tow hook keepers????
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Senior User
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 308
Likes: 0
From: Alberta
tow hook keepers????
I bought some tow hooks and they came with some kind of metal bracket called keepers, what are these for? Im going to install these this weekend front and back on the frame, any advice on installing these, up?down?sideways? I was thinking of putting the bolting part of the hooks inside the frame box and shim it with washers so its snug in there and run bolts all the way through each side of the frame, this would make the hooks be sideways, or should i just bolt them on the outside? As for the rear the back of the frame isnt boxy, it goes flat, just mount it there anyways? i dont want to twist my frame when it comes time to pull out a chev 
Thanks
95 f150 4x4
302 5 spd m5od
4"susp 3"body
35 mtrs
Thanks
95 f150 4x4
302 5 spd m5od
4"susp 3"body
35 mtrs
Freshman User
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 49
Likes: 0
use a large piece of flat bar on the other side of the frame to spread the load. the keepers are a pain in the **** to use sometimes.they are hard to open and don't hold the tow strap properly sometimes. use them at first and if you don't like them just unbolt the hooks and take them off.
Elder User
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 500
Likes: 0
From: Oregon
The keepers "keep" the strap or chain from sliding off. If you want to hassle with the keepers when you need to use the hooks, mount them anyway you lke. But if you don't want the hassle, mount them with the hook up or sideways. I've always mounted them on brackets that were attatched to the frame, not directly to the frame. In case something breaks, it won't be your frame, it'll be the bracket.
Do a search in this forum, I think there was a similar topic a few weeks ago.
Do a search in this forum, I think there was a similar topic a few weeks ago.
Post Fiend
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 13,873
Likes: 3
From: Atlanta GA
I agree with the flat bar to spread the load on the frame. Do NOT bolt them on the outside of the frame rail, you can pull your frame apart that way and break the welds on the cross members.
The keepers are nice if you are getting pulled, get part way out, the line goes slack for a second before the other truck finds traction to keep pulling, and it falls off. Sometimes in swampy stuff all you get is one good shot at getting out before the ruts make it impossible.
I have used bungie cords to help keep the strap/line on the hook.
The keepers are nice if you are getting pulled, get part way out, the line goes slack for a second before the other truck finds traction to keep pulling, and it falls off. Sometimes in swampy stuff all you get is one good shot at getting out before the ruts make it impossible.
I have used bungie cords to help keep the strap/line on the hook.
Lead Driver
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 9,236
Likes: 12
From: Senoia, GA
i have said it before and i will say it again! D-rongs or shackles! hooks are too weak due to the fact that there is an open end! don't be surprised when you have a chain or strap fly back and take out your tailgate or windshield cause the hook bent too far and the strap slipped off!
-jason-
-jason-
