2007 Toyota Tundra Installation Report by WileETundra

2007 Toyota Tundra Double Cab 5.7L V8 Limited
Pyrite Mica, Standard Bed, 20" Alloy Wheels

Owner: WileETundra

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Installation Report: Hood Protector

Project Description
I drive at least 60% on the highway in excess of 20,000 miles per year. Many highways are rural southern roads with lots of bugs during most of the year so the front end of the truck tends to get lots of splatter. I have tried all sorts of products from waxes, paint sealants, spray-on lubricants, leather bras, etc. but in my experience nothing works as well as a properly designed hood protector. I had considered the 3M Clear Tape option but that is expensive, hard to find a quality installer, and it would not deflect debris up and away from the windshield. Unfortunately there weren't many hood protectors on the market for the new model truck when I was shopping but I did find several models including Lund and FormFit. After a lengthy comparison I decided on the Toyota factory accessory because it had the best mounting style without a bunch of bump-pads or connectors, it had a nice clean smooth appearance, and it used a low-profile design which extended out over the headlights.

Photos
(click on any photo to see a larger version)

Parts & Cost

Toyota part # PT427-34070 which includes everything you need. I paid $125 plus shipping from Wesley Chapel Toyota, 5300 Eagleston Blvd, Wesley Chapel, FL, 33543, 813-407-5973, ebaysales@wesleychapeltoyota.com.

Tools
(just the major items, not a complete list)

Socket wrench
Torque wrench
Metric sockets
Box wrenches

Install Process

Remove the black plastic grill insert from the top of the grill.
Remove a few bolts and loosen a few others on the front grill - the accessory instruction sheet will show you which ones.
Attach two metal mounting brackets into existing holes underneath the hood - one bracket on each side near the outer edges.
Gently pry the top edge of the front grill out away from the hood to create a gap of roughly 1/4".
Wash the front edge of the hood and top of the grill and dry it thoroughly.
Apply the included double-sided adhesive tape to the front edge of the hood behind the top edge of the grill.
Slide the hood protector down into the gap and align it with the mounting brackets.
Mount the hood protector, attach it to the mounting brackets, and press it back against the double-sided tape.
Reinstall the front grill bolts and tighten to factory torque ratings.
Reinstall the black plastic grill insert.

Total Time: ~3 hours including prep and cleanup

Comments

Tape: Take your time installing the tape. Don't pull the grill away too far or you could break the plastic retaining clips which would have to be ordered from the dealer for replacement. I used the smooth narrow end of a wooden kitchen spoon to hold the grill away from the hood and then I used a wooden popsicle stick to press the tape down into the gap and press it into place on the hood.
Torque: This is one of those times that a torque wrench is invaluable. The grill is plastic so if you tighten the bolts too much then you will crack or break it.
On the road: This does an excellent job of keeping the bugs, stones, leaves, etc. off of the hood and it even reduces the debris that strikes the windshield. It is easy to wash and looks good.

Disclaimer: this information has been shared for entertainment purposes only. The ideas, methods, parts, and products represented may not be compatible or safe for your vehicle or driving circumstances. The author is not responsible for inaccuracies, errors, omissions, misuse, etc. No guarantees, warranties, or support are provided or implied. Use this information at your own risk.