Sharp metal plate thingy under the running boards (7 Viewers)

[oklastmod]

Please forgive me if this topic has already been covered. I tried searching the forums for "Toyota face ripper" and nothing came up. I probably spend more time underneath the 100 (LX470) than inside of it and I'm always getting scratched up by this sharp plate (see image below). My guess is that's some sort of mud guard for the running board lights. Has anyone just cut them off or modded them in any way to lessen their brutality? Thanks!

 

[Trapper50cal]

I don't have running boards or any knowledge that will help you...
but face ripper was a good one.
It looks innocuous...is that an under running board light fixture right behind it?
It may be shielding that fixture from rocks thrown off the front tires. IDK

 

[Coin]

If you spend much time under your LX, removing the running boards and adding the OEM front mudflaps makes it much easier.

 

[Super77]

Air brake. Stuck in the down position.

 

[oklastmod]

@Super77 Perhaps air brake -- or perhaps a rudder for steering in deep water.