I plan on making a full write up of this on this post once I figure out how to actually complete the swap. As of now I am looking for guidance as I have not been able to find answers searching the forum.
I currently have a 04' Sport Edition 4 Runner with the 03-05 grille. I have already upgraded the headlights and trim, as well as put on a Demello Offroad bumper for the 06-09 model.
I attempted the swap a couple of days ago and knew that the Hook Auxiliary Catch may need to be extended, but what I did not prepare for was the metal bar that went the entirety of the base of the 03-05 grille. Upon trying to switch this to the 06-09 grille, the bar was not only too short with the ends that flare up not reaching the sides of the inside of the grille, but also none of the holes lined up with the holes on the grille.
Hook Auxiliary Catch
03-05: 5355035010
06-09: 5355035020
If anyone went through with this upgrade and got the 06-09 grille to work on their 03-05 vehicle, your advice and pictures would be greatly appreciated.
For Reference, here is my vehicle with the 04' Grille
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2004 Sport Edition v6 4wd, 180k+ miles
My Build Thread:
CBR's Build Thread
My Write-ups:
How to Manually Release Rear Hatch with Pictures