up any debris or excess materials from the installation area.
Optional Step: Drilling Holes:
- In some cases, you may need to drill holes in the frame to accommodate the Nerf bar brackets.
- Use a drill with a suitable bit and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drilling the holes accurately.
- Deburr the holes to remove any sharp edges.
- Proceed with the bracket and Nerf bar installation as described above.
Tools Required
Before beginning the installation, ensure you have the following tools at your disposal:
- 10mm socket wrench
- 13mm socket wrench
- 15mm socket wrench
- 18mm socket wrench
- 1/2-inch ratchet
- 1/2-inch torque wrench
- Jack and jack stands
- Safety glasses
- Nitrile gloves
Safety Precautions
For your safety, it is essential to adhere to the following precautions:
- Park the vehicle on a flat, level surface.
- Engage the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from moving.
- Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
- Wear nitrile gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges.
- Never attempt to work on the vehicle without first disconnecting the negative battery terminal.
Materials List
In addition to the tools listed above, you will need the following materials:
| Quantity | Item |
|---|---|
| 1 set | Laverne nerf bars |
| 1 tube | Locktite Threadlocker (optional) |
Safety Precautions
Before starting the installation process, it is crucial to prioritize safety. Failure to adhere to these precautions could lead to injuries or damage to equipment.
Wear Protective Gear
Ensure you have appropriate protective gear such as safety glasses, gloves, and earplugs to protect yourself from flying debris, sharp edges, or loud noises.
Secure the Vehicle
Park the vehicle on a stable and level surface. Engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
Disconnect the Battery
To prevent any electrical accidents, disconnect the negative battery terminal before beginning the installation. This will ensure that no power flows through the vehicle’s electrical system while you are working.
Use the Correct Tools
Utilize the recommended tools for the installation. Avoid using inappropriate or damaged tools as they can increase the risk of injury or poor results.
Follow the Instructions Carefully
Read and understand the installation instructions provided with the nerf bars. Do not deviate from the instructions as improper installation can compromise the safety and functionality of the product.
Step 1: Position the Driver-Side Nerf Bar
The driver-side nerf bar is the first component to be installed. Follow the steps below:
- Inspect the Undercarriage: Locate the existing mounting points beneath the driver’s door along the frame. Ensure they are clean and free of debris.
- Align the Nerf Bar: Position the nerf bar even with the mounting points on the frame. Carefully slide it into place until it fits snugly.
- Secure the Rear Mounting Points: Using the provided bolts, washers, and lock nuts, secure the rear mounting points of the nerf bar to the frame.
- Hand-Tighten the Front Mounting Bolts: Insert the front mounting bolts through the nerf bar and into the corresponding holes on the frame. Hand-tighten the bolts, leaving them loose for now.
4. Adjust and Tighten the Front Mounting Bolts
Using a ratchet and socket, carefully tighten the front mounting bolts. Hold the nerf bar in place while tightening to ensure proper alignment.
Here’s a table summarizing the torque specifications for the front mounting bolts:
| Bolt Size | Torque |
|---|---|
| M10 | 73-110 ft-lbs |
Once the front bolts are tightened, check the overall alignment of the nerf bar. Adjust as necessary before fully tightening all bolts.
Step 2: Install the Driver-Side Mounting Brackets
5. Secure the Mounting Brackets
a. Align the flat edge of the bracket with the notch in the frame and slide it into place. The bracket should fit snugly, with the notch or lip of the bracket resting against the frame.
b. Insert the supplied 3/8-inch bolts (two per bracket) through the mounting holes in the bracket and into the threaded holes in the frame.
c. Thread the supplied 3/8-inch lock nuts onto the bolts and tighten them using a 9/16-inch socket or open-end wrench. Ensure the nuts are sufficiently tightened to prevent the brackets from shifting or loosening.
d. Repeat steps a-c to install the mounting bracket on the opposite side of the frame.
e. Tighten both brackets evenly by alternating the tightening of the nuts on the opposite sides of the frame. This will help distribute the load and ensure a secure installation.
Step 3: Tighten the Driver-Side Nerf Bar
Once the mounting brackets are secured, it’s time to tighten the driver-side nerf bar onto the vehicle. Follow these steps:
6. Secure the Front Bolt
Locate the front bolt on the driver-side nerf bar. Align the bolt with the corresponding hole in the mounting bracket on the frame. Insert the bolt and hand-tighten it. Do not fully tighten it yet.
7. Locate and Secure the Rear Bolt
Move to the rear of the nerf bar and locate the rear bolt. Align the bolt with the hole in the mounting bracket on the frame. Insert the bolt and hand-tighten it. Do not fully tighten it either.
8. Check Alignment and Tighten Bolts
Step back and visually check if the nerf bar is aligned correctly with the frame. Ensure that it is level and parallel to the ground. Once you’re satisfied with the alignment, fully tighten both the front and rear bolts using a wrench or socket set. Double-check the tightness after driving for a short distance to confirm that everything is secure.
| Tightening Torque | Front and Rear Bolts |
|---|---|
| 100 – 120 ft-lbs |
Step 4: Position the Passenger-Side Nerf Bar
Now, let’s tackle the passenger-side Nerf bar:
1. Hold the Bar in Place:
With the help of an assistant, hold the passenger-side Nerf bar in place, approximately in line with the pre-drilled holes on the frame.
2. Level the Bar:
Use a level to ensure the bar is positioned horizontally, parallel to the ground.
3. Slide the Bar Forward:
Carefully slide the bar forward until the front edge aligns with the front frame hole.
4. Check Position Again:
Once again, use the level to verify that the bar is horizontal and correctly positioned.
