Finally got around to installing the Votex Rear Skid Plate (VW Part No. 7L00716112BC). After glancing through the instructions I knew it wasn’t as straight forward as I thought it was, things like liquid nail and painter’s tape were involved. I also did not realize how difficult it was to install this piece with the bumper still on the vehicle. In short, unless you have freakishly child like hands your exhaust would have to be removed, or your bumper cover will need to come off – otherwise make sure you have a dumpster full of swear words ready at your convenience.
Please excuse the cell phone pics, they were all I had to work with. After my failed initial attempt I was set on just dumping the truck off at the bodyshop, but for some strange reason I couldn’t wait until after the holidays (although I’ve waited nearly a year already). I found a video on bumper cover removal here. Pretty straight forward.
Open your hatch, then pry open two bolt covers, remove two bolts then pull out your rear taillight assembly. There is a ball socket that keeps your assembly in and you will have to be careful, but firm in your attempt to pull the unit out. It will literally pop out, so make sure you have good footing. Next, there are two torx bolts that become exposed, undo those and move into your wheel well, there are five more bolts in there. Repeat with the opposite side then move the the bottom of your bumper cover, there are four more sizable bolts underneath – undo those and you will be able to carefully pull your bumper cover off.
Once this is done I created a quick photo guide to help you install your skid plate, like I did. It’s not complete, but it along with the provided instructions should be able to make things that much easier.
Touareg Rear Skid Plate Install Photos
I wasn’t sure if I liked it when I installed it, but now after it’s been on for a couple days I actually do. Sure it’s just a plastic part, and offers no real protection but it does give the truck a lower and wider stance. Now…I just need to get around to installing the rest of the parts, new tires, and deal with that custom exhaust issue that’s been bumped up higher on the priority list now.
Hope this has been helpful to those of you who were also kind of lost as to how to install this thing.
-Wallace
projektTOUAREG 