Front tow hooks

[packmule1911]

Might not be right for the modified forum, but since my XJ doesn't current have front tow hooks, and I want to give it some, then maybe this is a "modification".

My front bumper is stock and has openings for some. Harbor Freight has an offering, and I wondered if anyone has used them, or have another suggestion.

http://www.harborfreight.com/automotive-motorcycle/trailer-hitch/10000-lb-capacity-tow-hook-kit-67497.html

Thanks.

[prerunner1982]

There are brackets that you need for the "frame"...

Here: http://www.4wd.com/Jeep-Winches-Jeep-Winch-Accessories/Tow-Hooks-and-Frame-Brackets.aspx?t_c=18&t_s=190&t_pt=4007&t_pn=RUG11236.05&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping&emlprox=out&ppcfon=1&gp=1&gclid=CPrO1O2Lx8cCFReUfgoddlYBhw

http://www.4wd.com/aux_incl/images.ashx?i=RUG_11236.05_PIC_4_1_72.jpg&partNo=RUG&w=330&h=330

[4.3LXJ]

I think you are on the right track. Yes you need brackets. That style of hook needs to point up and but has a clip on it. When that kind of hook points down any slack at all and the strap is gone. If that clip will fit snug enough to keep a strap from falling out, go for it

[prerunner1982]

Weren't the factory hooks the same as pictured above?

I like my hooks to face up too (a couple additional letters in that sentence and it has a whole different meaning).... but I am not sure the factory mounting bracket and location would allow them to face up. Don't have factory hooks on either of mine so I can't really say for sure..

[XJ Wheeler]

I have the factory ones and they can't be turn over. The bracket and bumper are in the way.

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[GoneWithTheWind]

I just put on a set of tow hooks from 4wd.com and the clip is very weak. I think if you pull the clip too hard it will stay open and not hold much, plus they'll have to come off to bend them back in place. Otherwise I'm happy w/my upside down hooks.

[packmule1911]

I'm abandoning the tow hook strategy and go with a front hitch. I can use it for various racks and also for recovery.

[XJ Wheeler]

I'm abandoning the tow hook strategy and go with a front hitch. I can use it for various racks and also for recovery.

That'll work! They make a d-ring mount that slides into the receiver. I have one and works very well in my rear receiver. Just a suggestion.

Sent via messenger pigeon - i talk, he types.

[packmule1911]

They make a d-ring mount that slides into the receiver. I have one and works very well in my rear receiver. Just a suggestion.

That's the picture I have in mind.

[GoneWithTheWind]

There are brackets that you need for the "frame"...

Here: http://www.4wd.com/Jeep-Winches-Jeep-Winch-Accessories/Tow-Hooks-and-Frame-Brackets.aspx?t_c=18&t_s=190&t_pt=4007&t_pn=RUG11236.05&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping&emlprox=out&ppcfon=1&gp=1&gclid=CPrO1O2Lx8cCFReUfgoddlYBhw

http://www.4wd.com/aux_incl/images.ashx?i=RUG_11236.05_PIC_4_1_72.jpg&partNo=RUG&w=330&h=330
These are what I bought, and now that I've figured out the photobucket I can show them to you.http://i781.photobucket.com/albums/yy96/herein97217xj/DSC00478_zpsynqdwaib.jpg (http://s781.photobucket.com/user/herein97217xj/media/DSC00478_zpsynqdwaib.jpg.html)http://i781.photobucket.com/albums/yy96/herein97217xj/DSC00479_zpszamxkcih.jpg (http://s781.photobucket.com/user/herein97217xj/media/DSC00479_zpszamxkcih.jpg.html)http://i781.photobucket.com/albums/yy96/herein97217xj/DSC00480_zpsnv3wo5yo.jpg (http://s781.photobucket.com/user/herein97217xj/media/DSC00480_zpsnv3wo5yo.jpg.html) I figured I'd keep some long zip ties for when the clips fail, that way I can secure the strap to the hook.

[XJ Wheeler]

Looks like some nice brackets. Do they extend toward the rear of the vehicle along the frame like the ones above? Hard to tell from the pic but just wanted to say to make sure the rear most bolts are good and tight. Those extra two bolts are the main reason for the brackets.

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

[GoneWithTheWind]

Looks like some nice brackets. Do they extend toward the rear of the vehicle along the frame like the ones above? Hard to tell from the pic but just wanted to say to make sure the rear most bolts are good and tight. Those extra two bolts are the main reason for the brackets.

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.
Yes, they are just like your picture. They gave me stove bolts for the rear of the brackets. I used my floor jack to push the bumper back up into place before I torqued the bolts. I'm happy w/them, but I may as well left off the clips.
I meant to say Prerunners picture, I have the same brackets and hooks.

[prerunner1982]

The Lowes here has these for $30, 10K pound rating and the ring rotates so you are side loading it like a fixed mounted d ring.

[GoneWithTheWind]

Looks like some nice brackets. Do they extend toward the rear of the vehicle along the frame like the ones above? Hard to tell from the pic but just wanted to say to make sure the rear most bolts are good and tight. Those extra two bolts are the main reason for the brackets.

Sent via messenger pigeon. I talk, he types.

Here's the back end of the brackets, it's a solid fit.http://i781.photobucket.com/albums/yy96/herein97217xj/DSC00497_zpsherqubkx.jpg (http://s781.photobucket.com/user/herein97217xj/media/DSC00497_zpsherqubkx.jpg.html)

[slvmart]

X2 on the front hitch. Plus it stiffens up the front end unibody.

[GoneWithTheWind]

X2 on the front hitch. Plus it stiffens up the front end unibody.
I didn't have an extra $500 at the time.

[packmule1911]

X2 on the front hitch. Plus it stiffens up the front end unibody.


There's a Curt online for $108 that I'll go with when I have the money.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[GoneWithTheWind]

I was thinking of the bumpers w/the receivers built in.

[slvmart]

In many cases you can have a the receiver as a stand alone and then add a aftermarket bumper later. If you look hard, you can see the receiver below the bumper on my XJ.

[packmule1911]

I was thinking of the bumpers w/the receivers built in.


Ah. I understand. I try to not think too much about what I can't afford. The kids need to stop fleecing me; maybe then I can get a front AND a back bumper.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[robuilt]

I have the iron rock off road tow hook kit. It's stout!

They tuck under pretty good

[4.3LXJ]

:thumbsup: