1938 Buick Special Running Boards

[likeold]

What options are there to replace the rubber covers on the running boards? My metal is good but the rubber could use updating.

[Bloo]

Are they molded? If so, it's a fairly expensive undertaking. @37_Roadmaster_C had some 1937 Roadmaster boards done up in Canada, and I understand they came out very nice. I'll try to find out who did them.

[EmTee]

The high-dollar option: http://www.runningboardrubber.com/Buick.html

 

There are rubber runners available that could be glued to the metal, however, none of the ones I've seen replicate the original  '38 Buick profile.  https://restorationstuff.com/shop/#fb0=35

[1937-44]

 Steele Rubber used to make two piece 37-38 running board mats that were glued to the runners.

[Bloo]

15 hours ago, Bloo said:

I'll try to find out who did them.

 

14 hours ago, EmTee said:

The high-dollar option: http://www.runningboardrubber.com/Buick.html

 

That's the one.

 

[bobj49f2]

I know this thread is over a year old but I'm making mats for Specials.  I am also making mats for Centurys but have to verify the fit.  I am also exploring to make mats for Roadmasters.

 

 

[Edward DePouli]

Hunley Acuff of Georgia used to be the go-to guy for getting super high quality running boards for Buicks and many other makes. He gave up the business when health issues became a problem. I was advised that his business was purchased by Drew at Fat Fenders Kustomz, LLC of Heflin, Al; 770-502-5950. When Hunley was doing running boards, you would send him the old running boards. He would remove the rubber; sandblast the steel core; and bond new rubber to the restored cores. We had two sets of 1938 Roadmaster running boards prepared by him. The quality was perfect and they are still good looking after about 40-years.

I notice another reply on this topic from Bob Jones at www.fatfenderedtrucks.com. Same guy???

There's another guy in Vancover, Canada doing Roadmaster running boards. (My son and I have four different Raodmasters) We had two more sets done by him a few years ago. 

If Hunley gets a 100 rating for his boards, I would rate the boards from Canada at maybe a 75 to 80. Not the same pattern as the original, and not a smooth, high gloss, finish. 

[bobj49f2]

I'm not the same as Fat Fendered Kystomz.  Never heard of the other Fat Fendered place but will check them out.  

 

I thought I heard someone in Canada bought Acuff's business equipment, I just assumed it was the guy in Vancouver so he could eliminate any competition.  I was just assuming, didn't know anything for sure.