How To Install Jeep Performance Rock Rails With Step | (Gladiator/Wrangler)
Updated: Aug 28
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TL;DR / Quick Summary
Protection & Utility: Safeguard your Jeep’s rocker panels and pinch welds while gaining a functional 4-inch step for easier cab access.
True Bolt-On Fit: Factory Mopar hardware and radius design align directly with existing body holes—no drilling or fabrication required.
Quick Driveway Mod: Installs in about an hour using only basic hand tools (10mm and 13mm sockets with a ratchet and torque wrench).
Trail-Tested Results: Delivers solid footing on uneven terrain and holds up to real off-road abuse, especially when paired with a suspension lift.
What You Will Learn In This Post
Factory Jeep rock rails provide excellent pinch-weld protection, but adding a suspension lift can make getting in and out of the cab a challenge. In this guide, you will see how upgrading to Mopar Performance Rock Rails with an integrated step delivers the heavy-duty rocker defense you need on the trail alongside the daily stepping utility needed for family-friendly accessibility.
We will break down the complete step-by-step installation process, covering everything from safely removing your OEM factory sliders to torquing down the new hardware. With only a basic socket set and about an hour of garage time, you will learn the exact sequence and practical tips required to complete this job solo with zero guesswork.
Finally, you will get real-world feedback from long-term trail use. We cover fitment precision, strength-to-weight advantages, and how these functional rails perform on off-camber obstacles and uneven terrain—proving they are a must-have upgrade for both daily drivers and dedicated overland rigs.
Off-Road Jeepers Will Dig the Utility; Mall Crawlers Will Enjoy the Style
Rock Sliders, also known as Rock Rails, are essential for safeguarding the delicate rocker panels and pinch welds on your off-road vehicle. Rails that include a built-in step provide added functionality. These Mopar Rails fit seamlessly, and the compact step is highly effective, particularly when the Jeep is positioned at unusual an
OEM Rails Came Stock OEM Rails Came Stock
Jeep Installs Factory Rock Rails On The Rubicon And Willys
Functional Rock Rails are included with at least the Rubicon and Willys Jeep models and possibly others. These are Mopar Rock rails that will do a great job of protecting rocker panels and the pinch weld that hold the body together.
Related Content
Rock Rails W/Step Installed Rock Rails W/Step Installed
These Are Aftermarket Mopar Performance Rock Rails With A Step
We eventually want to install a 2" Mopar Lift Kit on our Gladiator. This is my wife's vehicle. I need to make sure she can still easily get in and out when we do lift it. That is my main reason for installing these Jeep Rock Rails with a step. There is about a 4" flat spot to place a foot on these rails. Mopar Aftermarket parts can be trusted to fit well and be quality products.
I chose these Mopar Rails but there are many different types available on Amazon:
Easy Install In - Just A Few Steps, About 1 Hour, Some Simple Hand Tools Its Done
Hardest part about this project was moving the heavy box. The actual install is a piece of cake (See time lapse video above.) The easiest on this Jeep next to replacing the crazy Jeep antenna with a stubby. Here is a list of tools and procedures and link to Install PDF:
For tools all you need is a ratchet wrench, 10mm and 13mm sockets and a torque wrench.
Hardware (provided) 8 - 10mm Nuts and 4 - 13mm Screws.
Step 1 - remove the OEM Rails (if equipped.)
Step 2 - Choose the proper rail, left or right
Step 3 - Gather provided hardware.
Step 4 - Place the bolts on rail through holes in pinch weld and get at least bolt (stops the rail from falling.)
Step 5 - Install remaining bolts and torque to specs
Step 6 - Repeat for remaining side.
Done! Enjoy your new Jeep Performance Rock Rails With A Step!
We Won't Know How Well The Steps Will Work Until We Install Lift Kit On Our Gladiator (Update: We Now Know How)
We won't be able to gauge how helpful the side steps will be. Our Gladiator Rubicon is not yet lifted. As soon as we have the lift installed and are able to use them to get in and out I will update this post.
What I Do Know About These Rails So Far
They look great on the Gladiator
High Quality Strong Construction. The radiuses allow for a lighter gauge metal with incredible strength.
Perfect fit. There is a radius to the rails that matches the vehicle perfectly. All the bolt holes line up perfectly also.
Average size feet fit on the step section well. If you have a size 17 shoe that might be different.
If I ever install a roof rack I will be able to stand on the rails to reach it.
Now The Mopar Jeep Rock Rails Are Installed Next Step Will Be The 2" Mopar Lift Kit
I chose the Mopar Bisltein 2" Reservoir Shock Kit for the Gladiator. Actually I'm updating this post years after having done the install and that kit has been a game changer for the Gladiator. You can see that install blog post and article video here:
Update:
We have been on a couple off-road trips and these rock rails have worked great. Sometimes you have to get in and out on ground that is not exactly level. That is when we found these rails worked well. Foot on the rail, hand on grab handle and into the Jeep. And they do a great job of protecting the Gladiator too.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts & Next Steps
Upgrading to the Mopar Performance Rock Rails with steps gives you the best of both worlds: rock-solid trail protection for your pinch welds and an easy, practical step up for daily driving. Whether you're running at stock height or preparing for a 2-inch lift, this straightforward, one-hour driveway mod adds genuine utility without compromising off-road clearance.
Support the Studio: If you plan on picking up these rock rails, side steps, or any other trail gear for your Jeep build, please consider using our [Amazon Affiliate Links]. Using these links doesn’t cost you an extra penny, but the small commission earned goes straight into supporting the workshop and funding more hands-on DIY install guides.
Join the Community: Don't forget to [Subscribe to the Muddy Ruttzz YouTube Channel] for step-by-step install videos, overlanding field tests, and trade-tested rig walk-arounds.
Drop a comment below or over on the YouTube channel with any questions about torque specs, fitment, or your own rig's setup. See you out on the trail!
About the Author
Muddy Ruttzz is a digital creator, overlander, and DIY builder documenting rugged vehicle builds and outdoor adventures. Backed by a career in industrial sheet metal fabrication, heavy infrastructure construction, and mechanical maintenance, he provides practical, trade-tested technical guides for real-world off-road performance.
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