How to Add Tow Hooks to a RAM 1500 That Didn't Come With Them
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You just bought a 2009–2018 RAM 1500.
You take it out in the snow, slide into a ditch, and wait for a buddy to pull you out.
He shows up, grabs his strap, looks under your front bumper, and says:
"Uh, where do I hook this?"
That is the moment you realize your truck has no front tow hooks.
Instead, you have two solid black plastic rectangles in your bumper.
Don't panic—the frame mounts are still there. RAM just hid them.
Adding tow hooks is one of the most important upgrades you can do for a daily driven truck. But it's not quite "plug and play." You have to deal with that plastic bumper valance.
In this guide, we show you how to cut your valance (it's easy, we promise) and explain why upgrading to a Closed Shackle Mount is safer than installing the factory J-Hooks.
Compare Recovery Options
Factory Restoration or Off-Road Safety?
|
Option |
Design |
Safety Level |
Best For |
|
OEM Style Tow Hooks |
Open "J" Hook. |
Medium. Strap can slip off. |
Restoration. Maintaining the factory look. |
|
Shackle Conversion Kit |
Closed Eyelet. |
High. Strap is locked in. |
Off-Roading. Mud/Snow recovery. |
|
Recovery Bezel Kit |
Plastic Trim. |
N/A. |
Install Prep. Replacing solid bumper fillers. |
|
Hitch Receiver Hook |
Rear Mount. |
High. |
Backup. Pulling from the rear. |
Frequently Asked Questions (Tow Hooks)
My truck didn't come with hooks. Can I add them?
Yes. The mounting holes are on the frame of every RAM 1500. However, your plastic lower bumper valance likely covers them. You will need to:
- Remove the plastic valance inserts.
- Cut out the rectangle opening (there is usually a template stamped on the back).
- Or, buy replacement "Tow Hook Bezels" from Mopar or an aftermarket source.
Why choose a D-Ring Shackle over a J-Hook?
Safety. A factory "J" hook is open. If your tow vehicle stops moving and the strap goes slack, the loop can fall off the hook. When the vehicle takes off again, the strap is gone. A Shackle Mount uses a screw-pin D-Ring that creates a "Closed System." The strap cannot fall off, no matter how much slack you have.
Do these fit the RAM Rebel?
Check the part number carefully. The RAM Rebel has a unique powder-coated steel bumper and skid plate setup that is different from the standard chrome/plastic bumper found on the Big Horn, Laramie, and Express. Standard 1500 hooks often do not fit the Rebel skid plate configuration.
Be ready for the ditch.
Add the recovery points your truck is missing. Shop our verified collection of 2009–2018 RAM 1500 Tow Hooks.