removal of "bracketry" behind doublecab rear seats

Bought this truck mid 2016 and still working on getting it all dialed in how I want it. Looks Like PO already removed some bracketry behind the rear seat where the storage used to be down lower, I want to cover this whole area in some sound deadening material and carpet. It would be a whole lot easier if I could remove that larger center "bracket" as well. My only concern is that it provides some sort of structural integrity. It is held in place by about 20 spot welds, which I wouldnt mind grinding flat ( wouldn't have to look perfect as I would just paint over the area and cover with the material)

My gut feeling is this probably isn't the best idea, but if that bracket is of no importance I would love to get it out of the way.

What does everyone think?

 

I would go with your gut feeling on this one. I'm sure if it was not needed or helpful Toyota wouldn't have stuck it there in the first place and saved the $$.

 

It looks to me like it served another purpose (I thought related to the factory storage) evident by the "hooks" on the bracketry. Whatever those were for, they are not being used now. If the only purpose of this bracket was to mount the factory storage then I have no problem getting rid of it.

 

The cross beam shouldn't really be for anything too structural but I'd still consider leaving that one and just cutting the hooks off. That's what I did when I did my deadening and noise barriers.

 

I am definitely considering leaving it but still considering removing it too. What would be the point to leave it if it is serving no purpose? After covering in carpet, I am going to be installing molle panels, so the bracket would hinder that too.

 

Obviously, I didn't design the truck so I'm reluctant to say either way and don't want to put you into a dangerous situation. However, I don't think it really serves much of a purpose (structurally) considering it's only tac welded in there on small spots. Not only that, but the rear panel isn't a source of strength considering there's a giant window mounted in it.

My acoustical recommendations are a bit conflicted though. That bar does strengthen the rear panel by quite a bit which will undoubtedly decrease resonance. So it's likely better off with a layer of deadener over it rather than cutting it out and applying two layers. That being said, if you're just needing the extra space to accomplish what you need to mount back there I can totally understand cutting it out. Wouldn't be the first time I've cut metal out of this truck to mount subwoofers.

 

Those "hooks" are for installing kid seats in the rear. http://www.ttguide.net/installing_child_restraints-48.html
You could be affecting any resale value if you remove them.

 

No plans to sell truck anytime soon, and not concerned too much with resale, but I understand what your saying, and at least now I know what they are for.

Also regarding resonance, If I removed it I could definitely tack in a steel flat bar in its place.

 

That would be highly recommended. Might even give you some new mounting options for your gear!

 

Ordered the sound deadener and molle paneling.

Current plan is as follows

Cut out bracketry, weld in ~1/8 flat bar in its place and paint color match to cab.

Cover in sound deadener (bought the self adhesive type)

Cover all that in ~1/4 inch plywood, and cover the plywood in automotive carpet material

Attach molle paneling to plywood


I am going to try and research a little more as well as listen here to see if anyone has any really good reason not to remove the bracketry. If not I should get it all done on the coming monday and Ill post some pictures.

 

Or you could go this route:

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/molle-panel-2nd-group-buy-for-2nd-3rd-gen-rear-seat.410254/

 

That is what gave me the idea actually, but by design that route eliminates a decent amount of space back there by not being mounted flush with rear cab wall. It sits away from the wall ~1-2''. and over a roughly 8 square foot area thats a good amount of space. On top of that I will be spending about 35-50$ rather than 215$ so I can spend the money on other parts. It is a really cool product just not right for me.

 

The top hook is what keeps your seats in the upright position. The lower three hooks are for LATCH (child restraints).

I wouldn't remove any of those.

 

Not planning on removing top hooks thats for sure. Why do you say you would not remove the bottom hooks? If I will not be using them, and I am not concerned with what the next owner would think that they are removed I don't see a reason to leave them in the way.

 

I'm a parent. I use my LATCH system. Way safer than just using seat belts to anchor car seats, etc. Those are meant to save someone's child's life some day.

Your truck though.

 

It's just to support the baby seat anchors, so tear that crap out! Unless, you want to haul around a back seat full of toddlers, spilling their drinks, blowing snot everywhere, singing Barney songs that get stuck in your brain... Screw hauling kids, that's what minivans are for.

 

okay.