AMP research running board removal

Hi All,

Long time reader, finally joined because I recently purchased a 2017 limited.

My new (to me) truck came with the amp research power running boards installed (professionally per service records). I am considering removal of the amp running boards as I want a fixed set.

Unbolting/unplugging the control module and running boards under the truck seems simple, but do I have any major wiring work to consider as part of the removal process? It seems that the installation required splicing wires etc.

Will I need to undo all of that to prevent error codes, etc? What risks do I run with undertaking this? I’m semi mechanically inclined and do most of my own maintenance work.

Thanks.

 

I just recently installed a set on my '18. The wiring is very simple. You'd need to remove a couple of the inside panels on both the driver and passenger side to access the wiring for each door where they are most likely spliced in with posi-tap style connectors. They look like little red capsules. You can probably just snip the wire where you see the posi-tap or just unscrew them. There should be 4 total. Then just follow the wiring to the control module that should be in the back corner near your fuse box under the hood and unplug everything from it.

Are the steps in good shape? Motors functioning properly? Sell em on OfferUp or Marketplace if they're in good shape.

Good luck

Here's the posi-taps

 

Yup, everything seems to be in great condition. I just prefer the fixed steps.

i have not pulled any of the panels yet to see what’s going on. I saw a few people using various clips to install which had me a bit worried as I do not normally mess with electrical wiring/splicing.

So technically if I cut the wires running from the amp module, it should not disturb anything else with the oem wiring?

 

I wouldn't cut the wires at the actual module under the hood. Those can simply disconnect from the module. You'll have one bundle of wire going down each side of the engine bay then up into the cab underneath the carpet. Plus one wire connected to your battery. If you're not trying to retain the wiring for resale, cut it wherever you'd like.
Here's an install video that should give you an idea..
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4cmxL1_mYRY

Jump to 3:00 where he starts going into running the wires. Then at 4:00 he shows you how to remove the 2 panels. After taking off the kick panel you should see the posi-taps. If you don't want to deal with the posi-taps cut just before them and that should allow you to pull the wiring out the cab from underneath the carpet

 

I pulled mine and cut wires around the frame, thru the floorboard, and under the hood I couldn't reach.
I didn't feel like dropping my cat plates to cut all the zip ties on the frame when I installed them.
I had no intention of reselling them, most of it went in the trash, and I gave away a few parts on the forum.

First thing you need to do it either pull the Amp step inline fuse at the battery or disconnect the step lead from the battery.
Or just disconnect the battery completely so you don't short anything out when removing the trigger wiring in the kickplate.
As @TacomaTRD4x402 stated the only connection to the OEM wiring is the wiring in the kickplate panel.
That is, unless your power steps are connected through the OBDII port.
The lights are (should be) connected to the Power Steps module.
I don't foresee you getting any error codes, your truck ECUs don't even know the steps are installed.

I don't blame you for wanting to remove them.
They are loud, I got tired of replacing parts (motors and gears), and I got more parking lot door dents after installing the AMP steps.
If you did a clean removal, you could probably sell them here on the forum after you get 50 constructive posts.
I'd guess someone would buy them if you live in a metropolitan area..

Welcome to the forum..

 

All,

Really appreciate the thoughts and help. I was able to poke around in the engine bay and cabin earlier - I snapped a couple of pics, which I am sharing.

If I am understanding correctly, it looks like the prior owner used the OBDII port connection method. I see a "powerstep" currently plugged into the exposed port under the steering wheel. Additionally, I do not see any colored (i think purple or red usually)/labeled/spliced wires behind the kick plate on the driver's side. However, I do see that fuzzy black line that was zip tied in (no idea what that is tbh).

So does this mean I got off lucky from an uninstall perspective? I simply disconnect at battery terminal first (as suggested) and gradually trace the cables related to the system down to the running boards, unplug/unbolt everything and carefully snake them out from the heatshields, etc.? The OBDII method basically controls/calibrates everything with the doors and lights? Seems like OBDII simplifies both installation as nothing from the factory is disturbed?

 

Hmm that's even better if it's connected by OBDII. I didn't think it was possible for our gen tundras to connect via OBDII buy yeah, I'd just have the cables like you said and see whether it leads you to(hopefully the power steps). As for that fuzzy wire loom, that's definitely not what AMP sends with their kit.