I have my 1987 owners manual. The manual shows there are 5 retaining clips on the top of the radiator grill and one screw. On the bottom of the radiator grill it shows 4 retaining clips and one screw. To release the retaining clips it shows a diagram and explains to insert a flat blade screw driver between the jaws of the clip and to pry "clockwise".

After that you loosen the 4 headlight retainer screws to replace the headlight.

No special tools except a screw driver.

Best of luck.

 

Thanks. Where in the manual does it show that? I looked in the "BO" (body) section, and there is nothing mentioning the grill. The search function for my manual doesn't work, so I have to know which section in which to look. I would think "body" would be the correct section, but apparently not?

EDIT: I was able to get the grill off. I found where the clips go through the body at the back of the grill. I broke a few of the clips, I think because they were very brittle and stuck in there after 33 years. I'll have to order a few clips (if they are even available).

Thanks again.

 

My '97 Taco was similar with the front plastic grill. Those retaining clips on mine needed to be pushed "in" with a flat blade screwdriver and eased off on each one. Was terrified I would snap them, and I think I did snap one IIRC. Miss that truck.

 

With the grille off I was able to put a torch on that rusty and stripped Phillips head screw. I then used a small flatblade to turn it out. I now have new 4mm diamter x .7 thread x 10mm long screws securing the bezel against the headlamp and the grille is reinstalled. For anyone looking for the size of the bezel screws, the original size is 4mm diameter x .7 thread x 8mm long, but 10mm long or 12 mm long, or even longer still works fine. Looks like I broke two clips and one is missing. The rest of the clips, although a bit abused, still worked to secure the grille. For now I'll order one each of the two clips and see what they look like and get another one later, but all is good now.

The trick to remove the lower clips and one screw is to use a thin screwdriver and lift up slightly on the bottom of the grill to expose the clips or screw, then remove the screw and either use a Phillips screwdriver to push the clips inwards, thus releasing its grip, or a flatblade turning clockwise to do the same.

By the way, the Toyota dealer has much better prices on the headlamp assembly than any parts store, including online stores. Not sure why, as that is usually the opposite of what normally happens. If you don't mind waiting (I waited 2 weeks) to get the headlamp, it will cost around $14 for a Sylvania halogen sealed beam.

Thanks to @sailor and @SFCamry for responding.