How to remove bolt securing running boards?

[bonzo37027]

I removed my factory-installed running boards yesterday, and all went well except that I cannot remove the 12mm bolt from the rear mount on each side. The rear mounts have a bolt extending down through a large hole on the underside of the frame. It seems as though there is a flange or large washer the prevents the hex head of the bolt from being pulled down through the hole in the frame.

Does anyone know how to remove these two bolts (one on each side)? Right now I tightened a 12mm nut with a large washer to the end of the bolt to keep it from rattling around.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Jim

[naturoses]

Originally Posted by bonzo37027

I removed my factory-installed running boards yesterday, and all went well except that I cannot remove the 12mm bolt from the rear mount on each side. The rear mounts have a bolt extending down through a large hole on the underside of the frame. It seems as though there is a flange or large washer the prevents the hex head of the bolt from being pulled down through the hole in the frame.

Does anyone know how to remove these two bolts (one on each side)? Right now I tightened a 12mm nut with a large washer to the end of the bolt to keep it from rattling around.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Jim

Do you have a pic of factory installed running board? I'm planning to buy one if it helps...

Do you need to remove already installed mudguards?

Is drilling required if factory (Toyota) made?

Thanks

[konde.koma]

Originally Posted by naturoses

Do you have a pic of factory installed running board? I'm planning to buy one if it helps...

Do you need to remove already installed mudguards?

Is drilling required if factory (Toyota) made?

Thanks

There should be a flange that is connected perpendicular to the bolth. One side should be shorter than the other. You have to get the shorter side to the edge of the hole and tilt the bolt to get it out. It basically looks like the letter "T" with one end shorter than the other.

EDIT: I think there may also be another hole that has a plug next to that hole. If you remove the plug you should be able to use both hands in helping you tilt the bolt out.

[black_sedan]

Slightly off topic but if I have lighted running boards, which wires do I tap into?

[bonzo37027]

I don't know if you need to remove the existing mudguards. My HL came with running boards but no mudguards. Also, I don't know if drilling is required. When I removed all the screws and bolts, they seemed to come out of existing holes in the frame/underside. I would talk to the Toyota dealer parts department to make sure, however. The running boards mount to the brackets easily (2 screws per bracket, 3 brackets per running board), but getting the brackets on/off the frame was more difficult. I was doing it without a lift however. If you can get underneath the car, it will be MUCH easier.

[bonzo37027]

If anybody wants to see a photo of the boards, send me an email to jimgrout@comcast.net.

[TrailDust]

Originally Posted by black_sedan

Slightly off topic but if I have lighted running boards, which wires do I tap into?

If I remember correctly that was discussed a few months ago. You may want to do a search of the HL forum to see if you can locate that thread.

[black_sedan]

Originally Posted by TrailDust

If I remember correctly that was discussed a few months ago. You may want to do a search of the HL forum to see if you can locate that thread.

I'm still digging. No luck as to which exact wires. Only thing I found was that the OEM lighted boards are wired to the dome lights.

[TrailDust]

Originally Posted by black_sedan

I'm still digging. No luck as to which exact wires. Only thing I found was that the OEM lighted boards are wired to the dome lights.

You might try sending a private message to forum member JMSinMD who put LED lighting on his running boards as shown in this thread. Maybe he can supply you with diagrams or at least a description of the wiring for running board lights.