What tools will I need?

I finally have time to work on my 4Runner, and plan on finally installing my TRD PRO grill(yes, with raptor lights), black valances, and new fog lights. I have watched numerous videos on the process, and feel confident I can handle it. But in all the videos, no one gives a good breakdown of the tools needed. I know a 10mm is needed, along with a screwdriver/trim puller for the plastic clips. Is there anything else I may need? Any help will be greatly appreciated!

 

Grab a large dohicky to undo the thingymajig

 

If you don’t have tools, I suggest getting a multi tool set. I can’t think of anything specific for those jobs that you haven’t already listed.
An electrical wiring kit if you’re doing any wiring.
https://youtu.be/GT9XNdfX9zw?si=utli01Rj_zEA_W-U

 

Those are the only things I've seen used. If you have a good magnet light, it helps with the fog light replacement, unless you intend to remove the bumper cover to do that.

 

I do have a basic tool kit, I am just making sure that I have what is needed. lol

 

I have to remove the bumper for the valance install. lol

 

I've seen several people who've replaced the front valance without removing the bumper cover...the rear? Cover has to come off, yes.

 

I just did those upgrades. It sounds like you have all the tools you need.

 

Agreed you don't have to remove the front bumper cover to replace the front valance. It helps if you can do that in warm temperatures...I did mine when it was about 25 degrees F, and the clips were stiff and harder to remove.

The rear cover will have to come off, but it's not that difficult.

 

There is no project that can be accomplished without at least one trip to the hardware store.

 

Make sure to have an extra 10mm.

 

I just swapped front and front and rear valances. I'm very happy I did it myself instead of paying someone.

As far as tools all you need is a 10mm socket and a flat head screwdriver.

REAR (30-40 mins): The bumper has to come off but it is very easy to take it off and put it back on. It is a 30-40 minute job and pretty much dummy proof. Plenty of videos out there.

REAR Pro-tip(s): 1-BEFORE you reattach the bumper, make sure all your clips AND tabs are fully and properly seated. Visually inspect the valance to make sure it is aligned and seated properly. Only after making sure it looks perfect should you reattach the bumper. I failed on this step and had to repeat the entire process. 2-Fully remove the rear mudflaps.... no reason not to do this.

FRONT (40-50 mins): I did not take off the front bumper and I would not recommend doing so. You should definitely remove the upper plastic radiator shroud though... this allows relatively easy access to the top seven and middle two clips. The shroud removes in minutes and is only secured with push clips. The bottom row of clips can easily be reached after removing the plastic shroud in front of the regular ORD skid plate (non-trd pro/regular ORD skid plate version).

FRONT Pro-tip(s): 1-As someone else mentioned, the clips are a bitch to release/remove and it is much easier if they are warm. You'll kill yourself if you try and do this in cold weather. 2-You can remove two additional 10mm bolts underneath the bumper (just left and just right of the two front-facing center bolts on the lower shroud). This will allow you a little bit more room for your fingers to get at the lower clips by pulling down on the lower edge of the valance and sheet metal. 3-use a little stubby flat head screwdriver for additional leverage in pushing down the clips. 4- BEFORE you start re-inserting the clips make sure that the valance is fully and properly seated and aligned and make sure all plastic tabs are inserted through their respective slots.

 

THANK YOU!!! I am removing the front bumper though, I have new Morimoto fog lights to install too. lol

 

I have some general remarks about accumulating tools.
1. Hand tools, specially non-electric hand tools, can last a lifetime. Get the best, because even the crappy ones can last a lifetime. And then you’re stuck with crappy tools for life. Because if you buy crappy tools you will never throw them away. And then they will be displacing the quality tools you should have bought. And years from now you will curse your naive and thoughtless younger self. Maybe I’m projecting a little bit.

2. Don’t buy a big set of tools. No manufacturer makes the best of everything. For example, and all of this is my opinion, in the adjustable wrench category, Bahco is supreme. In the locking plier category no one beats good ol’ Vise Grips. Knipex beats channel lock. See what I mean? Buy quality brands, but don’t let brand loyalty drive the decisions.

3. Not every tool manufacturer that sells tools off a truck makes quality tools. (I’m looking at you Matco.)

Call me crazy but a carefully curated selection of tools gives me joy. Even if it’s someone’s else’s collection. I love to see uncommon tools and ask about them - or even better, common tools that have been modified, and their uses.

 

Don’t forget to double and triple check you completely unplug and unbolt the TSS radar wires and wire bracket when removing the bumper cover. And make sure those wires don’t get pinched when rehanging the bumper cover! Don’t ask how I know! Lol

 

I would agree with all of this. I do have one other point to add, though. Don't be tempted to buy a set of tools that pretty much will be for a one-time use; if you can rent or borrow this type of tool, so much the better. I needed one particular crowfoot wrench when replacing the LCAs on my 2003 Tacoma, and figured why not buy the set:

$55 Neiko 03324A Crowfoot Wrench Set 1/2" and 3/8” Drive, 15 Piece, Metric Crows Foot Wrench Sizes 8mm-24mm, Chrome-Moly Flare Nut Wrench Set

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000N7DHFK?ie=UTF8&th=1

I don't imagine I will ever use one of these again...

 

Hahaha me too.... Rather than buying a single 13mm obstruction wrench for $10, I bought a whole set of S-style obstruction wrenches for $40 to remove one frigging bolt that was hidden on one of the downpipes on my Audi. I'm quite certain i'll never use any of them again.

 

I literally just did this yesterday. 10mm and a screwdriver was all I needed. I also had a crate to rest the bumper covet on when it came off. Wasn’t hard at all. Take off the 3 10mm in the wheel well, 4 10mm underneath and 3 by the hood latch. Go to the wheel week grab and pull.