Removing Predator Tube Steps from 2021 DoubleCab

Just got a new 2021 doublecab equipped with the Predator tube steps. Didn't want the steps but given how scarce Tundras are at the moment, I had to buy the truck. Gonna remove them this weekend.

Question is this: if i remove the predator tube steps, do i need to replace the bolts? Do they secure any other parts of the truck? Or can I just remove the 16 bolts and give them to whomever I sell the steps to?

If its necessary to reinstall the bolts, should I use the same ones, or a shorter length? I saw a post somewhere about the tube steps being supplied with longer bolts.

Thanks for any wisdom you can share.

 

Welcome your first post

 

Welcome to the forum..

They have no other purpose than to bolt on steps from what I remember when installing my amp steps.
My amps steps only have 2 brackets, my OEM tubes had 3.
I just got under the truck and I see I have bolts in the unused holes.
So those where from the OEM tubes.
I tried to sell my OEM steps, then I tried to give them away, and in the end, I put them out for trash pickup after being in my garage for year.

I would try to thread one back in the hole and stop if it bottoms out.
If not, stick them back in.
Only reason I can see to put them back in would be to keep the holes clean in case you want to install different steps in the future..

But as you stated, if you sell your steps, you probably want to include the bolts.
If you just want the holes plugged up, buy some shorter bolts, they shouldn't be too hard to find..

 

I was able to get my dealer since my LunaRock is not built yet to remove them. There are nicer and cheaper ones out there. But I agree with the one post I would still put bolts in the holes to keep them clean in case you decide to add a set of steps down the road.

 

Thanks guys. I think you confirmed what I was expecting to find. I will definitely put some bolts in the holes, as you suggested.

 

When I went to install my after-market ones, all of the holes already had bolts in them. I had to pull them out to install the ones that came with the steps. As others said, having something in there will keep the holes from getting filled with crap.

 

I pulled my Predator boards off yesterday to begin installing powered boards. I used an impact gun. Supported one end with a plastic storage container and went to town. You definitely want eye protection as your laying down and dirts flying. Took maybe 5 minutes in total.
I'm selling the bolts with the boards. Two of the four locations are already used for the powered board brackets, so I don't have a concern with the other holes remaining open.

 

so for those of you that are pulling yours off, where ya located?