If you’ve ever tried loading gear into your truck bed while parked on uneven terrain, you know the awkward dance of trying to climb in without a good stepping point. That’s where the AMP Research BedStep from RealTruck comes in – a retractable step designed to make accessing your truck bed easier. After a month of use on my 2017 Toyota Tacoma, I’ve got some thoughts to share on whether this $329.99 accessory is worth adding to your rig.
Note: If you’re curious how the BedStep would look on your truck before purchasing, check out the RealTruck Builder tool. This 3D visualization platform lets you see the BedStep and other accessories on a digital model of your specific truck, giving you a preview of how everything will look once installed. It’s a handy way to plan your truck build before committing.
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Specifications: AMP Research BedStep
Before diving into my experience, let’s cover what you need to know about the AMP Research BedStep:
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Construction: High-strength aluminum alloy frame with glass-reinforced non-slip step pad
- Installation: Bolt-on (some applications may require drilling)
- Warranty: 3-year warranty against manufacturing and material defects
- Features: Retractable design, foot-operated deployment
For my specific application (2017 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab with 3.5L V6), the product came as part number 75317-01A and was guaranteed to fit with no additional modifications needed. It’s worth noting that the BedStep is available for an impressive variety of truck models spanning multiple manufacturers, including Ford, Chevrolet, GMC, RAM, Toyota, and Nissan. With fitment options for over 70 different truck configurations, covering everything from full-size F-150s or RAM 1500s, to midsize trucks like my Tacoma, to heavy-duty models like the F-250 or Silverado 2500, RealTruck likely offers a compatible BedStep solution specifically engineered for your vehicle’s frame and bumper configuration.
At $329.99, the AMP Research BedStep represents a significant investment for what is essentially a convenience accessory. However, considering the quality of the finished product and the usefulness it provides, I’d say the price is justified – if only barely. Had the brackets been better manufactured or pre-assembled, I would feel more confident in the value assessment. For those who frequently need to access their truck bed – whether for work or recreation – the convenience factor alone might make this worth the investment. The three-year warranty provides some peace of mind regarding the long-term durability.
“The AMP Research BedStep
, by RealTruck, is the ultimate addition to any pickup truck—whether used for work, play, or both. This innovative retractable step system provides truck owners with a wide, non-slip step surface at the rear corner of the bed, enabling efficient bed access with loading and unloading cargo.
Strength and reliability are two of AMP Research’s core values, and the BedStep embodies both. The heavy-duty die-cast aluminum frame offers unparalleled strength, supporting up to 300 pounds. A heavy-duty, glass-reinforced step pad provides a stout foothold and superior all-weather traction, regardless of rain, snow, or mud.
The AMP Research BedStep possesses a convenient retractable design that tucks high and tight against your truck’s rear bumper. Whenever bed access is needed, kick the step pad downwards to deploy it. When you’re finished loading and unloading cargo, kick the step pad upwards to retract it.
RealTruck backs the AMP Research BedStep with a 3-year warranty against manufacturing and material defects.”
Planning Your Truck Build?: If you’re inspired to add a BedStep or other accessories to your truck, RealTruck’s online Builder tool is worth checking out. The 3D visualization platform allows you to see exactly how accessories will look on your specific truck model before purchasing. You can experiment with different combinations of products, including steps, tonneau covers, grille guards, and more – all rendered on a digital model of your vehicle. It’s a risk-free way to design your dream truck build and ensure everything works together visually before spending a dime.
Installation Experience: AMP Research BedStep
I opted to install the BedStep myself rather than paying for professional installation. If you’re reasonably handy and have a good set of tools, DIY installation is doable, but be prepared for some challenges. The installation process was significantly more time-consuming than I expected. Living in Minnesota, where road salt and winter conditions are brutal on vehicle undercarriages, dealing with the stock bolts that needed to be removed was a particular challenge. Years of rust made these factory fasteners stubborn to remove, and the awkward positioning didn’t help matters.
