How to Fix a Weld Nut That Busted Off for a 2016 Toyota 4Runner Skid Plate

Updated 05/23/2025 | Published 05/21/2025

Question:

Hello, While taking off a skid plate for my 2016 4 runner. I found that one in-frame weld nut was snapped off and another had to be broken to get out a snapped bolt. I have seen some ways to fix this but wanted to hear yalls opinion before I spend money and make a mess. thank you.

asked by: Dalton S

Expert Reply:

Hey Dalton, thanks for reaching out!

That sucks. I had the same thing happen to me when I installed a hitch on my 2010 Town and Country - the OEM bolts were rusted in place and I broke one of them off even with all of my efforts to avoid it.

We used to have some replacement weld nuts that came with a handle so you could hold them into place, but I don't believe those are made anymore so your best bet is to use a bolt leader like the part # 80101-1 and then get a bolt and spacer to drop down out of your frame so you'll end up having the nut on the outside instead of a weld nut setup inside the frame.

Hopefully that makes sense - let me know if you have any other questions!

expert reply by: Jon G