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Includes one pair of side bars and mounting hardware
Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty (Three-Year Finish, One-Year Parts)
Finish: SEMI-GLOSS BLACK POWDER COAT
Material: Blank
Color: Black
Side Component Type: Board and Bracket
ARIES 3" side bars are more than a fancy decal for your truck, Jeep or SUV. They are a confident first step on each new adventure. These 3" nerf bars are constructed from strong carbon steel for superior rigidity, and they feature a sleek semi-gloss black powder coat finish. For an added edge, each nerf bar also goes through an E-coat process, before receiving its black powder coat, to strengthen and protect the final finish against peeling, chipping and scratching. ARIES 3" round side bars are also available in polished stainless steel or semi-gloss black powder-coated steel. All ARIES 3" nerf bars come with heavy-duty steel brackets and non-skid step pads. The mounting brackets are strong and custom-designed for specific makes and models to allow the side bars to contour to the lines of your vehicle. They offer easy installation and the strength necessary to provide sound footing. These particular custom nerf bars fit specific years of the Ford Explorer (see application info to verify fitment). ARIES 3" round side bars also come with non-skid step pads made of tough polypropylene. These step pads feature a textured pattern for enhanced safety, and they cover a wide portion of the tubes for a more comfortable step.

Explore ARIES products at TowUniverse for top-tier grille guards, side bars, nerf bars, headache racks, and more. Upgrade your vehicle with ARIES today!
ARIES is a fast-paced marketer and innovator of truck, Jeep, SUV and CUV accessories. From automotive enthusiasts to professional builders, our products are built for the champions of individualism, innovation and attitude.
We offer the perfect combination of unique style and durable construction, specializing in custom-fit grille guards, bull bars, side bars and running boards, as well as Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator accessories.
ARIES products are made vehicle-specific for a custom fit, and they are available for a wide variety of makes and models sold in North America.
Experts available to answer your questions
Call 888-634-9494Limited Lifetime Warranty (Three-Year Finish, One-Year Parts)
1 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Style | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1995 - 2001 | Ford Explorer | Sport Utility · 4-Door | — |
The ARIES 203036 3-Inch Round Black Steel Nerf Bars, No-Drill, Fits Select Ford Explorer (Part #BBDR203036) fits the following vehicles: 1995-2001 Ford Explorer. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The ARIES 203036 3-Inch Round Black Steel Nerf Bars, No-Drill, Fits Select Ford Explorer (Part #BBDR203036) fits 1995-2001 Ford Explorer models. The 2001 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
Yes, the ARIES 203036 3-Inch Round Black Steel Nerf Bars, No-Drill, Fits Select Ford Explorer (Part #BBDR203036) is designed to fit the 1995-2001 Ford Explorer.
The ARIES 203036 3-Inch Round Black Steel Nerf Bars, No-Drill, Fits Select Ford Explorer (Part #BBDR203036) Refer to the included instructions for installation details. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
The Curt 203036 sidebar set is designed for Ford Explorer 4-door and Mercury Mountaineer models from 1999 to 2001 only. Verify your vehicle year and body style before purchasing.
The kit includes one sidebar set (driver and passenger sides), two front bracket sets (driver and passenger), two front bracket complements (driver and passenger), two rear bracket sets (driver and passenger), and a hardware kit containing four ½ x 2" hex head bolts, two ½ x 7" hex head bolts, eight ½" flat washers, and eight ½" lock washers.
You will need a 3/4" socket, 7/8" socket, 3/4" wrench, 15mm wrench, extension, and ratchet.
Yes. You must locate and loosen (but not remove) the axial bolt that supports the suspension and the bolt located on the inside part of the frame, approximately ½" in size. These bolts must be loose to allow the bracket to slide into position. Do not remove them completely.
1. Install the front bracket above the frame with the bent facing the motor, then insert the front bracket complement below the frame and secure with one ½ x 7" bolt, washer, and lock washer per side (leave loose). 2. Install the rear bracket to the sidebar using one ½ x 2" bolt, washer, and lock washer per side (leave loose). 3. Loosen the suspension bolts. 4. Slide the bracket assembly onto the loose frame bolts. 5. Install the sidebar to the front bracket using one ½ x 2" bolt, washer, and lock washer (leave loose). 6. Make final alignment adjustments and tighten all bolts. Repeat for the opposite side.
All bolts are left loose during assembly to allow the sidebar and brackets to shift and align properly. Once final alignment is achieved, all bolts are tightened together. This ensures proper fit and prevents misalignment.
The sidebar set consists of driver and passenger sides. The manual notes that the nearest path to the bent part is in the rear of the vehicle. Determine the correct side before installation to avoid installing components on the wrong side.
Yes. The manual states you may need to periodically re-tighten the bolts after installation. Check bolt tightness at regular intervals to maintain secure attachment.
Yes, if your vehicle is a Ford Explorer 4-door or Mercury Mountaineer from 1999–2001. Other years and body styles are not compatible.
3/4" and 7/8" sockets, 3/4" and 15mm wrenches, extension, and ratchet.
The manual does not mention drilling, cutting, or welding. You must loosen (not remove) existing suspension bolts to allow bracket insertion.
The manual estimates approximately 30 minutes for installation.
Yes, you may need to periodically re-tighten the bolts after installation.
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