What to put in bolt holes after removing steps?

Today I took the side steps off my truck. I’m looking for something to plug the holes where the bolts were so they won’t get caked with mud and water. Plastic clips, some different coated bolts (?), etc. Has anyone found anything that works?

 

I just put stainless bolts in to fill the holes.

 

Can’t you put the existing bolts back? Ot go to a hardware store and get some stainless replacement bolts

 

I was planning on selling the steps with the factory bolts included. I guess I could try to bolt match. Won’t stainless rust though?

 

Put anti seize on the bolts or use fluid film and spray in all the holes before filling them, that should prevent corrosion.

 

Stainless would be one of the least likely to rust but pretty much everything can rust eventually. They are cheap though so if they do just replace.

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/running-board-bolt-holes.763033/

I would think Toyota sells the rubber grommets that come from the factory. But should be able to purchase them cheaper/easier from Amazon or similar. Size of the bolts is in that thread.

Other threads out there on this. I google searched “tacoma running board plugs”

 

Here you go OP, too easy, and they’re cheap, try Home Depot. I found these on similar threads, recommended by others here on TW.

 

I put m8 nylon machine screws in the ones I’ve removed on other Toyotas and added a little dab of rust protectant to. The OEM plugs are basically semi threaded plastic inserts.

 

Add a bit of Vaseline to the threads if you’re thinking of removing them later.

 

Just used gorilla tape on mine. Good so far

 

I did the same buying some plastic darts at auto parts, plus I sprayed some cosmoline in those holes first.

 

Rubber plugs? Home Depot?

 

i put the original bolts back in but i'm not planning to sell steps. If i do sell i would just sell without bolts. lol

 

I didn't put anything in the holes after removing and selling my steps.

 

I believe the Toyota part number for the plugs is 90467-A0014, you need 12. Worked for me.

 

I wouldn't use stainless steel. While thr bolt itself won't corrode from water/salt, having stainless on mild steel will promote corrosion of the frame unless they're isolated.

Better off with the original bolts, rubber or plastic.

 

When I removed my predator steps and sold them, I asked the buyer if I could take their plugs. Easy peasy and no cost to me.