New Guy with very 1st 4Runner questions

[backstrap]

Hey Everyone, I've been poking around on this site for a couple of weeks as I was waiting for my new (and first) 4Runner. Seems like a really cool bunch of folks with a bunch of great info and ideas...

So, I finally tracked down the 4Runner with everything I wanted (and then some). My mandatories were 2005 (great deals), 4x4, V8, 3rd row seats for the inevitability of carting around a bunch of kids, and the air bags option... much easier said than done -- I went through 3 brokers, multiple dealers, and a lot of websites before some smallish broker found it with the 8 hour deadline I gave him (I had to make a decision on another being held for me). It got delivered on Friday night!

Anyway, I'm stoked, I even got the grey color I like best... but, finally the questions: it's got some stuff I'd personally rather not have.
1. hood protector (seems to be little "stickers behind it?)
2. Running boards
3. Rear spoiler

Does anyone know how, or if, this stuff can be removed without too much trouble? Any market for the parts?

Thanks in advance, and looking forward to being a member.

 

[TranceKrayz]

the hood protector and running boards are easily removed. Other members on this forum have removed theirs, you can do a search to find out how.

As for the spoiler, you cant do that without having to fill in the holes that are drilled into the tailgate.

 

[Mark86]

The only way you can remove the spoiler without a problem is if it was installed at the port. If there is a red brake light behind the spoiler, then it shouldn't be a problem (I don't know if there will be any holes). Just remember to connect the extra brake light!

 

[KMX3060]

If it is a factory spoiler and you take it off, you will not have the high mount stop light anymore. The liftgate for the vehicles equipped with factory spoilers doesn't have the hole punched for the light.

 

[sharp4runr]

Yup the running board is held on by 6 screws on each side. Takes about 15 minutes to take them off.

Welcome to the boards!

 

[TranceKrayz]

Oh yea I forgot about the high mount stop light......good thing we have such intelligent members here at T4R.ORG!

 

[backstrap]

Thanks

Thanks everyone, looks like I'll leave the spoiler on for at least a bit (it might even be growing on me) probably take the running boards off, and still looking into taking off the hood protector... it seems basic - just a few bolts, BUT, there are these paint matched "stickers" right behind every connect point on top of the hood, and I can't tell if they're to protect the paint or to cover up some holes... anyone know???

I did a search on the forum "removing hood protector" and got one match with a ton of other links to posts, and couldn't find any actual info...

Thanks again.

 

[GYoter]

They are most likely just clear protective stickers so the brackets dont scratch the paint. No holes. Shouldnt be a problem. The running boards are simple to remove. And id say leave the rear spoiler. When i see one without it, it definitely looks like something is missing.

Oh yeah, congrats on the purchase and welcome.

 

[backstrap]

GYoter -- thanks, I'll take a closer look, hopefully clear stickers is all it is... and really the whole car gets better and better looking... but I'll tell you, I read about your wheels and really like the looks... I even called the place I've had some other powdercoating done, but they're asking $65 a wheel... then I'm thinking of the costs to disassemble and reassemble etc... hmmm... we'll see...