Re: Why were running boards phased out?

Posted by JWL On 2015/11/19 17:20:48

More modern streamlined styles to envelope body features were fast becoming the fashion in the late 1930s. Running boards were made obsolete with fenders blended into the body and lower floor boards. Note that the 20th-21st series Clippers and the 22nd and 23rd series Packards all had what could be called abbreviated running boards. We did not see something like them again until they started to be fitted to pickups and SUVs. Now they were called steps.

I sometimes wish my 115C convertible coupe did not have running boards. They make entry and egress difficult. They are wide and pose more of a problem than help. Also, the car is not high enough to warrant them. Using them to get in or out is not comfortable, nor is stepping over them. The shortened top just adds to the problem. One must watch his head.

(o{}o)