AMP Research PowerStep XL Installation Guide
For Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Crew Cab Models
Product Overview
Thank you for your recent AMP Research Purchase. This guide provides instructions for installing the AMP Research PowerStep XL running boards on compatible Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Crew Cab vehicles.
Applications:
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500 - Crew Cab (2022-2023)
- GMC Sierra 1500 - Crew Cab (2022-2023)
- Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500 - Crew Cab (2024)
- GMC Sierra 2500/3500 - Crew Cab (2024)
Note: This application works only on the Crew Cab model vehicles.
Installation Details
Installation Time: 3-5 Hours
Skill Level: 4 (Experienced recommended)
Tools Required:
- Safety goggles
- Measuring tape
- Power Drill
- 10 mm socket
- 13 mm socket
- 1/2" socket
- Ratchet wrench and extension
- Wire crimpers
- Wire stripper / cutter
- 3/16" hex key wrench (allen wrench)
- 4mm hex key wrench (allen wrench)
- Electrical tape
- Weather proof caulking (silicone sealer)
- Silicone spray
Parts List
The PowerStep XL system includes the following components:
- Running board assembly (x2)
- Motor Linkage assembly - Driver (1)
- Motor Linkage assembly - Passenger (1)
- Idler Linkage assembly (x2)
- Rail Assembly (x2)
- Wire harness (1)
- Controller STA (1)
- Posi-Lock™ (x2)
- M8 Hex Bolt w/ Conical washer (x20)
- M6 Flange Bolt (x4)
- Socket Cap Screw (x8)
- 5/16-18 Carriage Bolt (x14)
- 5/16-18 Flange nut (x14)
- Upper Mount Spacer (x4)
- Cable tie (7") (x20)
- Cable tie (11") (x2)
- LED Lamp (x4)
- LED Light Bracket (x4)
- Butt Connector (x8)
- OBD II Plug (1)
- Posi-Tap™ (Red/Grey) (x2)
- Motor kit (x2)
- Linkage Mounting Bracket (Right) (x2)
- Linkage Mounting Bracket (Left) (x2)
- Rail Mounting Bracket (x2)
Assembly Instructions
Step 1: Mount Brackets
Remove plastic body plugs in three locations. Using supplied M8 Conical washer bolts (9), install brackets (23, 24, 25) onto the truck frame. Ensure bracket legs face each other. The rail support bracket should be located between the front and rear linkage mounts. Do not tighten fully to allow for adjustment.
Step 2: Attach Rails to Brackets
Slide carriage bolts (12) into the rail. Position the rails to attach the brackets, leaving the 3rd and 5th bolts accessible for attaching light brackets. Use flange nuts (15) to attach the board to the brackets. Do not tighten fully to allow for adjustment. Note: Ensure the badge on the rail sits towards the rear of the vehicle.
Step 3: Attach Light Brackets
Add LED Light Brackets (18) to the 3rd and 5th bolts (counting from the front). Insert Flange Nut (13) onto the bracket tab to secure the light brackets. Do not tighten fully. Repeat steps 1-3 on the other side of the vehicle.
Step 4: Attach Linkages to Frame
Thread supplied bolts (9) into the rear drive linkage and front idler linkage. Do not tighten.
Step 5: Install Spacers and Bolts
Install provided spacer (14) and M6 bolt (10) into the upper mount on both the drive and idler linkages. Do not tighten.
Step 6: Center and Tighten Board
Slide the mounting T-nut into position. Center the running board in the rail pocket. Tighten fasteners to 10 ft-lbs.
Step 7: Torque Linkage Bolts
Using a 13mm socket, torque linkage bolts (9) from Step 4 to 16 ft-lbs. Using a 10mm socket, torque linkage spacer bolts (10) from Step 5 to 8 ft-lbs.
Step 8: Verify Rail Clearance
Verify rail clearance at the front fender trim. Push upwards on the rail to ensure it is snug against the bottom of the linkage mounting bracket. Using a 1/2" socket, start at the rear of the vehicle and work forward. Torque the mounting bracket hardware (from Step 1) and flange nuts (13) to 16 ft-lbs.
Step 9: Attach Motor to Linkage
Attach the motor to the linkage assembly using a 4mm hex wrench. Torque to 36 in-lbs.
