The Metal Tech 4x4 website includes detailed instructions on the install. Since these sliders are fully KDSS compatible, special care must be taken to loosen, but not remove, several components along the frame.
The additional bracket on the rear drivers side allows your KDSS lines to stay put under the slider, while still maintaining excellent contact with the vehicle.
I jotted a few additional notes down during my install:
- Remove all bolts on drivers side so you have room to work. It’s a very tight fit.
- Leave everything loose until you’re sure it fits the way you want then tighten
- If you choose to re-use your OEM trim, take off a little at a time when cutting. It won’t go back on ;)
I didn’t include detailed instructions on re-using your original trim under the sliders for a few reasons:
First, the OPOR sliders fit VERY tight (they were designed to be used without the OEM trim), so they push on the trim a little, making it bow out in a few spots. This means more ground clearance, but isn’t a perfect fit.
Second, cutting the plastic with a reciprocating saw is not an exact science. Getting the trim separated from the original steps involved a few adult words, so YMMV.
Since the GX has built in puddle lights, I chose to replace the OEM bulbs with inexpensive waterproof LED lights. I used the original harness and soldered on be new lights, then shrink wrapped everything. The double sided tape that come with the lights would never hold up, so I used the very good 3M Automotive decal tape. The Metal Tech 4x4 sliders provide the perfect mounting spot, so hopefully theses lights hold up well over time. The next step is to wire a switch so they can be used as rock lights ;)
So far I've lifted the GX using the sliders a couple of times, and there is no bending or evidence of any issue.
These bolt-on sliders will provide the protection we need when exploring in our GX-460, were easy to install, and look great.
You can find these sliders on the Metal Tech 4x4 site for under $700 (at time of writing).
