Dissent rear bumper lower tailgate contact?

[SF1911A1]

I replaced my tailgate straps and no longer have any contact from the bumper to the tailgate. It’s easy except for the bolts that retain the straps are made of the worlds softest metal. I had every bolt star rounding out on me with one being completely rounded. I was on a road trip of course when I decided to complete this easy task. I ended up having to stop in a random auto shop to see if they would back the bolts out for me. They had a lot of trouble as well but were able to get them all out with a special tool and the new ones in. I’ve never dealt with such soft/weak metal on a bolt.

 

[CharlieS]

I replaced my tailgate straps and no longer have any contact from the bumper to the tailgate. It’s easy except for the bolts that retain the straps are made of the worlds softest metal. I had every bolt star rounding out on me with one being completely rounded. I was on a road trip of course when I decided to complete this easy task. I ended up having to stop in a random auto shop to see if they would back the bolts out for me. They had a lot of trouble as well but were able to get them all out with a special tool and the new ones in. I’ve never dealt with such soft/weak metal on a bolt.

Would you be willing to say what you replaced them with? New ones from Toyota? Something aftermarket? Something custom?

 

[SF1911A1]

Would you be willing to say what you replaced them with? New ones from Toyota? Something aftermarket? Something custom?

Just regular oem from the dealer. (Lexus)