Front end bra/mask installation difficulty

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by mondokj, Aug 11, 2005.

  1. mondokj

    mondokj Junior Member

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    I have a 2005 Package 6, with the HID headlamps.

    I purchased the "official" Toyota Front End Mask, and tried to install it last night. I am having one problem.

    There are two tabs on the mask (1/2" X 8" or so) near each headlights. According to the directions, you're supposed to tuck these in on the side and bottom of the headlight assembly.

    Easy enough to describe, but the seam between the body panel and the headlight assembly is really tight! I tried a screwdriver to pry the surfaces apart, and loosening the headlight top screw, but nothing seems to help.

    Any suggestions on how to get those pestky tabs tucked in??

    -Keith J.
     
    #1 mondokj, Aug 11, 2005
  2. Bill Lumbergh

    Bill Lumbergh USAF Aircraft Maintainer

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    Same here! I had to fully remove the top headlight bolt (10mm), then you'll find you have a heck of a lot of headlight play to work with. It helps to have someone hold the headlight up off the fender while you cram the tab under the frame, then push down on the headlight, push in on the tab, and tighten the bolt you removed.

    Go Toyota with the tight clearances!
     
    #2 Bill Lumbergh, Aug 12, 2005
  3. BMcGraw

    BMcGraw Member

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    Put away that screwdriver! :mrgreen: All you have to do is start the tab "insertion" at about the 7 o'clock position on the left (passenger) side and at the 5 o'clock position on the right. It's a tight fit but it will go. Then it will slide right on up without a hitch.

    Hope that helps!
     
    #3 BMcGraw, Aug 12, 2005
  4. Bill Lumbergh

    Bill Lumbergh USAF Aircraft Maintainer

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    I tried starting the tab as you said and it just wouldn't go. The clearance between the headlight and the fender was absolutely zero. Removing the headlight bolt made it much simpler.

    Wish mine was as easy as your's. :)
     
    #4 Bill Lumbergh, Aug 12, 2005
  5. galaxee

    galaxee mostly benevolent

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    ours was the same way. ugh. pain in the butt. we ended up loosening the headlight assembly too.
     
    #5 galaxee, Aug 12, 2005
  6. BMcGraw

    BMcGraw Member

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    "If I have to come over there...." On second thought, no comment... :roll:
     
    #6 BMcGraw, Aug 12, 2005
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