I've searched the forums, but I've not found step by step instructions on removing my '95 4Runner's headlight assembly. I even looked at HID install forum posts, but didn't find anything helpful. The headlight had a hole in the glass and now has water to be drained. I patched the hole with a clear waterproof adhesive (better than silicone).

Some forum posts have suggested I have to remove the grill, and I hate to do that and break the clips. I'll then have to drive around with no grill until I get to the stealership.

Help!

 

You do have to remove the grill. There is no way around it. Just be real careful and use a long slim common screwdriver to undo the clips. I have removed mine many times and have only broken a few of the clips.

 

Yep, the grill has to come off. Remove the parking lights first though. I broke most of my grill's clips during my trans cooler install. No big deal, the parking lights still hold the grill in place.

 

yep, take the grille off.

I only had a few clips break and it hold on perfectly fine with only like 2 clips.
Dont forget the headlight bezels are bolted to that which are attached to the side markers.
It all keeps it in place

Or you could drop the bumper

 

Hey Wiseguy, I'm confused . . . you say you patched the hole already? Then the assembly is still in place? Then why remove it?

If you DO have to remove the assembly, then yes the grill has to come out. If you still have the owners manual it shows it step-by-step. But if you're only replacing the bulb you don't have to remove the grill. I did that once, then discovered that if you try hard enough and unbolt a few things, you can replace a bulb from behind the assembly.

 

I managed to replace one of the sealed beam headlights on my last truck without removing the grill, but it was a PITA and i scratched the heck out of the headlight bezel. Did one on the 4runner by removing grill, and just bought the clips before hand. Easy fo Sheazy!

 

Probably to drain that water that was mentioned.

 

Yep; I had my own aquarium in that headlight, about 1.5 inches deep and needing to be drained and cleaned of the algae growing inside. I tried to take off the grill without removing my pushbar and Hellas, but they had to go too. What a PITA. On the plus side, the new silverstars look great and really light up the night. While I've got the grill off, I'm adding some new airhorns. Clips were broken in the removal process, but I'll wait and see how much the grill moves when reinstalled before buying new clips.

 

oh, and dont drop your headlight