I'm in the middle of installing the Dodge factory tow hooks on my rig, the tow hooks I ordered came with four mounting brackets. Upon removing the bumper it looks like the four (two per side) brackets are not necessary to mount the tow hooks. The tow hooks will bolt up to the bumper mounting brackets (two total) with out any problems, i.e, without those four brackets. So my question is, are the four brackets that came with the tow hooks necessary or not; are they supposed to beef up the tow hook mounting points. Any help is much appreciated.

 

You need the brackets to strengthen the part of the frame the hook attache too. If not, you risk damaging the frame when using the hooks. Use them.

 

Jkitterman, thanks for setting that straight, I'll go to finish up the install in a few.

 

As jkitterman said. The extra plates provide distribution of the load when the hooks are used. In other words, they are needed!

 

I got everything installed, but what a PITA; I ran into a few clearance issues trying to slide the bolt assembly that holds the bumper mounting bracket(s) to the frame past the radiator. The truck does look better with the tow hooks and they're just smart to have on any 4x4.

 

I installed mine in one hour right before heading out for deer hunting. I know what you mean by a pain. It was like working on a puzzle to get everything OK.

 

Uh-oh...

I purchased two tow hooks from somebody and bolted them on without any extra support brackets. Can somebody post a picture of the extra brackets so I can look into trying to find some?

Thanks!!

 

Dsteinke, here's a pic of one of the bumper brackets (as if you're lying under the truck, looking up).

 

Left tow hook bracket



end view of same

 

Thanks for the pics!! Now to check under the truck to see what I do and/or do not have.