Been looking at a lot of COE's and notice that it is a 50-50 proposition when it comes to an extra step to climb into the cab. I know that you have to be a contortionist to get in, but does an extra step help? I have a '42 Ford COE and wonder if it's something I should consider? Many steps seem to be molded or added onto the fender. Any thoughts would be most and sincerely helpful.
No extra step on mine and I can get in and out easily. You just need to learn how to get in...then it is easy. On the drivers side, put your left foot on the running board...not the right as you want to do. What you really need is a place to grab by the dash as you enter. The driver can grab the steering wheel, but the p***enger has nothing.
The early Ford COEs (1938-1947) use a single running board/step. The later Ford and Chevy COEs mount above the frame higher to keep the engine less intrusive inside the cab. These COEs have an extra step from the factory. It all depends on the year if it has the extra step.
I am going to have to make mine a "two step". The wife is 5' 1". If I don't give her two steps, I will have to toss her in when we go places.
Another issue is getting out. You heal will run down the paint on the fender as you search for the running board.