Grill Insert Replacement Question 2012 CrewMax Limited

I have purchased a replacement grill/insert for my 2012 CrewMax. I am replacing the chrome with a blacked out grill. There is a clip/rod that attaches the grill insert to the hood latch that has to come off, along with the 10mm bolts holding the insert in place. I have attached pictures of the clip/rod. How do I detach this piece after I take out the 10mm bolts so I can install the new grill insert. I’m dumber than a box of rocks mechanically, please help! Thanks.

 

I don't have a 2012, but are you sure that piece has to come off just to replace the grill insert? Looks like if you remove those 10mm bolts the grill should come off

 

Leave the j latch and cable connected to the hood.. on the back of the grill, just behind/below the Toyota logo in your picture, remove the 2 bolts on the bottom that secure the the handle to the grill insert. Your new grill insert should have a similar bracket molded into it where you can reattach.

 

Thanks!!!

 

Where did you get your grill replacement? Does it light up? Pics please

 

I’ll post pics when the parts come in. Thanks.

 

For anyone who does want to take that off, follow the rod to the top and there's a plastic clip where the top of the rod takes a 90 degree bend. If you twist that clip off clockwise, the rod will slide out.

 

Thanks so much all!