I asked this question a few months ago before replacing mine. The answer was to go with the oem replacement. I'm glad I did. It looks brand new from underneath. I really don't think the slip on would save that much time and effort. It does keep you away from the floor patch piece and the cab mount nut, but that really wasn't all that bad a job. It is involved, though. If you aren't already a good welder with proper welding experience this is good practice! I guess you could rivet it on but its not really the best way. If you don't have the time and money to invest in a welder, learn how to weld, etc. you could get by with a slip on and rivets. Just hope nobody looks under your truck when you try and sell it someday. I would have a hard time convincing myself to buy a truck if I saw that.