Buyer Beware: KTJO 4X4 Driver's Side Grab Handles w/ A Pillars, HUD, and Bowl Lights

Yep, that is the one.

 

With the bolt/thread alignment issues experienced so far, is a self-centering u-nut going to help or make the install process even more of a pain?

 

That's exactly what I used. With that nut in place, starting the lower bolt was actually easier than starting the upper bolt. The upper bracket is already threaded, which gives you less leeway.

In fact, if you have problems finding the exact angle to thread the bolt into the upper bracket, rather than bend the bracket, you could ream the hole to a larger size and use a U nut there too.

 

I commented on KTJO's Facebook post and she replied that mine was processed and shipped. Also got an email from Stamps.com that it is in the system. Now to see how long before it gets here.

 

I came across this video on You Tube and just thought I'd throw it out here.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JEBT6X6z-t8&t=5s

It shows someone installing an OEM handle using the existing A pillar trim.

 

This had been discussed in the previous thread. The passenger-side handle has a wider hole spacing. Part II of the dude's video shows he had drilled another hole in the A-pillar sheetmetal bracket.

 

Well, he made it work and an OEM handle is only $45.

 

The pucker factor is greatly increased by carving up the A pillar exactly and drilling a new hole in the frame. Way above my pay grade.

 

I admire the YT poster's ingenuity but there's no way this would be for me. I would go this route if I could make it look OE, but without the pillar risers that are built in to the OE-equipped grab handle pillar (or KTJO's), it just looks off. There's no way I wouldn't get in my truck everyday and look at each A-pillar and stare at the difference. OCD would drive me crazy.............

 

Or that time you messed up the pricing on the dual color/brightness dome lights. You didn’t request the additional $$$.
Not the case here.

 

There are many more choices if you don't care about appearance or symmetry, for example this FJ billet handle that doesn't need you to hog out the OEM A-pillar panel:



Or this "soft" Jeep handle:

 

That FJ handle fits the clip spacing?

 

6.5" center to center. What's the 3rd gen Tacoma spacing?



Apparently on the FJ, the front and ceiling grab handles are the same spacing:



Wonder if the ceiling grab handles on double cabs would fit the A-pillar?

 

On the other hand, some people will like the fact that the color, texture and long term durability are a perfect match. And others who are concerned with safety or visibility will like the fact that it doesn't stick out quite as far. It all depends on what is important to you.

 

Off topic, but USPS is a shit show right now. My last 5 prescription orders went to other cities before finally landing in my home town. They're supposed go to Orlando before coming here to Satellite Beach. Mine went from Orlando to other Florida cities, as well as Mobile Alabama and someplace in Georgia. My wife's were received in Aurora Il by USPS on Dec 21 and then sat there for 10 days before beginning their journey (supposed to be out for delivery today )

Now back to our regularly scheduled program.

 

I have no idea how he figured out where to cut his holes. I guess if you screw up, there should be plenty of spare A pillars around from people installing the KTJO handle.

 

I preach that story almost every day to my team. People have a reasonable expectation that their transaction will go smooth, but it how you react when things go wrong that are the true measure of customer satisfaction. Successful business accept responsibility and find ways to make it right. Once your reputation goes bad, it is almost impossible to get it back.

 

Still in transit, arriving late...

 

I just measured the hole spacing on my 2nd gen A-pillar grab handles. Both driver and passenger sides came in at 20 cm (~7.875"). I guess that means the lower bracket on 3rd gens isn't carried over, but rather welded at a new position just to take the plastic clip?

 

Nice. I will try to measure top side, but I ain't pulling if off any more.

Interesting.