This is pretty much par for the course w/Toyota's, especially when you start working on the engine or interior. Toyota engineers like to put bolts, screw, and studs where you would least expect, where one or two might do the job, Toyota will add 3 more just to make sure it is solid. This is a great practice for durability/longevity, but a PITA when you are removing things.

OOP's I have a buddy like that as well when it comes to front end/suspension work. I used to buy a 12pack and the parts, give him a call and before the beer was nice and cold to drink, the parts were already replaced. Unfortunately he now resides in Indianapolis, and what would take him 30 minutes takes me an hour.

I haven't had to fool with the ones on my '90 w/3" lift yet, so I don't know if that makes much of a difference or not.