My 4X4 did not come with the 'protection group' - no transfer case skid plate or tow hooks.

I do want to get some tow hooks, but do not really like the factory ones that much. Are there any decent aftermarket ones out there? Where & how much?

 

The OEM ones are the only way to go. Very stout!

It would take some fabrication and frame drilling to mount universal "hooks" and there is not a lot of room down there with the OEM bumper and brackets.

 

I got'em on mine when ordered, for the $50 I couldn't see getting my hands beat up more than they are. If buying new off the lot, I would think the dealer could be pursuaded to mount them if they aren't already there.

 

Mark, I went through this same predicament as you. In the end, I opted to not even get tow hooks. Instead I went with a Front Mount Receiver hitch. The factory tow hooks are rated at 5500lbs. A Front Mount Receiver hitch is rated at 9000lbs. You can use a Warn Shackel device and mount in there. Plus it comes in handy if you need to back a trailer into a tricky spot.

Best part of all, the front hitch was cheaper than the tow hooks!! Dodge wanted roughly $150 for the tow hooks. www.dodgeparts.com wants $97 for them, minus shipping which will run about $10-15. I got my 9000lb receiver hit for $102. Its the same price, plus its more usable than just tow hooks. I'm going to get it installed tomorrow.

 

I pulled the hooks off an did the reciever thing too much better. the tow hooks were set to deep on the sport and the strap always rubbed the facia...

 

Where did you guys get your recievers???

Blygy

 

Got some Pics?

 

I too was looking for tow hooks but the front receiver idea is great . Let us know where you got the front hitch.

 

Mark Hodowanec,

We have triple plated chroem factory tow hooks available if thats something that would interest you.

Mark @ DPPI

 

http://www.etrailer.com/products.asp...=Dodge&t1=&h=e

http://www.etrailer.com/productdetai...rfrom=2004&h=e

I didn't buy mine from here, but rather got it from a local hitch store. Still, this is the hitch I put on mine. I'll work on getting some pictures.

The only thing I don't like about it is that it hangs lower that what I would like. Ideally, it would come out in the slot in the bumper where the tow hooks do, but i don't think it would fit. A third advantage I forgot to mention about this route over tow hooks is that you can use it to mount a winch.

With the front mount hitch, you can get one of these

http://www.etrailer.com/Merchant2/me...tegory_Code=OR

to slide in there and have a safe secure point to attach a tow strap to.

 

okay here are some pics. I apologize for the darkness.





While you are looking, check out my hitch cover

 

I can't get into that forum. can you post the pics on this forum?

 

see pictures in my gallery

 

The factory hooks are strong. I had new gravel put down on my drive to the barn and could not climb the hill witht he 5th wheel attatched. With the wife driving the truck I pulled the truck and camper up the hill. She was trying to help with he truck but all it did was kick gravel. I'm pleased, just hope Idon't have to use them like that again.

 

How about a receiver hitch that bolts to the tow hook holes

it would be up higher better for a whinch

anybody try this??