Pop n Lock Installation Problem

I’m putting a Pop n Lock on my 2016 Tacoma, and have run into a problem. Installation went smoothly until putting everything back together. I can not for the life of me get the two white clips on the passenger side kick plate (pictured below) to pop back in place. YouTube was useless, as everyone posts detailed instructions on taking it apart, but nothing on putting it back together. Any tips on getting this panel back in place?

 

I get the stud with the screw set first, the push the panel towards the outside of the truck. Top first then bottom. Usually snaps right in

 

Thats what I tried, but it wouldn’t snap in. Are these studs oriented correctly?



maybe they’ve gotten turned or something and are facing the wrong way?

 

I think the top one is backwards, it’s hard to tell. Also looks like it’s not snapped in all the way. They should point forward (towards front of truck)

 

If you're sure the fasteners are lined up with the hole, sometimes it requires a quick palm tap to pop them in. Once you get the front eyelet on the post, try to peak behind the panel and see that the studs are lining up with the holes. Assuming everything seems to be lined up, give it a slight pop and then some firm pushes to make sure everything pops into place. They can be a little finicky, but you'll know when you got it right.

Also make sure all of your wiring and harnesses are tucked away as far as possible and not inhibiting the holes.

 

I have tried all of the above suggestions, with no luck. At this point when the little white pieces get even close to the holes they pop off and go flying across the truck as if they were spring loaded. I hope I never learn who designed this accursed fastening system - I would likely do them bodily harm.

 

Can you get the studs to pop in, when ignoring the forward eyelet and screw? That way you can check their alignment.

 

Worse case scenario, swing by the dealership. I'm sure they'd have a tech run out and pop it on for you. Most likely free of charge, as a goodwill gesture.

 

they have specific angle on them, if they fell out, you may have installed one or both backward. take your time, flip them a few times and figure out the puzzle. you can do it. Ski

 

might end up doing this. I’ve tried about every angle/method of installing them I can think of, and nothings working. I’m about due for my 45,000 service and oil change, could probably convince the dealer to pop it back on while it’s in for service.

 

just fiddle with it more. ive taken them off numerious times and i remember one time having the same issue with not getting it lined up correctly.

 

I had one that refused to go in. I just kept trying and eventually it just snapped right in. Why it didn't go the 100 or so times I tried before that I don't know.

 

Yeah, my first time doing this I was about to light the truck on fire. Once you figure it out it's pretty easy and consistent. Hard to help without being there, but don't light your truck on fire.

 

im going to remove mine for for the pop lock also when it gets in but how i get them in.... line it up and then a lateral push toward the fender firewall usually works.

going to the dealership for this is a noob move

 

Have you considered pulling the drivers side to double check correct orientation?

 

I considered it, yes. Was too concerned that I’d end up with two panels I couldn’t get properly reinstalled though if I did that.