5th Gen 4Runner step tube removal

[Jonny G]

Hey all, I removed the Toyota designed predator step tubes from my 5th Gen 4Runner the other day. It appears that these are mounted to the underside of the body, and not the chassis/frame. I'm sure other people have removed these or the running boards as well in order to add sliders, new step tubes or, like in my case, remove them for better clearance and not destroy the aluminum tubing.

Wondering if I should put the bolts back into the holes with an additional larger washer, or find some sort of plugs to keep water and contaminants from getting in this area now that the bolts and step tubes are removed. Any suggestions, or has anyone done this? Will it pose any issues if I leave the threaded holes open?

Thanks for any advice.

 

[Kris022]

For me personally, I put the bolts back and put that anti seize compound on the bolt threads. No issues.

 

[Jonny G]

For me personally, I put the bolts back and put that anti seize compound on the bolt threads. No issues.

Thanks for the info Kris!

 

[Horse Soldier]

Kris had my same answer.