OEM bed step install without changing out the bracket

Story: I bought a Toyota bed step on CL. The guys isn't realize the bumper bracket us different than stock. Rather than drive an hour back to him and pay bridge toll, I decided to cut the bracket where it hindered the step from extending. I compared the stock bracket vs the replacement and it's just a cut version. Any hoot the benefit of doing it this way is you don't have to remove the bumper to install, just take a saw to the three thin metal sections. Here's the pic. Note a better handyman could make nicer cuts.

 

Sweet mod and great skills!!

 

Great job, can you send me some photos showing just where you made the cuts. It is unclear in the photos on the forum. I just received the bed step and can see no reason not to use your modifications. Thanks a lot
jkuykendall1@stx.rr.com

 

I too would be interested in knowing exactly where you cut. Great pics just a little unclear what to look for...

 

Facing the drivers side rear of truck, cut the metal bracket forms a triangle opening. Cut the metal bridge that forms the base of the triangle. I think if you cut it all the way to the end it’ll look cleaner than cutting it part way, prob safer too (accidental cuts if you get caught).

 

Thanks a lot. I will use this information and install the bed step. Looks just as strong as the replacement that came with the accessory.

 

So if you had followed the instructions you would have replaced that bracket with one that didn't get in the way of the step, or would there not be a new bracket?

 

Following the instructions you’d have to take off the bumper and replace the bracket with one that came with the step, then put the bumper back.

 

Lehminh: Thank you very much! I just received my step for my 2020 and saw your post/pics. I used a cutoff wheel, took my time, filed off cut edges to smooth finish and painted satin black to keep area from rusting. I had the step installed 15 minutes after that with no disassembly of anything else. I did use the one angled bracket that comes in the kit and connected under one of the top bolts on the step hinge. The place that it attaches to the truck is where the existing brace that you cut still has a bolt at the bottom corner of the chrome bumper. I just put the bracket on top of the bolt sticking up and put a nut on the bolt. Probably not needed since the existing bracket was never removed, but it does provide a bit of extra support.

Anyway, I would NEVER recommend anyone go through all of the hassle of taking the OEM bracket off. Just cut it as he says and if you do a nice job of the cut and finish you will not even know it was fabricated. So easy!

Step works great. Easy in and out of bed.

 

I did the same. Much easier than to take the bumper apart to replace the bracket, which looked like it might be flimsier than the OEM one anyway.
There was a smaller strap bracket with the kit that bolts to the top of the step bracket and to the side of the bumper bracket that I used. It required a little more cutting on the OEM bumper bracket, but that thing is now very sturdy.

 

I installed one on my previous Tundra and it was a pain in the ass. If I ever have to install another one, I will use the cut method.

 

@SC_TRD

 

Gotta love the “Search” function! Found this thread and saved a ton of time and headache! I saw a video on YouTube where a guy did the bracket replacement and what a PITA!

Took 5 min to cut the factory bracket, spray some black paint and 10 min to install the bed step! Great mod and thanks the @lehminh and @torkman for the tips!

 

Hi all.
So I bought the AMP step and took it to my dealership for install while getting the standard service.
Dealer called and said they can’t Instal the step... they retried and “it just didn’t look right” and the box says it’s for a 2016.

after some great customer sevice form RealTruck, I find out that the step “can not” be installed on resin bumpers. (Have a 2019 platinum)

has anyone else had this problem?
any recommendations on alternative steps or even ladder?

appreciate and help.

 

I wouldn’t think it matters because it installs on the frame and doesn’t even touch the bumper. I would see it it fits closed and the opened, if so cut that thin piece out as it shouldn’t affect much. Sometimes part say it’s not made for certain year but it fits fine. Good luck, I use my bed step every time I open the truck bed.

 

No need to have a dealer install - it’s super easy. If they can’t do it, find a new dealer to have service done.

 

The dealer doesn't know what they are talking about. The resin bumpers require an extra step ; either replace the bumper bracket, which is a pain in the rear, and you have to order the model number that includes the bracket, or, what most of us do, is cut the existing bracket - only a small piece needs to be cut out to allow the step to fold down. If you do not have the tools (grinder) and due to inexperience don't want to cut on your truck, then you can order the correct step that includes the bracket, and try that. However, keep in mind that there is a model that folds open to the side, instead of diagonally backwards. This was done to avoid the bracket issue, but it is not ideal. The step ends up on the side of the truck (below the end of the bumper) instead of at the back where you can easily step on the tailgate.

But, to answer your question, it can be installed on your truck. See first few posts of this thread

 

This thread was just what I needed. I tried installing thr AMP bed and as I was removing the rear bumper brackets I realized the whole bumper needed to come off in order to remove the whole bracket. I will definitely try this method when I get a chance. Thank yoi everyone!

 

I just installed this and went with the cutting method rather than replacing the bracket. Cutting was easy... hardest part for me was unscrewing the 2 bolts where the step attaches to the truck. The space in there is so limited it was hard for me to get enough leverage but i finally did with my 19 mm combination wrench. Pretty tough install considering all factors, but the bed step is awesome and I know I’m going to be using it all the time. Pretty pumped.

 

Nice job I love my bed step and the bracket mod is the way to go!

 

Thanks for the posts. I decided to do the same thing and it came out great. No bumper disassemble required!

 

Now that I’m looking at the sharp shaved edge, I have some of those door edge guards that can fit over the metal to protect against my clumsy butt from cutting myself on the future.

 

Thanks for the write up , I added OEM bed step without removing the factory bracket also without using the shim and it was a breeze .

 

I'm looking at adding a bed step on my 2018 Platinum. The parts website says this won't fit, but based on what I've read here, I'm hoping it will. Can anyone confirm?

https://www.*****************.com/o...f7Fd4fLl68M_7q4GVR76omahULpQoUykaAv0pEALw_wcB

 

Link doesn’t work for me but there should be no reason why the bed step won’t work for a 2018. Must be a website glitch.

 

I added the edge guard I had from the motorcycle fairing and it made it much safer to work.

 

Lehminh, what a great mod! I just traded my Taco for a 2021 SR5 and knew I had to get a bed step. Dealership was about $60 cheaper than AMP Research site, but no instructions in the box. Google gave me the AMP instructions and the youtube video of the guy who went by the instructions and removed the bumper cap. Looked like a real PITA. Then I saw this thread. 10 minutes with the angle grinder, file and paint the exposed metal and the step went on perfectly. Even used the support strap. Great idea for an easy install!

 

@aark12 Is your step the OEM Toyota version?

I also wanted to ask, if not to much trouble could you post a pic with the step in the up position? It seems I remember seeing pics of some trucks with the step looking a bit low and crooked.

 

I ordered the OEM step for my 2019 Tundra and downloaded the installation instructions. After reading thru the instructions I got under the truck and quickly realized/decided that the mod of the existing factory bracket was the way to go. I used my sawzall with a thick metal cut blade and it worked perfect. I then filed down the sharp edges and applied a coat of flat black rustoleum to protect. All said and done in about 45 minutes or so. Definitely the way to go. Here are some pics: