Help - Dodge Truck Tow Hooks?

guestrider · 08-17-2006, 09:06 PM

So the Dodge dealer says the 2001, 1500 Model does not have the option to add tow hooks. These tow hooks go in the middle of the front bumper. I know I can get aftermarket hooks but don't know how to apply them. Can anyone assist? Is there aftermarket adapters to apply universal hooks? Has anyone gone custom on a hook project or is the dealer full of it? Any assistance [and pictures] would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!!

Larry O'Daniel · 08-18-2006, 07:57 AM

Safety is one issue about tow hooks. Improperly mounted hooks can get people hurt. Having said that....

Tow hooks need to be bolted directly to the frame or a stout brace that is bolted to the frame. Do not bolt the hook to your bumper. 1) the bumper is not strong enough to hold it, it will rip out of the bumper; 2) the bumper mounting brackets are designed to collapse in a wreck absorbing some of the force of the wreck, thus they do NOT make good towing brackets; 3) the bumper brackets are not built for pulling due to the angle of them, towing force should be straight inline with the frame.
I haven't looked under the new trucks with tow hooks in mind so I don't know the construction of the front frame "horns" to know what you will have to do. I am sure that any aftermarket tow hook will have to be custom built to fit and pull correctly. With all the automakers going to thinner frames and "hydro-formed" frame members I am sure you will have to custom build your tow hooks to prevent them from being ripped out or torn loose.

08-17-2006, 09:06 PM	#1
guestrider Junior Member Join Date: Aug 2006 Posts: 1	Help - Dodge Truck Tow Hooks? So the Dodge dealer says the 2001, 1500 Model does not have the option to add tow hooks. These tow hooks go in the middle of the front bumper. I know I can get aftermarket hooks but don't know how to apply them. Can anyone assist? Is there aftermarket adapters to apply universal hooks? Has anyone gone custom on a hook project or is the dealer full of it? Any assistance [and pictures] would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!!

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08-18-2006, 07:57 AM	#2
Larry O'Daniel Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Tulsa, stationed at Ft. Sill, OK Posts: 90	Safety is one issue about tow hooks. Improperly mounted hooks can get people hurt. Having said that.... Tow hooks need to be bolted directly to the frame or a stout brace that is bolted to the frame. Do not bolt the hook to your bumper. 1) the bumper is not strong enough to hold it, it will rip out of the bumper; 2) the bumper mounting brackets are designed to collapse in a wreck absorbing some of the force of the wreck, thus they do NOT make good towing brackets; 3) the bumper brackets are not built for pulling due to the angle of them, towing force should be straight inline with the frame. I haven't looked under the new trucks with tow hooks in mind so I don't know the construction of the front frame "horns" to know what you will have to do. I am sure that any aftermarket tow hook will have to be custom built to fit and pull correctly. With all the automakers going to thinner frames and "hydro-formed" frame members I am sure you will have to custom build your tow hooks to prevent them from being ripped out or torn loose.