How to Install 2021-2023 RAM 1500 Running Board TRX Style Passenger Side - Vicrez vz101985 — Complete Guide

Q: What You’ll Need

What You’ll Need — Read the full answer in our guide at IronBedTruck.com. How to Install 2021-2023 RAM 1500 Running Board TRX Style Passenger Side - Vicrez vz101985 — Complete Guide Upgrading your RAM 1500 with the Vicrez TRX‑sty

Upgrading your RAM 1500 with the Vicrez TRX‑style running board adds a rugged, off‑road look while giving passengers a convenient step up. The good news? This kit is a true bolt‑on—no drilling, no permanent modifications, and it’s engineered to OEM tolerances. Follow this step‑by‑step guide and you’ll have the board securely mounted in under an hour.

What You’ll Need

Vicrez Running Board Kit (vz101985) – includes all mounting brackets, hardware, and protective caps.
Vehicle’s owner manual – for reference on wheel well clearances and bolt torque specs.
Clean rag – to wipe away dust and debris from the mounting area.
Pen or marker – to label bolts if you need to remove them later.

Tools Required

| Tool | Reason | |------|--------| | Ratchet with 13 mm socket | Primary fastener removal and tightening | | Torque wrench (20–25 lb‑ft) | Ensures bolts are torqued to factory specs | | Flat‑head screwdriver | Helps pry off any protective covers | | Flashlight or work light | Improves visibility in the wheel well | | Safety gloves & glasses | Protects hands and eyes from sharp edges |

Step‑By‑Step Installation

1. Prepare the Vehicle

Park the truck on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and disconnect the negative battery terminal. This prevents any accidental short‑circuits while you work near the electrical wiring in the wheel well.

2. Remove the Factory Trim Piece

Locate the small plastic trim covering the bolt holes on the passenger side rocker panel. Use a flat‑head screwdriver to gently pry it off, then set it aside. This exposes the pre‑drilled OEM mounting points.

3. Align the Bracket Assembly

Take the Vicrez bracket and line it up with the exposed bolt holes. The bracket’s “U” shape should sit flush against the rocker panel, and the mounting tabs should face outward toward the wheel well.

4. Insert and Hand‑Thread the Bolts

Slide each supplied 13 mm bolt through the bracket and into the OEM threaded holes. Hand‑tighten them until they’re snug; this prevents cross‑threading before you apply torque.

5. Torque the Fasteners

Using the torque wrench, tighten each bolt to 22 lb‑ft (the recommended spec for RAM 1500). Tighten in a criss‑cross pattern to evenly distribute pressure across the bracket.

6. Attach the Running Board to the Bracket

Lift the running board into position and align the pre‑drilled holes on the board with the bracket’s mounting tabs. Insert the remaining bolts, hand‑tighten, then torque to 20 lb‑ft. Verify that the board sits level and there’s a uniform gap to the ground.

7. Reinstall the Trim Piece (Optional)

If you removed a protective cover, snap it back into place over the bolts. This step is cosmetic but helps keep dirt out of the threads.

8. Final Inspection

Step onto the board to confirm stability, then double‑check all bolts for proper torque. Reconnect the battery, start the engine, and give the board a quick shake—there should be no movement or rattling.

Pro Tips

Warm‑up the bolts: If you’re installing in cold weather, briefly run the engine to warm the metal. Warm bolts thread more smoothly and achieve accurate torque.
Use thread‑locker: A medium‑strength thread‑locker on the bolts adds extra security against vibration without making future removal a nightmare.
Check clearance: Before final tightening, roll the wheel forward a few inches to ensure the board doesn’t interfere with the tire’s travel.
Document bolt locations: Take a quick photo of each bolt’s position before removal. This saves time if you ever need to reinstall the factory trim.

Common Mistakes

| Mistake | Why It Happens | How to Avoid | |---------|----------------|--------------| | Over‑tightening bolts | Assuming “tighter = safer.” | Always use a torque wrench and follow the specified values. | | Skipping the trim removal | Wanting to save time. | The trim protects the threads; leaving it on can cause cross‑threading or damage. | | Installing on a dirty surface | Rushing the prep work. | Clean the rocker panel with a rag and mild cleaner to ensure a flush fit. | | Neglecting the battery disconnect | Forgetting safety protocols. | Make it a habit to disconnect the negative terminal before any work near wiring. |

FAQ

Q1: Do I need to drill any holes for this Vicrez running board?
A: No. The kit is engineered for a bolt‑on fit using the RAM 1500’s existing OEM mounting points. No drilling, welding, or permanent modifications are required.

Q2: Can I install the passenger‑side board myself, or do I need a professional?
A: The installation is designed for DIY enthusiasts with basic hand tools. As long as you follow the torque specifications and safety steps, you can confidently install it yourself. If you’re uncomfortable working under the vehicle, a professional can complete the job in under 30 minutes.

How to Install 2021-2023 RAM 1500 Running Board TRX Style Passenger Side - — Step by Step Guide