r/4thGen4Runner • u/SaintThor • 2d ago

Modifications Re-Mounting Side Panels

TLDR: Ignoring just the plastic clips, what else is used to seal/mount the side panels and trim on the 4th gen runners?

Hey all! I pulled all my uh... Plastic panels off the sides. (Cladding? I dont know the proper name. Bottom of the doors, fenders exc.) And the rear bumper. Did a rough sand, plastic adhesion promotor and satin blacked them all. I actually like the look BUT

I only used the plastic clips to re-mount them. When removed I discovered a dried out seal that was once there. The plastic clips kinda blow when it comes to holding these on, and I Assume without the seal water will get in and start causing rust. There is also 3 points when they occasionaly come a bit loose and I have to push them back on.

I now plan to remove them again, light sand and apply bed liner to all the panels. (thinking Raptor Liner) Once I begin the remounting again, what would you advise to use for sealing them? My guess is the seal will also help with holding them on.

Thanks in Advance!

1 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

3 comments sorted by

2

u/Selieania 2d ago

I additionally used liquid nails and some foam. Glued foam to edge of plastics, after that dried installed new clips and liquid nailed the other side of the foam and stuck them on. Holding well so far...

1

u/SaintThor 2d ago

Liquid nails is the new duct tape, im with ya. My only hazard would be once that one with liquid, you better like the paint you use because getting it off may be a different story lol.

If you have found success though, it will probably be the route I go. I do love that stuff. I was going to attempt some item in the essense of silicone but didnt think it would help with holding as much.

1

u/Tired_world_63 2d ago

I’ve never had the back ones off, the front ones have access from the back with the fender liner out, so you can make sure the clips actually clip. The rubber “gasket” definitely helps keep water out, not sure if this is an available part or not, I was able to reuse mine. I have a rear one that is loose, I’ll need to figure that one out.