Built Ford Complicated?

Plagued with Explorer rusty side step syndrome, I figured I would just
remove them and have them blasted and refinished, right? Wrong! In
addition to the actual step bar, there are three separate mounts (per side)
each secured by two rusty bolts. On each mount, there is a plastic cap
which cannot be removed unless you unbolt the mount. At each end of the
bar, there is another plastic cap covering a cast metal support, each
secured by another two REALLY RUSTY bolts. Then, of course, you have to
remove the plastic step insert which is not really designed to be removed.

I'm starting to think the old truck doesn't look bad without the bars but my
wife needs a step ladder to get in without them....

It's like $340 to replace the step bars themselves, not taking in account
any additional hardware/bolts. You could order one piece aftermarket
stainless steel step bars instead, although I personally like the factory
look better.

"Stephen Read" > wrote in message
. ..
> Plagued with Explorer rusty side step syndrome, I figured I would just
> remove them and have them blasted and refinished, right? Wrong! In
> addition to the actual step bar, there are three separate mounts (per
> side)
> each secured by two rusty bolts. On each mount, there is a plastic cap
> which cannot be removed unless you unbolt the mount. At each end of the
> bar, there is another plastic cap covering a cast metal support, each
> secured by another two REALLY RUSTY bolts. Then, of course, you have to
> remove the plastic step insert which is not really designed to be removed.
>
> I'm starting to think the old truck doesn't look bad without the bars but
> my
> wife needs a step ladder to get in without them....
>
>

I picked up an '02 XLS used with 8K miles in September. One of the terms
of the sale, since it was stil llunder factory warranty, was to replace
the rusty steps. The dealer called back and made up some crap why they
couldn't do that but could repaint them. I said OK. Another week goes by
and now they want to get new ones again. I did notice an awful lot of rust
under there, thought is was just my truck. Anyway the factory bars do look
good, though the new version of the bars does not come with the attached
plastic moulding at the top. I checked some '04s on the lot, same thing.
Maybe the water dripped on the bars constantly, causing the rust?

Ken