Adding Power Running Boards to Non-Factory Equipped Model

[baggedlvintegra]

I won't be able to make them down all the time (without the door just staying open) but I will have a disable switch in the cab that will make them stay up if need be. Honestly I can't think of a situation where I would need to leave them down and is the least of my concerns

 

[THE YETI]

How are you going to add the button that makes them down all the time or up all the time near where the foot pedal adjusters are?

The OEM power steps cannot stay down all the time. You can only make them stay up all the time.

 

[Regency]

Ahhh

 

[baggedlvintegra]

So after extensive research, getting discussion going on the12 volt (super informative), reading over AMP and Bestop install instructions, etc. I have determined that for sure without a doubt these can be installed to work just like factory functionality, it's just a matter of two options:

1) "Design" a Controller module using timed relays and PAC TR-7 modules, plotting a wiring scheme, soldering diodes, running all the wires and testing it. Should work but not 100% confirmed without doing it all. Estimated cost $110 for all parts, LABOR intensive

2) Buy the AMP Power Step Control Module and Wiring Harness - Estimated cost $200, cleaner install NO design work, also the harness includes the LED lighting over the board so that is a + I guess

So the catch, the only issue with #2 is after talking to AMP Tech Support their module is programmed to run the motor for 5 seconds (the time it takes to extend / retract the AMP steps) but from my calculations it only takes 2-3 seconds tops for the OEM steps to reach full extend / full retract. Meaning the motors would run for 2 full seconds after the arms were maxed out. I'm concerned this 2 seconds of continually power to the motors will wear the motors out much sooner than they should.

Thoughts? Is my thinking on the 2 seconds unrealistic, and I shouldn't worry about it?

 

[THE YETI]

I can tell you that ours went up and down faster than 5 seconds. That seems long.

Very good info tho!!

 

[baggedlvintegra]

so after comparing these two videos on youtube, there is no way the AMP steps are 5 seconds, they appear faster than OEM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tAHPMU0naig

this video at 1:17
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PM7MvTKtRkg

 

[yates ™]

I can tell you that ours went up and down faster than 5 seconds. That seems long.

Very good info tho!!

Amps have a longer travel.

 

[baggedlvintegra]

actual steps on a tahoe (same as Escalade kit) and they are definitely not 5 seconds either
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ViuMq5Qw3xU

 

[Modded]

I thought the GM boards are made by AMP Research?

 

[CarToons]

What about using a power window module from an alarm add on? They sense the current when a window closes all the way and shut off. Otherwise work just like reversing polarity relays. I'm pretty sure you can buy them for about $50 and should protect the steps more than some sort of a timer.