APEX Series Rock Sliders / Side Steps - 170 - Regular

APEX Series Rock Sliders: Elevate Your Sprinter's Stance

Dive into the world of Sprinter enhancements with the APEX Series Rock Sliders Side Steps. They don't just redefine side steps; they set the gold standard in design and protection.

Back in 2020, when we developed the APEX Rock Slider, our goal was to tackle four key problems faced by all Mercedes Sprinter owners:

1. Stone Damage: Aggressive all-terrain tires often throw stones that chip paint along the sides of the van, eventually causing rust spots. Speaking from experience, our first Sprinter had its side panels repainted just four years after we bought it new.

2. Rocker Panel Protection: The Sprinter’s tight turning radius and long wheelbase make it particularly susceptible to side swipes and rocker panel damage. That’s why we chose steel for the construction—slightly heavier than aluminum, but the most reliable material for a true rock slider. However, if weight is your priority, we also offer an all-aluminum option. 

3. Improper Lifting: We’ve seen—and repaired—numerous rocker panels damaged by mechanics attempting to lift a 9,000 lbs + van from the pinch seam. (This even happened to Backland’s Sprinter just five days after leaving the dealership!)

4. Functionality and Style: We wanted a rugged, aesthetically pleasing, and symmetrical side step to enhance convenience and enjoyment during camping trips, especially with frequent climbing in and out of the van.

We believe we’ve exceeded expectations with the APEX Series Rock Sliders. Many have attempted to replicate our design, but none have matched the level of protection and quality we deliver!

We chose INDY Protective Coating to finish our steps, offering the ultimate in durability and rust protection, as well as exceptional non-slip safety—even when covered with snow. INDY Coating is a polyurea-based product made in Texas and exclusively available in Western Canada. It features a beautiful, even texture that maintains its fresh appearance for years, unlike other textured polyurethane coatings.

Every step is meticulously laser-cut, formed, and welded in Canada, then sandblasted to remove mill scale, ensuring a surface that allows for optimal adhesion. Hard-to-coat areas are carefully inspected and sealed before finishing, then inspected again after coating to maintain the highest quality standards. Each step is either carefully packaged or installed directly at our facility, delivering a product that’s truly built to last.

Engineered to maximize ground clearance for off-road adventures, these are the top choice for 2WD vans. Perfectly tailored for all Mercedes Sprinters, from 2007 to the latest model. Fit, function, and style designed just for your van. Looking for a lower step? Please see our APEX Drop Down Rock Sliders.

Features At A Glance:

• Optimal Access: Positioned 6 inches below your Sprinter's default step, these rock sliders side steps allow you to step in and out with ease. Moreover, for those eyeing an even lower access point, consider our Drop Down variant.
• Easy Installation: Back in 2023 we redesigned the mounting brackets (now made of stainless steel) to create what could be the simplest and quickest installation of all available Sprinter specific side steps while improving the overall stiffness.
• Formidable Defense: Beyond their stylish appearance, these sliders boast a non-slip INDY Protective Coating. Consequently, they actively guard against outdoor elements like rocks, stumps, and stone chips that can cause rust.
• Strategic Placement: Fitted snugly beneath the rocker panels, they shield the crucial pinch seam, enhancing your ground clearance. In doing so, they ward off potential threats to your van's exterior.
• Adaptable Design: We've meticulously shaped them to complement the rocker panels’ natural curves. Additionally, if you already have a pinch seam-mounted ladder, we can provide a custom version. Reach out to us!
• Reliable Support: Mechanics often lift using the pinch seam, risking your Sprinter’s structural health. These rock sliders side steps counter that risk. Reinforced to bear your van’s weight, they prioritize safety and longevity.

The definition of a Rock Slider: 

Off-road rock sliders are durable, reinforced metal bars or panels mounted along the sides of a ladder-frame 4x4 truck (Ex: Toyota Land Cruiser, Mercedes G Wagon, Ineos Grenadier), directly attached to the vehicle’s frame. Their primary purpose is to protect the rocker panels and underbody from damage caused by rocks, stumps, or other obstacles encountered on rugged off-road terrain. Rock sliders also help distribute the weight of the vehicle if it slides against obstacles, and some are strong enough to serve as a step or support for jacking up the truck during recovery.

Sprinter vans feature a unibody construction, which makes welding a true rock slider impractical. To address this, we developed the APEX Series—designed to deliver superior rocker panel protection against side impacts. However, they have limited capacity to support the weight of a 9,000-11,000 lb van when using a Hi-Lift jack.

For side lifting a camper van, we recommend using a Hi-Lift LM-100 Lift-Mate, which enables the jack to lift the vehicle directly from the wheel. While we have successfully lifted our vans using the APEX rock sliders (specifically from the inner square tube), this tested the limits of the Hi-Lift XT485 48-Inch X-TREME Jack (rated at 4,500 lbs). As such, we do not recommend this method. For safer recovery of a stuck Sprinter, we suggest using a 12,000 lb winch or traction boards such as Maxtrax or Action Trax. If you need to replace a damaged tire, the Mercedes bottle jack is the safest option, lifting from the rear axle or front trailing arm.

Finally, when you pair them with our IBEX side ladder, the combination is transformative. Together, they redefine your Sprinter's accessibility.

Shipping within 3-5 business days and handcrafted in Alberta, Canada, these rock sliders side steps offer both performance and a testament to quality craftsmanship.

Need an installation? Not a problem, our experienced technician will be happy to help you!  Click here to add an installation your order

* BACK IN STOCK !

This item generally ships within 3-5 days.

Handmade in Canada

We ship to all locations across Canada  and the USA