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I'm looking for info to install the factory front tow hooks on my truck but noticed that mine has 2 front valance? It has the one valance with clips attached to the bumper where it has the area to cut out to install the tow hooks and the rubber covers, then below that it has another rubber valance attached with bolts to the higher one.
Has anyone done this modification and how did you cut out the cover area to make sure the rubber part fit correctly?
I'm not sure about the later models but I added chrome tow hooks to my 2010 F-150 2WD XLT. I replaced to front lower valance and installed tow hooks for an 4X4. I've seen some people just cut out the place in their original valance to accommodate the tow hooks.
I've got a brand new lower valance and chrome tow hooks I never got around to installing on my 2014 F-150 2WD Limited.
... I've seen some people just cut out the place in their original valance to accommodate the tow hooks. I've got a brand new lower valance and chrome tow hooks I never got around to installing on my 2014 F-150 2WD Limited.
I considered doing cutting out just enough to fit the hooks through and at the same time it saves on the additional cost of the rubber boots cover things. If I don't like the way it looks I can always completely cut out the cover and install the rubber boots later. I don't like chrome if not I'd look into the part numbers and if they fit I would have bought those hooks from you. That's why I bought my truck all red and black, I've never liked chrome, don't know why.
I considered doing cutting out just enough to fit the hooks through and at the same time it saves on the additional cost of the rubber boots cover things. If I don't like the way it looks I can always completely cut out the cover and install the rubber boots later. I don't like chrome if not I'd look into the part numbers and if they fit I would have bought those hooks from you. That's why I bought my truck all red and black, I've never liked chrome, don't know why.
I've never done this, but I could take some pictures of where they attach (I have a 4x4) and post them here if that will help ?
I've never done this, but I could take some pictures of where they attach (I have a 4x4) and post them here if that will help ?
I appreciate the offer. I have to go buy fuel (non-ethanol) for the lawn mowers in a couple of hours and there's a Ford dealership close by. I'm going to stop there and get under one of their trucks with tow hooks to compare what I have with theirs and see what I'll end up doing. Thanks !
I out of curiosity wanted to see how they attach. All I can say is its totally different than the way my hooks were attached on my 06 Ford. It looks like there is a different front cover used, since it looks like they molded in the openings for the hooks. Also the hooks are back covered a similar material as the full cover. I guess its for aerodynamics ? Here is some pics of the drivers side hook.
Thanks for the pictures. I went and got under a new truck like mine but 4x4 and even though it uses a different valance I got what I needed so I'm going to order the rubber hoods too in order to make it look like a factory installation. The only difference will be I'll be cutting my valance to exact minimums in order to not have those holes they leave on the sides of the boots when they install the hooks without changing the valance. I'll post pictures when I do it, should have everything here by next week.
Thanks for the pictures. I went and got under a new truck like mine but 4x4 and even though it uses a different valance I got what I needed so I'm going to order the rubber hoods too in order to make it look like a factory installation. The only difference will be I'll be cutting my valance to exact minimums in order to not have those holes they leave on the sides of the boots when they install the hooks without changing the valance. I'll post pictures when I do it, should have everything here by next week.
Did you have any luck in doing this? Perhaps you can private message or post some pictures . I'm trying to do the same project, I have an 18 XLT
I had a chance to attempt this today. Easy job if you are steady with a dremel or sheetrock blade. I only had time to get one done as it's quite chilly here in Dallas. The most difficult/PITA part was getting to the two screws that hold the upper valiance in place. Thankfully, you can access them by popping off the square panel above it with a pry tool. They are 6/32 if my memory serves correct but don't hold me to it. You will need a socket extension. I am going to grab some sandpaper from Home Depot and charge up my dremel to complete the other side tomorrow.
I had a chance to attempt this today. Easy job if you are steady with a dremel or sheetrock blade. I only had time to get one done as it's quite chilly here in Dallas. The most difficult/PITA part was getting to the two screws that hold the upper valiance in place. Thankfully, you can access them by popping off the square panel above it with a pry tool. They are 6/32 if my memory serves correct but don't hold me to it. You will need a socket extension. I am going to grab some sandpaper from Home Depot and charge up my dremel to complete the other side tomorrow.
I was thinking of taking a break and installing mine today but it was too cold so I still took the break and worked on the runway a while (heated cab tractor).
Quick questions, why didn't you install the rubber boots to make it look they had been factory installed ( just $6 each side ) and why did you cut the top off of the valance if you weren't going to install the rubber boots and only needed a small opening for the hook to pass through?
I made a huge cutout for the tow hook because I am eventually going to install the factory boot. The boot needs to be tucked up into the chrome bumper but I don't have enough clearance to tuck it with the frame (the same bar the tow hook mounts to). I think the bumper may have to be loosened so I can snake in the rubber boot, then I'll tighten down the bumper again. I am searching the forums like crazy to see if the bumper can simply be "loosened" without a complete removal job.
I made a huge cutout for the tow hook because I am eventually going to install the factory boot. The boot needs to be tucked up into the chrome bumper but I don't have enough clearance to tuck it with the frame (the same bar the tow hook mounts to). I think the bumper may have to be loosened so I can snake in the rubber boot, then I'll tighten down the bumper again. I am searching the forums like crazy to see if the bumper can simply be "loosened" without a complete removal job.
Ok, that makes sense. I wish I had time to install mine. I also have the perimeter alarm and remote start module that is easier to install than these hooks and I haven't found time to do that either. Life keeps getting in the way, lol.
Sounds like you have your summer booked. Here are some photos of the final product. I am probably going to see what the shops around her will charge to put in those panels. If I can find some fancy tape or weatherstripping to cover my dremel marks, I will be real happy with the final results.
03-21-2018, 12:29 PM
