Changing headlight unit

[umass021]

My brother recently bought a 2003 4runner and wanted to know how hard it is to change the headlights(not the bulbs the whole unit). I have been researching it and couldn't find much on it. I have read the drivers one can be done but the passenger one is a lot harder. I don't want to have to take off the front bumper to get to that bottom screw. Does anyone know how to change them without doing that. I have looked and it seems very difficult. I wasn't sure if you could maybe go thru the plastic piece hanging in the fender. Any input would be great. Thanks.

 

[momo.75]

Here is a thread that shows how to remove them.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-g...acked-out-headlight-thread-diy-lots-pics.html

 

[gaterose]

I find it easiest to lay on my back under the bumper with a flashlight, you can see the bolt (kinda) from there and it seems to be easier that way IMO.

Definitely not impossible but it can be a PITA getting to that 4th bolt.

I've done it at least 4-5 times now.

 

[eds72]

Aarrgghhh

I know this thread is a bit older but...

Can anyone elaborate on how they removed the 4th bolt on the passenger side? I had read that the drivers side was harder, so removed and blacked out that headlight first. Now I can't get the 4th frigging bolt on the passenger side. I haven't even managed to find a wrench to put on it. Socket driver is too fat, open end wrench too long... there is not much clearance in there in any direction.

Tips?

 

[eds72]

Doh..

Wow, finally figured out that the bolt gets screwed in from the outside!! No wonder I had so much trouble, I was trying to get the wrench into an impossibly small spot. It wasn't too bad at all once I figured it out.

 

[CookieRoe]

Those bolts are a major PITA to get to. Once I took them out, that was it. They never went back on. I've had my retros in/out a couple of times. Never had any issues regarding fit or "shakiness" of the lights.