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Larry, The tubes are plenty strong enough but caution should be used when selecting these types of steps. Some are full round and others have a flat spot for the step. In either case, make sure there is enough area to provide a safe step. I'll also go along with the point that running boards give more protection to the sides of the vehicle. Safety should be the first concern and style should be the last. The safest steps are those that provide a large enough suface area to give firm footing. Another thing to consider is your location. Being there in the windy city, you get a lot of ice and snow which can also cause problems. According to the federal DOT, the type of steps used on semi-trucks are the overall safest design. These have open holes that allow dirt, snow, water, ect. to go through rather than build up on the step. The holes are punched in a manner as to provide an edge around the hole to increase footing. These can be purchased in a variety of sizes and shapes however, you may have to order them on-line or at a local truck shop. Fitting them to a smaller vehicle will take some doing but can be done. I put these type on my dad's 3/4 ton 4x4 dodge pick-up for my mom. It came with the tube type steps from the factory but since my mom has a bad hip, she needs a wider step to maintain stability. The second problem was the lack of grip the tube provided even with the flat spot and anti-slip tape, a light dusting of snow and the step was slippery and very unsafe for anyone to use. You have access to industrial stuff and there is a whole range of other step tread and platform material to choose from as well. Things such as stainless waffle plate to actual non-slip open surface tread plate. Most all of these come in stainless steel and aluminum to satisfy various applications and needs. I'm sure wiht your contacts you can get something relatively easily that is safe and also fits a style of design that will be eye appealing too. I just fitted my uncle's minivan with a step made from stainless steel open hole tread plate. Had to fab brackets to mount it but the whole process too under two hours. Had the tread plate here, off falls from another job so materials costs were next to nothing. A good place to start looking is the off road 4x4 and semi-truck specialty shops. These places usually carry a boat load of items that you won't normally find at the local auto parts stores. medium duty truck shops/dealers such as international, ford, sterling, ect usually carry, or can get, a host of different items such as steps that will readily fit smaller vehicles such as pick-ups with little to no modifications being needed. Good luck!
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