thanks for the input guys. it will probably be a month or two until I do anything about the bumper or the sliders.
I will have to look for some sliders that attach to the frame, mostly because that sill by the drivers door does have some rust. I hadnt really looked at how those RT ones mount. I do like the usefulness of the step though. hmmm, I'll have to see what I can find and will chase down some of these recommendations.
oh, and FWIW, the previous owner left me with the reason why the sliders are needed - some nice door dents from not having them:
