Aries 2051101 - User Manual

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Summary

Parts and Tools Required

Parts List

Lists all components needed for running board installation, including boards, brackets, bolts, washers, and nuts.

Tools Required

Specifies the necessary tools for installation, such as a ratchet, 13mm socket, and extension.

Installation Steps

Step 1: Locate Mounting Points

Identify mounting locations and the front bracket on the driver's side of the vehicle.

Step 2: Install Front Bracket

Attach the front bracket to the vehicle using specified bolts, lock washers, and flat washers.

Step 3: Install Middle and Rear Brackets

Repeat the bracket installation process for the middle and rear mounting holes.

Step 4: Mount Running Board

Place the running board onto the brackets and align bolts with bracket slots.

Step 5: Secure Running Board

Attach the running board to brackets using washers and nuts, snugging hardware without full tightening.

Step 6: Adjust and Tighten

Center the running board and tighten all bracket and running board connections.

Step 7: Repeat for Passenger Side

Complete installation by repeating all steps for the passenger side of the vehicle.

Maintenance and Care

Notes and Maintenance

Provides guidance on thorough reading of instructions, tool usage, and cleaning methods for stainless steel and black finishes.

This document outlines the installation and maintenance procedures for the ARIES AeroTread™ running boards, identified by part number 2051101. These running boards are designed to be installed on both the driver and passenger sides of a vehicle, providing a convenient step for easier entry and exit. The installation process is rated as "Easy," suggesting it can be completed by individuals with basic mechanical skills.

Function Description:

The ARIES AeroTread™ running boards serve as an accessory that attaches to the side of a vehicle, offering a stable and wide step surface. This enhances accessibility for passengers and drivers, particularly in taller vehicles, by reducing the step-up height. The design likely incorporates a tread pattern (implied by "AeroTread™") to provide improved grip and safety, especially in various weather conditions. The product image shows a sleek, low-profile design that integrates well with the vehicle's aesthetics, suggesting it's not just functional but also adds to the vehicle's appearance. The inclusion of front, middle, and rear mounting brackets ensures a secure and robust attachment to the vehicle's frame, capable of supporting user weight.

Important Technical Specifications:

The parts list provides a clear breakdown of the components included for installation:

Running Boards: One for the driver/left side and one for the passenger/right side.
Mounting Brackets: Two front, two middle, and two rear brackets are provided, totaling six brackets for a complete installation (three per side). These are crucial for distributing weight and securing the running boards to the vehicle's undercarriage.
Fasteners:
- 24 Hex head bolts, 8mm
- 24 Flat washers, 8mm
- 24 Lock washers, 8mm
- 12 Hex nuts, 8mm These fasteners are all 8mm in size, indicating a standardized approach to assembly. The combination of hex head bolts, flat washers, lock washers, and hex nuts is standard for ensuring a secure and vibration-resistant connection in automotive applications. The quantity of fasteners suggests that each running board attachment point will utilize a bolt, flat washer, and lock washer, with nuts used where through-bolting is required. Specifically, the instructions mention using six 8mm lock washers, six 8mm flat washers, and six 8mm nuts to attach each running board to its brackets, implying that each running board has three attachment points to the brackets, and each point uses one set of these fasteners. The remaining bolts, flat washers, and lock washers are used to attach the brackets to the vehicle's frame.

Tools Required:

The installation requires minimal specialized tools:

Ratchet
Socket, 13mm
Extension The 13mm socket is specifically for the 8mm fasteners, which is a common wrench size for 8mm bolts and nuts. The extension would be useful for reaching fasteners in tight or recessed areas under the vehicle.

Usage Features:

The installation process is broken down into seven clear steps, designed for a straightforward assembly:

Locate Mounting Points: The first step involves identifying the three mounting locations on the driver's side of the vehicle, which are pre-existing points on the vehicle's frame.
Install Front Bracket: The front bracket is secured to the vehicle using two 8mm hex bolts, lock washers, and flat washers. This establishes the first anchor point.
Install Middle and Rear Brackets: Steps 2 is repeated for the middle and rear brackets, ensuring all three brackets are firmly attached to the vehicle's frame on the driver's side.
Prepare Running Board: Before placing the running board, the flat washers, lock washers, and hex nuts are removed from the running board, indicating that these fasteners are pre-installed on the running board's attachment points. The running board is then carefully positioned onto the installed brackets, and each hex bolt is slid into the appropriate slot on the mounting bracket.
Attach Running Board to Brackets: The running board is then attached to the brackets using six 8mm lock washers, six 8mm flat washers, and six 8mm nuts. At this stage, the hardware is snugged but not fully tightened, allowing for adjustment.
Adjust and Tighten: The running board is adjusted to be centered between the front and rear wheel wells. Once properly positioned, all brackets are first tightened to the vehicle, followed by tightening the running board connections to the brackets. This sequence ensures the running board is properly aligned and securely fastened.
Repeat for Passenger Side: The entire process (steps 1 through 6) is repeated for the passenger side of the vehicle, ensuring symmetrical installation.

The instructions emphasize the importance of reading all instructions thoroughly before beginning and using proper tools to improve installation quality and reduce time.

Maintenance Features:

The "Notes and Maintenance" section provides crucial information for long-term care:

Periodic Inspections: After installation, periodic inspections are recommended to ensure all mounting hardware remains tight. This is vital for safety and to prevent the running boards from becoming loose or detaching over time due to vibrations or impacts.
Cleaning Stainless Steel Finishes: For running boards with a stainless steel finish, polish can be used to clear small scratches and scuffs, helping to maintain the aesthetic appeal. Mild soap can also be used for general cleaning.
Cleaning Black Finishes: For running boards with a black finish, mild soap is recommended for cleaning. This suggests that abrasive cleaners or polishes might not be suitable for black finishes, as they could damage the coating.

Overall, the ARIES AeroTread™ running boards are presented as an easy-to-install, functional, and aesthetically pleasing vehicle accessory designed to enhance accessibility and convenience, with clear guidelines for proper installation and ongoing maintenance.