The Hooks on the Front Skid Plate...

...and I had a little argument. So I bent them over out of frustration (never could get these both to line up and engage the slots).



So I modified the two center mounting points as such:



So I leave those two bolts in place, just loosened a little. Remove the other three (plus the three thread forming screws for the front bumper tabs), slide it forward and off. With the two center bolts in place, you can remove all of the rest of the fasteners without wrestling with the danged thing.

To re-install, slip the front edge of the skid plate under the three bumper tabs, move it forward a bit and up to align the slots with the loosened bolts. Slide rearward and the two bolts will hold the skid plate in place while you install the rest of the three bolts, then the three thread forming screws for the bumper tabs.

Eezee pezee.

Dan

 

I wish it was a skid plate. I had to order my 17 DC after test driving a demo 2wd tundra. paperwork stated front skid plate and fuel tank skid plate. I was expecting hefty skid plates. These are more of rock/dirt undercarriage protection. Was a little disappointed when I got up underneath the truck.

 

RCI offers legit steel or aluminum plates with oil filter door access. Glad I got mine!

 

Really like the idea. The skid plate removal is the one thing I hate the most about changing the oil on the Tundra.

 

Yeah, me too (except for the oil filter mess). At 70 years old, I'm not as limber as I used to be and every bit helps.

Dan

 

Just had mine off for the first time when i did the undercoat,..What a PITA! Also snapped one of those plastic inserts that hold the bottom of the bumper secured, not a great design for something as simple as a shield.

 

I fought the stock plate and decided to upgrade to the TRD skid...I have had to fight it too. Best answer would have been to keep the stock plate and mod it with a door like some others have done.

 

That's great but if you ever take it to a shop and they have to remove it, I would let them know. Those hooks support the weight while removing the bolts if you are doing it by yourself. I could see someone getting hit in the head.....

 

The mod is intended for the DIY folks. If one takes there Tundra in for service that requires removal of the skid plate, let them fight the hooks.

Dan

 

I broke one of mine the first time I removed the skid plate also. It is a really poor choice of fastener. I bought a bag of replacements from the dealer and haven't broken one since.

Dan

 

I was very close to doing the same thing (modifying stock plate with oil filter access hole). It's a bit of work to do that successfully and in addition, I value the removal so I can totally inspect the underside to make sure nothing needs attention (coolant leaks for instance).

Dan

 

I believe Toyota refers to it as a "Splash Plate".

Many have cut a square hole in them to remove the oil filter. Not real difficult.

 

A lot to be said for keeping an eye out for leaks.