Let’s face it, accessing the toolbox or auxiliary fuel tank, disconnecting the fifth-wheel hitch, or simply reaching for items in the bed of a lifted truck is difficult if not impossible—unless you happen to be vertically blessed. At 6 foot 2 inches, I too struggle to get items out of the toolbox. Until now, there were few options to gain access for those hard-to-reach items: store a small step ladder in the bed of the truck or climb up onto the rear tire. The first option guaranteed laughs and jeers from friends, and the second offered a great opportunity to slip, leading to more ridicule. AMP Research came to the rescue with its BedStep2, a side-mounting truck step specifically designed to allow for easy access to the toolbox and other items in the front of the bed of the truck. Its ambidextrous attachment hardware allows the step to be installed on either side of the truck, just behind the cab.
01. Each BedStep2 confguration will vary depending on the application. AMP Research provides easy-to-follow, illustrated instructions and all hardware, including the installation nut and bolt for the rivet nut.
03. At this point in the...
03. At this point in the assembly, the frame mount is torqued to the lateral mount. The unique geometrical shape of the parts enables the same kit to be installed on either side of the truck.
04. The die-cast aluminum...
04. The die-cast aluminum alloy makes the BedStep2 a lightweight and sturdy accessory. When in the collapsed position (as shown above), the composite step tucks nicely under the bed.
05. The BedStep2 attaches...
05. The BedStep2 attaches to the bed frame via an existing access hole and the included mounting plate.
06. Use a pair of locking...
06. Use a pair of locking pliers to temporarily hold the mounting plate in place on the bed frame channel while attaching the BedStep2 frame mount.
07. Installation of the...
07. Installation of the BedStep2 requires the use of a rivet nut. The kit includes the required installation bolt and nut to properly expand the rivet nut to the frame.
08. To prevent horizontal...
08. To prevent horizontal movement of the step, the frame is drilled and the supplied rivet nut is used to secure the step to the frame.
09. A properly installed...
09. A properly installed rivet nut will expand in width to allow the shell to collapse and tighten between the frame and the outer fange of the rivet nut. At this point in the installation, the steel bracket is secured to the truck frame with the rivet nut.
10. After the steel bracket...
10. After the steel bracket is attached to the frame, it is time to adjust the step into final position and tighten all the hardware.
11. The aggressive yet stylish...
11. The aggressive yet stylish high-traction step pad is made from composite material to withstand the harsh elements and support up to 300 pounds. Because the step is intended to be deployed with the foot, we would suggest installing a clear thermoplastic urethane paint protectant flm just above the step to protect the bed from boot scratches.
12. At 6 foot 2 inches, even...
12. At 6 foot 2 inches, even I have trouble reaching for items in the bottom of the toolbox. As a result, I used to resort to straddling the rear tire and the power steps, or climbing into the bed just to retrieve an item.
13. With hands-free activation,...
13. With hands-free activation, a simple downward push with the foot will deploy the BedStep2. Now the toolbox is waist level and retrieving items is no longer diffcult.
14. Need a step to enter...
14. Need a step to enter your truck? AMP Research has it covered with the retractable PowerStep with optional LED light kit, the original BedStep mounted at the rear bumper for easy access to the bed of the truck, and the new BedStep2.
02. A testament to the quality...
02. A testament to the quality of the product and the forethought of the mechanical engineers, the lateral mount includes reliefs and access holes for ease of assembly.
The creative, hands-free operation of the retractable BedStep2 is ingenious. Minimal downward pressure on the step will get it to deploy, and when you’re finished, you simply kick it up and it stows out of the way—brilliant. The frame components of the step are die-cast aluminum alloy construction with precision stainless steel pivot pins and self-lubrication bushings. The composite step pad is designed to provide high traction and withstand the elements automotive products endure. The step will safely support up to 300 pounds. Should a part fail, the step is covered by a three-year 36,000-mile warranty. Best of all, the BedStep2 is made in the United States.
AMP Research has designed another sleek, stylish, functional, durable, and utilitarian accessory for the truck market, proving once again it is a step above the competition.