I have a 97 Suburban with step rails on both sides to make it easier for passengers to get in and out. I think the rail is after market but am not sure because though I bought the rig young, it wasn't new and these side rails were on there when I bought it. Anyway, the vehicle has developed an annoying cricket sounding chirp when going down the road and a bump is hit and the sound is coming from the rear mount of this rail where it mounts to the frame.

Anyone have experience with these rails to know what kind of 'grommet' might be in there? I'm assuming a rubber grommet may be at the mounting point which has worn down causing this 'chirp'. Also, if you look at the image below, the white arrow points to the small plastic 'rivet' that holds the "Better Built" black pad in place along this rail. I'd love to find some replacement 'rivets' but haven't had much luck in finding a source. TIA

http://home.nctv.com/ajns/steprail.jpg

 

I guess there may be some Rails that use Grommets, but I haven't seen any so far. I think you need to do a general tightening up on the mounting bolts (maybe with some penetrating oil) and replace any bad bolts with new.

A Snap Rivet will put that Pad back in place.