Hummer U-Step Removal advice
 

First post and seeking some advice! I am the original owner of a 2003 Hummer H2 with 68K miles. The rock rails have rotted away at the ends. I understand there is value in the U-steps that I am removing. My question...how does one remove them? I know the knob has to be unscrewed (not easy) but not sure how those other pins come out? I have never had the steps off. Any help appreciated!!!

Post some pics..

The other pins do not come out, they are fixed in the U-step. Once the knob comes out the steps can then be removed. They were designed for quick on and off if one was offroading for greater clearance.

Thanks, I see that now. Simple. IF the darn knobs would unscrew. But, no luck in getting that to happen. I’m sure it is galvanic corrosion so not sure how I am gonna proceed. Too bad because the steps are in perfect shape. Just need powder coating.

Usually the knobs won't come off if they are corroded. I've seen many steps for sale over the years where the plastic knob is cut off so the steps can be removed leaving the threaded portion stuck in the step. Still would be easier to work on off the rig than installed. I wonder if a little MAP gas would help loosen things up, probably melt the knob though.

Right. I have them off the rig. The rock rails were rotted and crazy expensive to buy new now so I just threw some Nerf bars on as I only use the Hummer to tow behind my motorhome. I figure I will find a metal shop to try to get them off or drill them out. Thanks again!

Yes every set of U-Steps eventually has the steel knob and aluminum step galvanically corrode together. All four of mind did it. If you cant get the knob to spin off then cut it right under the knob as to save the threaded steel shaft. Then take a nut and use the seized shaft as a threaded bolt. This way you can keep using the steps and just have to use a wrench to remove the nuts instead of the handy handle.

Hey thanks for that. Trying to understand what you mean about where to cut them off? Do you mean to cut the knob off up to the shaft and leave the shaft on somehow? Not quite sure what it looks like under the knob. Thanks!

Yes. If you can’t twist the knob because it is corroded then get a pair of channel locks. Spray with penetrating oil and try to unscew the knob with the channel lock pliers. Most likely you will ruin the knob or break it off the steel shaft. At that point cut it off leaving the steel threaded shaft stuck in the aluminum step. Use that threaded shaft as your new permanent bolt and find a similarly threaded nut as its future mate.