gas tank skidplate removal

I have a 02 xtra-cab 3.4L 4x4 trd and the skidplate for the gas tank is lookin pretty bad... I am wondering if the gas tank will drop if i try to remove the skidplate? I saw a strap wrapped around the tank but have no idea if its attached to the body with the same hardware that holds the skidplate in place. If any of you guys or gals have dropped the skidplate any helpful hints would be appreciated...thanks

 

I need to do the same. My fuel gauge actually stopped working. Im just going to go under there and un bolt every bolt i see holding the skidplate on. It shouldnt drop the tank.

 

I can't remember 100% on Tacomas but the straps are seperate from the skids if I remember right.

 

if I recall correctly -as I have dropped my tank 2x, the skid plate is seperate from the fuel tank.
shouldn't be too difficult to do, and i'd recommend spray on truck bed liner, whih has held up pretty well on my sliders.

 

This is from the factory service manual.