https://ford-trucks.com/how-tos is the leading Ford F-150 and Super Duty truck resource for technical DIY guides. Tow hooks can really come in handy when you find yourself stuck in mud or another unfavorable situation. For the full step-by-step article, please visit https://www.ford-trucks.com/how-tos/a/ford-f150-f250-how-to-install-a-tow-hook-357074
If you are an avid off road enthusiast, you probably already know that tow hooks are worth their weight in gold if your truck gets stuck in muck. There is a reason most four wheel drive trucks come straight from the factory with these hooks, and that is because they are the safest tool by which to tie tow lines when trying to rescue a truck from mud, snow or sand.
Here’s how to install tow hooks on your Ford F-150 or Super Duty truck.
This moderately easy job takes ten to thirty minutes and costs from $20 to $100 dollars. A professional may charge up to double that amount to install a tow hook.
This job requires a lug wrench, jack and jack stands, a 10 millimeter Allen wrench, safety goggles, a socket wrench, and a ¾ inch socket.
Step One – Jack up your truck and remove the front wheels
● With your truck on level ground and the parking brake set, loosen the lug nuts from both front wheels.
● Jack the front end of the truck up, place a jack stand under each axle, and remove the front wheels for more working room.
Step Two – Remove the front bumper cover
Find the bumper cover screws securing the cover and use the 10 millimeter allen wrench to remove them. Then remove the cover.
Step Three – Locate predrilled holes on the front of the chassis
● Lie under the front end of your truck to find the predrilled holes on bumper.
● Put the screw and a nut through the predrilled hole in the frame. Begin turning it right so it can go in, but don’t tighten it all the way just yet.
Step Four – Install the new tow hook
● Slide the tow hook under the bolt. Use a ¾ inch socket to tighten the bolts.
● Repeat the same process on the other side if you want to have two tow hooks in the front.
Step Five – Reinstall the bumper and wheels
● Reattach the front bumper cover over the hooks to the bumper frame.
● Reinstall the tires after lowering the front end off jack stands.