Sunroof removal help

[chester4Run]

I'm working on the 2004 SR5 sunroof, trying to remove it because the sunroof frame is rotten (replacement inbound). I think there are four torx bolts holding the sunroof to the mechanism. I removed two plastic pieces from the sides of the sunroof that hide the mechanism, and there is another plastic trim like piece on each side covering the front torx bolt and partially covering the rear. I can't get this to pop free, and I'm trying not to break it. Has anybody removed this and have any tips? I haven't found a good video for the 4th gen sunroof removal (other than dropping the headliner and removing the whole mechanism which I'd like to avoid). This one is operating fine so I'd like to replace just the glass (and metal frame it comes in). Thanks in advance!

 

[chester4Run]

I decided to break them and see what was what. They're held in by clips, and I can't see a way to get the old brittle plastic to release without snapping these. They also don't seem very important aesthetically since they're mostly covered by another trim piece that is easily removable. Here's a picture of the back of them (showing clips) for posterity.

Once removed the torx are exposed (appear corrosion-free) and removing those looks like it will allow me to remove the sunroof.

 

[chester4Run]

Also for posterity, here are the part numbers

63218-35030
63217-35020

They're roughly $40 each, so not worth it for me.

 

[mcl4runner]

I have the same problem. sunroof frame is rotting out. 2007 4runner SR5.

Where did you find parts? Also, how much of the assembly need to be replaced (ie is the glass, it's gasket, and the retraction mechanism is salvageable?)

Thank you
mcl

 

[chester4Run]

I have the same problem. sunroof frame is rotting out. 2007 4runner SR5.

Where did you find parts? Also, how much of the assembly need to be replaced (ie is the glass, it's gasket, and the retraction mechanism is salvageable?)

Thank you
mcl

In my case everything is salvageable except the window and window frame. I called around to 4 junk yards within two hours drive and struck out. I bought a rust free replacement from eBay.

 

[UFLaw98]

Reviving this thread as I am in the same position as the OP. I found this video of removal of the clips and glass on a GX470 which allegedly has the same glass and mounts as our 4th gen 4Runners. https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=XceLiIAsRttdLoku&v=yRDaWl8cmfc&feature=youtu.be

 

[Drakethefirst]

If you are interested I did a video on my 4runner on replacing the glass and removing the plastic trims...which broke very easily. I am going to see if I can 3d print some new ones, 40 bucks is way too much for a new set of just one when you have both an inner and outer piece. https://youtu.be/RXBhswfl4Dw

 

[88Center]

Download Toyota Repair Manual here

https://www.toyota-4runner.org/3895755-post7.html

Open the html file in a web-browser, then search for one of these files. They are located next to each other, so just search for the top one.

Sliding Roof System: Parts Location, Initialization
Sliding Roof System: Problem Symptoms Table, On-Vehicle Inspection
Sliding Roof Housing: Components, Removal, Inspection
Sliding Roof Housing: Installation

There are also wiring diagrams if you search for 'moon roof'.