What are these tabs for?

Hi guys,

New owner of a used 4Runner here. I was changing the oil today and noticed these tabs on back end of the rear skid plate. What should be attached to this?

 

Nothing, unless you have a Limited, or a Limited derivative, i.e. Nightshade, and maybe Sport. They have a small plate that attaches to those tabs. Every other trim looks like yours.

 

Hope this helps.

https://www.4runners.com/threads/factory-2021-orp-lower-engine-cover.26954/#post-371434

 

Thank you guys. Since we are talking about skid plates. How the heck do you remove your front skid plate? I had to just leave it hanging for the oil change which was a pain since I usually slide in under the front.

 

After removing the plastic, I loosen the front bolts a couple turns, then break the rear ones loose. Supporting the skids with my shoulder, I completely remove the front bolts, then gradually remove the rears and turn my shoulder until the back edge is down and the front is hanging from the metal taps. Finally, I lift it up and out to clear the tabs from the slots.

The first time it seemed heavy, but it really isn't. Just doing it a couple times helps to understand where it wants to go and where resistance is coming from. Taking a close look at the tabs and slots when they're apart can help.

 

This is an install video, but shows how to remove the oem skid plate. What I don't know is if something was different in 2011...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FInKfkRBajg

 

this link isn’t working for me. So does the front of the skid plate need to come off before the rear side? I tried manipulating it in every way and the thing just did not want to come off.

 

The rear has to swing down a bit before you can get the front tabs out of their slots.

 

Skid plate removal from 0:32 - 2:15

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FInKfkRBajg