Chris Hansen
Anyone who has a lift Jeep and is vertically challenged knows of the difficulty of getting in and out of your build. That is extended when you have small kids and other family members trying to ride along. There are many solves to this problem that again hinges on how you want your Jeep to look and the function you expect.
When we first entertained purchasing side steps for our Jeep Wrangler JL we explored over a dozen options including the AMP Research Power Step XL, RockSlide Engineering RockSliders and various standard stationary steps, some full length, while others just provided steps at the door. Some were open air, others were solid and easy to use. Had to take door swing (or lack of) and how my family could count on these steps.
Why AMP Research Power Step XL?
Finally, after visiting vendors at Jeep Beach 2019, Jeep Feast by 4WheelParts, and various online sites we settled on installing the AMP Research Power Step XL . A few of the reasons we decided to go with these steps are the quality that AMP Research has perfected over the years. Additionally, the integrated step within the custom rocker rail provides a seamless look that is snugged up close to the body of the Jeep. This is unlike many other side steps that are inches away from the body. Lastly, the ability to have an automatic electric-powered running board that tucks away after the door is closed adds to the unique and clean look we were going for on our build.
As we didn’t do the install on this product this time around, we have experience with the AMP Research Power Step and overall it takes a good afternoon of time and ideally a second pair of hands to really make the install smooth.
Overall, I was in the market to solve the following problems, 1) having a lifted Jeep but still being able to enjoy using it with my family, 2) creating an integrated body look with my side steps, and 3) increasing the clearance while on the trail. The AMP Research PowerStep XL does all those things and more. As these aren’t cheap ($1,899) and the install was an additional $250, the look is exactly what I wanted, the family can join me by easily getting in and out of the Jeep (it has a 4″ lift on 35’s) and finally extra few inches of clearance provide a piece of mind on the trail.
You can find these at many of the larger off-road retailers out there like 4WheelParts.com and of course AMP Research.com
