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Short girl +lifted Jeep =problem

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34K views 83 replies 60 participants last post by  kjay58  
#1 ·
Can anyone recommend side steps that would help me get in my lifted Jeep? I was hoping to find something that could be lower than a normal nerf bar. I've already got something installed, similar to what comes standard on a Sahara, but now that I have the AEV 3.5 lift with 35s, I'm having trouble getting in. My Jeep is my daily driver and I have to dress up for a new job. Heels and the height are making for entertainment in the parking lot.
 
#3 ·
While I don't have any, I think most around here will suggest starting with, or at least trying, a nice set of grab handles to help lift yourself up. It doesn't seem like there is any loss in trying, because they'd still be good teamed up with some sort of side step if you have to add.

My Jeep isn't lifted, but after paying attention, I do find myself pulling myself in from the steering wheel.
 
#5 ·
Fungun makes a good point: grab handles are really nice to help get into a lifted Jeep (either the ones that connect at the top of the A-pillar or the ones that velcro around the roll cage). But beyond that, I guess which side steps you got may depend on what you do with your Jeep. There are some side steps that sit fairly low or are just an isolated step (instead of having a whole rail), but some people don't like those because they are much easier to get stuck on something if you're riding through trails all the time (something like this Carr Wrangler 20 Inch black steps 121241 (07-16 Wrangler JK) - Free Shipping , although that specific type requires drilling, just sharing that to show what I am trying to explain). If you don't anticipate going offroad much, maybe that sort of thing is an option. There are also types like this: N-FAB J0764 - N-Fab Nerf-Steps for 07-16 Jeep® Wrangler Unlimited JK 4 Door - Quadratec that have both the rail for the whole Jeep (much easier install) as well as a lowered step.

If you do want to go offroad more often, then a nice pair of rock rails will help with the step up (in conjunction with a grab handle) as well as act as much better armor for your vehicle than the stock Sahara ones. I hear a ton of good feedback about Ace sliders (they also have a lifetime warranty).

Hopefully that helps a little bit. Good luck!
 
#60 ·

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#7 ·
I'd also recommend if you do decide to get a pair of side steps/rails, see if they are available through one of the vendors here on the forum. Almost guaranteed you'll get a discount or free shipping for being a forum member!

And I would also recommend that if you can wait past whatever job you're going for, there might be better deals coming on Black Friday. Just saying :D
 
#10 ·
My wife and daughters are relatively short too but they do ok with the ACE sliders and the Surprise paracord straps. Maybe a combination with Grabbars would help a little.
I am impressed with the 3.5 lift. Add bumpers a winch and a bunch of armor to bring it back down closer to earth. Good Luck.
Heels in a Jeep,no question in a Sahara! :)
 
owns 2013 Jeep Wrangler J/K
#55 ·
I am not quite 5'0" tall with a lifted jeep. I have the ace sliders and paracord grab handles and it works just fine for me. And yes....I get in and out of my jeep in skirts and heels. Takes a bit of practice at first but now I basically can jump in and out without any problem whatsoever. The ace sliders serve so many purposes and I love them.
 
#14 ·
Thanks for the responses y'all. I've got the grab bars (and a Warn bumper with Powerplant winch on the front, AEV bumper with tire carrier on the back). The grab bars are great, just like everyone said. I don't have a problem when I'm in jeans, it's these blasted dress clothes. I thought that if the side steps came down a little lower, I wouldn't have to jump as high when I'm wearing a skirt. Trust me, I'd quit the job before I'd give up the Jeep. But I was hoping that replacing the side steps would be an easy fix. Thanks for sharing some options - very encouraging.
 
#17 ·
I feels ya. I have a 3.5" lift on 35s and it can be challenging. I went the opposite route- I needed rock sliders and wanted clearance. My Pure Jeep sliders sit right under my door- so they're even higher than most. Sometimes I have to power lunge to get in LOL.
But they're also flat- which makes them much easier than an angled step/tube. Keep that in mind as you look- some manufacturers will customize the angle at which the tube sits against the body. A steep-angled tube will make it harder to get in; not easier.

View attachment 2577129

Poser shot but you can see the sliders.
 
#18 ·
I installed rock slide engineering step slider for just that reason. It's a solid rock slider and when you open a door its motors down a very nice step. Not cheep but looks and works great. Wife is 5'4 and now has no problem getting in jeep with 35" and 3.5 lift. Daughter and grand daughters also love them.
 
#20 ·
Curbs would be great. But I make several sales calls each day. So commandeering a designated parking spot or changing at work won't help. A co-worker suggested a step ladder - which would help getting in, but there's no one to help set it up when I get out. Every little suggestion is good, and will help. But I'd love something convenient. I don't rock crawl, so I'd think a lowered side step would be ok, but I do have to watch my clearance. I have to go off road to get to my house, and bad weather can wash out the road.
 
#37 ·
Here... these particular step stools fold flat as a pancake. Still may be awkward to get in and out, but once in, easy to pick up, fold and throw on the seat.

They work excellent if you need to get an elderly passenger in and out safely.

They make 9" 12" and 15" models.. The 9" works good for my mom.

B & R Plastics 1016BK E-Z Foldz Black Step Stool https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003L8WUBU/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_GAblwbM27V29G

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#22 ·
My Brother in law installed a stirrup from a horse saddle for my sis who is 4'11 just flips it inside when done using. it has a 3 inch wide flat hook (angle) that hooks to the inner rocker lip...works great combined with Grab bars :)
Cameron
 
#61 ·
I've installed these on pick ups before and they are pretty slick. They automatically drop when you open the door and retract when you close the door. Nice because the don't interfere with ground clearance when not in use but give a great step up. Kinda spendy tho.. $1,199.00 for the JK
POWERSTEP Automatic Retracting Running Board
The Amp Research steps do work great. I ordered a set today for $983.96 delivered, plus there is a $100 rebate you send off for. Pretty good price.