5. Mark the Holes:
With the bar firmly in place, use a marking tool (e.g., a punch or a marker) to note the locations of the holes on the frame.
6. Remove the Bar:
Temporarily remove the Nerf bar to make it easier to drill the holes.
7. Drill the Holes:
Use a drill bit that matches the diameter of the bolts provided with the Nerf bar kit to drill holes at the marked locations. For reference, here are the typical hole sizes for different Silverado models:
| Silverado Model | Hole Size |
|---|---|
| 2007-2013 | 1/2″ |
| 2014-2018 | 5/8″ |
| 2019-Later | 3/4″ |
Step 5: Install the Passenger-Side Mounting Brackets
Now, let’s focus on the other side of the truck to install the passenger-side mounting brackets.
a) Position and Align the Brackets
Grab the remaining pair of brackets and position them on the passenger-side frame corresponding to the holes you drilled earlier. Ensure proper alignment to avoid any drilling mishaps.
b) Mark the Bracket Locations
Once the brackets are in place, use a marker to make a mark through the bracket holes onto the frame. These marks will guide the drilling process.
c) Remove the Brackets
Remove the passenger-side mounting brackets from the frame to prepare for drilling the holes.
d) Drill Pilot Holes
Using a 1/8-inch drill bit, proceed to drill pilot holes at the marked locations on the frame. These pilot holes will serve as guides for the larger bolts.
e) Reposition and Secure the Brackets
Align the passenger-side mounting brackets back on the frame, ensuring they fit snugly over the pilot holes. Secure them temporarily with a few bolts to prevent any movement.
f) Tighten the Bolts
Tighten the bolts using a torque wrench to ensure a secure fit. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate torque specifications.
g) Repeat for the Front and Rear Mounting Points
Follow the same procedure to install the front and rear mounting brackets on the passenger side of the truck.
h) Check for Tightness
Once all the passenger-side brackets are installed, give them a thorough inspection to ensure they are firmly attached to the frame.
Step 6: Tighten the Passenger-Side Nerf Bar
Begin tightening the rear bracket bolts using the socket wrench, then repeat for the front bracket bolts. Tighten the bolts until they are snug but not overly tight.
Step 6.1: Check and Retighten Bolts
Using the torque wrench, double-check the tightness of all bolts and adjust them according to the manufacturer’s specifications. This ensures a secure and reliable connection between the nerf bar and your Silverado.
Step 6.2: Tighten Step Pads
Tighten the step pads located on the nerf bar using the Allen key. Make sure the step pads are firmly attached to the bar for optimal stability and grip when entering or exiting your truck.
Step 6.3: Protective Coating
Apply a thin layer of clear protective coating or rust-resistant spray paint to the bolts and brackets to prevent corrosion and extend the life of your nerf bar investment.
Step 6.4: Final Inspection
Once the passenger-side nerf bar is securely installed, stand back and inspect your work. Ensure that the bar is level and parallel to the ground, and that all bolts and brackets are adequately tightened.
Final Inspection and Tips
Check for Loose Bolts and Nuts
Once the nerf bars are installed, ensure all bolts and nuts are securely tightened. Use a wrench to double-check that everything is in place and prevent any rattling or movement while driving.
Verify Alignment
Step back from the vehicle and inspect the nerf bars from different angles. Make sure they are evenly aligned and parallel to the body of the truck. Any misalignment can impede their functionality and stability.
Test Functionality
Step on the nerf bars and test their sturdiness. They should provide a solid grip and support your weight without any wobbling or bending. This ensures the bars can safely assist in entering and exiting the vehicle, especially for individuals with limited mobility.
Check for Gaps
Inspect any gaps between the nerf bars and the vehicle’s body. These should be minimal to prevent debris or water from accumulating, which can lead to corrosion over time.
Avoid Overloading
Never overload the nerf bars by standing, jumping, or placing heavy objects on them. They are designed to support the weight of people entering or exiting the vehicle, not for excessive loads.
Regular Cleaning
To maintain the appearance and durability of your nerf bars, clean them regularly using a mild soap solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the finish.
Professional Installation
If you are unsure about any aspect of the installation process, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a professional mechanic. They can ensure proper alignment, tightening, and safety measures.
Warranty and Service
Refer to the manufacturer’s warranty for specific coverage and limitations regarding the nerf bars. If you encounter any issues or concerns, contact the manufacturer promptly for assistance or replacement.
How to Install Laverne Nerf Bar 08 Silverado
Installing Laverne nerf bars on your 08 Silverado is a straightforward and rewarding project that can enhance both the functionality and appearance of your truck. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
- Gather your tools and materials: You’ll need a socket wrench, drill, 1/2-inch drill bit, and self-tapping screws.
- Locate the mounting points: Identify the two mounting points on each side of the truck’s frame, located behind the front and rear wheels.
- Drill pilot holes: Using the 1/2-inch drill bit, create two pilot holes at each mounting point.
- Attach the brackets: Align the brackets with the pilot holes and secure them using the self-tapping screws.
- Install the nerf bars: Slide the nerf bars over the brackets and secure them with the included bolts.
- Tighten all bolts: Use the socket wrench to tighten all bolts to ensure a secure fit.
People Also Ask
How much does it cost to install Laverne nerf bars?
The cost of installation varies depending on the location and labor rates of the installer. However, you can expect to pay around $100-$200 for professional installation.
Are Laverne nerf bars easy to install?
Yes, Laverne nerf bars are designed for easy installation. With basic tools and the provided instructions, you can complete the installation in about 1-2 hours.
Do Laverne nerf bars improve ground clearance?
No, Laverne nerf bars do not significantly affect ground clearance. They are designed to provide side protection and step access, not to increase off-road capabilities.