One particularly frustrating issue was with the included bracket components. The two bracket pieces didn’t line up perfectly out of the box, requiring some manipulation with a bench vise just to get the holes aligned properly. At one point, I nearly gave up on the installation because there was only so much bending and adjusting I could do. For a premium product at this price point, I expected better quality control on these components.
One other criticism is that no instructions were included with my sample, only warranty paperwork. I had to look online and get a pdf from RealTruck. The instructions themselves were clear enough, but they don’t fully prepare you for dealing with real-world conditions like rusted bolts or slight misalignments. Make sure you have a comprehensive set of tools before starting, including various socket sizes, wrenches, and potentially penetrating oil for those stubborn factory fasteners.
Build Quality and Design: AMP Research BedStep
Once installed, the BedStep looks surprisingly factory – it tucks up neatly against the rear bumper when retracted and doesn’t stick out awkwardly or affect the truck’s lines. If you didn’t know to look for it, you might not even notice it’s there. This sleek integration is definitely one of the product’s strongest features.
The step itself is solidly constructed with a textured, non-slip surface large enough to accommodate a full-size boot. The aluminum frame feels robust, though I did notice a slight give from the spring mechanism when applying my full weight (around 230 lbs). While well within the 300 lb rated capacity, I’d exercise caution using it in icy or very slippery conditions.
Real-World Performance: AMP Research BedStep
The deployment and retraction mechanism is where the BedStep truly shines. A firm downward push with your foot deploys the step smoothly, and a gentle upward nudge retracts it securely against the bumper. The action is consistent and has worked flawlessly every time I’ve used it.
As a taller guy (6’1″), I’ve found the BedStep surprisingly useful. While I can reach into the bed without assistance, actually climbing in would normally require awkwardly crawling onto the tailgate. The BedStep provides a secure, stable platform positioned at just the right height to make the transition into the bed much more comfortable and dignified – no more scrambling or crawling required.
After a month of regular use, the step shows no signs of wear, and the mechanism remains smooth. The painted/coated surfaces are holding up well against dirt and road grime, though long-term durability in Minnesota’s harsh winters remains to be seen.
Pros and Cons: AMP Research BedStep
What I Like
- Nearly invisible when retracted – integrates with the truck’s appearance perfectly
- Sturdy, reliable deployment and retraction mechanism
- Weight capacity handles even larger individuals comfortably
- Makes bed access significantly easier and more convenient
- Non-slip surface feels secure underfoot
What Could Be Improved
- Quality control issues with brackets requiring manipulation to align properly
- Installation more challenging than indicated, especially in regions where rust is an issue
- The BedStep is only available for driver-side (left side) installation – a right-side option would be ideal for right-handed users who would naturally want to grab the bed with their dominant hand while stepping up
- Spring mechanism has slight give under weight, which might concern some users
- Premium price point makes it a thoughtful purchase
Final Thoughts: AMP Research BedStep
The AMP Research BedStep is one of those accessories that you don’t realize how much you needed until you have it. Despite the installation headaches and my concerns about the bracket quality, the end result is a product that works flawlessly and integrates beautifully with my Tacoma. For those who value easier access to their truck bed and don’t mind paying a premium for a well-engineered solution, the BedStep is worth considering. The convenience factor is high once installed, and the sleek design doesn’t compromise your truck’s appearance or capability.
Would I recommend it? Yes, with the caveat that installation might require more patience and tool dexterity than the average bolt-on accessory. The finished product, however, delivers on its promises and has already saved me from numerous awkward climbing maneuvers in the month I’ve had it installed. It’s worth noting that RealTruck has also released the BedStep2, which mounts on the side of the vehicle just in front of the rear wheel, providing an additional stepping option. If you’re considering a step system for your truck, it might be worth looking at both options to see which better suits your needs.
In closing, I want to say thank you to RealTruck for allowing AllOutdoor and myself the opportunity to try out their AMP Research BedStep. That is greatly appreciated. Also, we would like to know what all of you guys and gals think. Do you use any stepping accessories on your truck? Would you consider adding something like the BedStep? Let us know all of your thoughts in the Comments below! We always appreciate your feedback.
The post AllOutdoor Review: AMP Research BedStep by RealTruck appeared first on AllOutdoor.com.
