When assessing the accessibility or step-in height of a vehicle that is already equipped with running boards or step bars, the measurement method is straightforward and specific.
Understanding Step-In Height with Running Boards
The phrase "measuring for running board" can sometimes refer to determining the step-in height of a vehicle that already has these accessories installed. This measurement helps understand how high a person needs to step to enter the vehicle.
According to standard measurement practices:
- If a vehicle has running boards or step bars, the measurement is from the top of the step bar or running board to the ground.
This contrasts with measuring step-in height on vehicles without running boards:
- Otherwise, step-in height is measured from the ground to the door sill.
Essentially, running boards lower the effective step height required to enter the vehicle, and the measurement reflects this reduced distance from the elevated step surface down to the ground.
Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Step-In Height with Running Boards
Measuring the step-in height when running boards are present is a simple process:
- Locate the Running Board: Find the running board or step bar on the side of the vehicle.
- Identify the Top Surface: Determine the highest point or stepping surface of the running board.
- Measure Vertically: Using a tape measure, extend it vertically downward from the top surface of the running board straight to the ground.
- Record the Measurement: Note the distance measured in inches or centimeters.
This measurement represents the actual height a person's foot needs to clear to step onto the running board from the ground.
Why is This Measurement Important?
Understanding this measurement is crucial for:
- Accessibility: It helps individuals, especially those with mobility challenges, assess how easy it is to enter and exit the vehicle.
- Comparison: It allows for comparing the effective step height of different vehicles or different running board designs.
- Vehicle Specifications: This measurement is often included in vehicle or accessory specifications.
Example Measurement
| Vehicle Feature | Measurement From | Measurement To | Result (Example) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Has Running Board | Top of running board | Ground | 10 inches |
| No Running Board | Ground | Door sill | 18 inches |
As seen in the example, the running board effectively reduces the step-in height compared to stepping directly onto the door sill.
While "measuring for running board" could potentially imply measuring your vehicle to fit a running board (which involves different steps like measuring the wheelbase, cab length, and frame mounting points), the provided reference specifically details how to measure step-in height when running boards are already installed. Therefore, based on the reference, this is the primary measurement associated with having running boards on a vehicle.
