I would go for the Amp Research or the Bestop over the built in step. The nice thing about them is you can use them with the tailgate up or down, trailer or no trailer attached.

 

Whats nice about step is that is usable with tailgate up or down! Like Jfkmk said.

 

Has anyone priced a tailgate with step from a salvage yard?

 

$1200 is what I have found for XLT.

 

I’m just starting my research into these after market steps. Is there a clear winner between amp research va bestop? Any reason to go with one over the other?

 

I don’t know if there is a clear winner, they’re probably both equally as good. The Amp Research is about $40 more. When I bought mine, it was on sale and there was a rebate, bringing it down to $175. Sounds like a bargain compared to $240, but still a little pricy for a step!

One thing I noticed from post #7 is when the Bestop is in the up position, it hangs a bit lower than the Amp Research. Mine is almost completely flat across the bottom. Also, when the step is down, the Bestop appears to be angled a bit, where the Amp Research is flatter.

Either would certainly work!

 

I've had a Bestop Trekstep for 9 months. Wouldn't be without it now. I bought mine during a black Friday sale so I got a good discount as well. Jfkmk points out things that may distract, I'll point out something that I feel is a plus., that's adjustability. Take a look at the install instructions of both before deciding. +1 for Trekstep

 

Not being a smart azz, but I use this and it only cost $4. I use my tuck as a camper and have found this to work perfectly and who doesn't need a bucket on occasion?

 

Have you ever had one of these kick out on you while coming down onto it? At 64 YO, I don't want to try anymore, I'm not that resilient. The pain really hurts now.

 

An inverted plastic bucket on a patch of broken ice and snow is a recipe for disaster. The truck anchored steps are great because they aren't going anywhere, even if it's windy