Step 10: Prepare Battery and Harness
Remove the negative terminal from the battery to prevent a Check Engine Light (CEL) when disconnecting connectors under the dash (Step 13). A loss of communication code may appear if the battery is not disconnected.
Attach the wire harness to the controller, ensuring locking tabs engage. Remove the cover on the battery top box. Connect the Red wire to the stud on the positive power battery cable terminal. Secure the controller with supplied 11" cable ties (16). The Black wire will be attached to the negative terminal accessory stud when the battery is reconnected (Step 19).
Step 11: Route Wire Harness
Route the long wire harness leg across the truck under the edge of the cowl, securing it with zip ties through the push rivet slots on the bottom. Route it down to the outside of the frame, away from the exhaust and steering. Secure with cable ties (15). The other leg should go down immediately away from the exhaust and towards the frame area. Secure with cable ties as needed.
Step 12: Route Harness to Rear Linkages
Route wire harness along the frame and back towards the rear linkages. Secure with zip ties. Push both wires through rubber grommets.
Step 13: Access Kick Panel Area
Remove the driver side door sill trim and kick panel carefully. Pull up the carpet and poke a small screwdriver through the rubber insulation material.
Step 14: Seal Holes
Seal any holes with silicone glue and cover with tape to prevent the carpet from sticking to the glue.
Step 15: Install LED Lamps
Affix the LED lamp (17) to the LED bracket (18) installed in Step 3. Slide the bracket into the desired position and tighten using a 5/32" Allen key.
Step 16: Connect Lamp Wires
Using supplied butt connectors (19), connect the lamp wires: Red to Red, Black to Black. Use a heat gun to shrink the tubing. Close and wrap the conduit with electrical tape. Secure all loose wires with cable ties. Pull the lamp wires upward to avoid snagging.
Step 17: Connect OBD Module Wires
In the driver side kick panel area, locate the bank of 8 plugs. Identify the light grey and light green connectors.
- On the dark grey connector, locate the Light Green/Grey stripe wire in pin location 29. Use the supplied Posi-Tap™ (21) to connect the blue wire from the OBD module.
- On the light green connector, locate the Green/Yellow stripe wire in pin location 19. Use the supplied Posi-Tap™ (21) to connect the white wire from the OBD module.
Refer to the Posi-Lock™ (8) instructions for installation.
Step 18: OBD II Installation
Use supplied Posi Twist connectors to attach the Plug and Play Module to the harness. Match the colors on the harness to the wires on the module. Plug the module into the vehicle's OBD II port. Secure the harness with supplied tie wraps.
Note: If the OBD II pass-through harness (76404-01A) was purchased, refer to the install sheet supplied in packaging. This harness allows for an open port for other accessories.
Step 19: Final System Check
Reconnect the negative battery terminal and attach the black wire to the terminal. Check that all doors activate the PowerStep and the LED lights function correctly when doors are opened and closed. Reinstall any remaining trim panels.
Normal Operation:
When doors open, PowerStep automatically deploys. When doors close, PowerStep automatically retracts to the stowed position. There is a 2-second delay before retraction.
Correct Operation of Lights:
All four LED lamps illuminate upon opening any door. Lamps stay on until the PowerSteps are stowed or 5 minutes pass with doors open. Lights can be reactivated by closing and opening any door.
Warranty Information
5-Year Limited Warranty
AMP RESEARCH warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship for FIVE (5) YEARS FROM DATE OF PURCHASE, provided there has been normal use and proper maintenance. This warranty applies to the original purchaser only. Remedies are limited to repair or replacement of the product or defective component part.
This warranty specifically excludes labor. For warranty claims, contact AMP Research at 1-888-983-2204 for instructions. Proof of purchase is required.
Damage caused by accidents, fire, vandalism, negligence, misinstallation, misuse, Acts of God, or defective parts not manufactured by AMP Research is not covered.
Implied warranties of MERCHANTABILITY and FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE are limited to the duration of this express warranty. AMP Research is not liable for incidental or consequential damages.
Some states may have different warranty rights.
WARNING: Failure to follow instructions precisely could result in a dangerous situation for vehicle occupants. Ensure the product is properly installed after completion.
Recycle the product and its packaging where possible.