Does Removing the Lower Grill Insert Require Removing the Bumper?

[Bluesky 07]

I plan to do the same mesh I used for my Satoshi in my lower grill and hood scoop. I found directions for removing and disassembling the front bumper that seem to say the lower insert is removable and doesn't have to be cut out like the main grill insert does.

Has anyone done mesh in the lower grill on a 4th gen, and/or has anyone removed the lower insert without removing the bumper?

Any insight appreciated.

 

[DarenS]

Check the service manual (sticky at the top of this forum). No bumper removal is necessary.

 

[Morphyne]

I have done both. See thread below for grill. the insert just snaps out. although it might be hard to get the lower grill right without taking the bumper off.

Pics aren't that great. I had to take my bumper cover off to paint it. it wasn't that bad. in my opinion it is easier to take the cover off and beable to work with it and get your grill right than trying to do custom work on your back.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/154972-morphynes-painkiller-build-tread-4.html

 

[iAlex684]

You don't need to remove the bumper to remove the lower grille insert. There are tabs that holds the grille insert on to the bumper. I used a flat head and mainly played around until I can feel alittle play in the grille insert. I believe there are a total of 10 or 8 tabs. I used a lift at my work to be able to be eye level to take it off since I didn't look for any instruction.

 

[blackoutt]

As stated above for the 06-09 bumper, the lower grill insert can be removed easily without removing the bumper. Mine had two screws then was just carefully working all the tabs around the edge out. I have the grill still sitting in my garage and can post a pic of the tab locations if you find you're having a hard time with it.

 

[blackoutt]

Two bolts on the top license plate frame area then big flat clips on the bumper that pop into the grill, slots shown on grill in second pic. 6 clips along the top, 7 along the bottom.