Alright, right off the bat I apologize but I have searched and searched and apparently I am using the wrong words to describe my problem. I keep finding dead ends or am unable to find my issue. So here it is, and thanks in advance, I'm sure it's simple I just have never encountered this.
I cant seem to figure out how to remove the outer guard surrounding the hub. any amount of hitting or tapping and it bends, any tips, tricks or techniques will be appreciated.

 

Seems like I had to cut down the outside and peel off. That outer part is decoration only and not toyota.

 

looks like an american racing center trim piece. use a thin blade screwdriver to pry under the edge at the disc. stuck due to galvanic action.

 

Penetrating spray of your choice get something in there to help free it up.

Then you can fight with the cone washers

 

what they said

That "guard" is an inner trim ring for an aftermarket wheel

Basically - its not stock and never was stock.
Its galvanic "welded" to the brake rotor.

Remove it

Cut it with a dremel or
heat it wit a torch
Drill a hole and pry

But "rip" it off and throw it away

 

if you have to have another one to replace it......

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/a...MS1hoCoGvw_wcB

 

Thanks everyone, you were exactly right of course, super simple and non important. I ended up cutting them off and trashing them.

 

I never replaced mine and never will.

 

Same, not worth it at all in my opinion.

 

Looks IDENTICAL to the 1st one I removed!

Same situation.

 

Back when my 1989 4Runner was new, I ordered some "white wagon" wheels via the local 4x4 shop.
The owner, Sam, asks me if I want the center caps for the wheels.

I say "will they make the truck go faster?"
He looks at me funny... "uh - no"
So I say "nope"

He says - good - cause they always end up rattling and I have to deal with irate customers...