Source for tow hooks

[campbellcj]

Anybody happen to know of an inexpensive source for this type of race car tow hook? The specific application is probably front+rear of a 914 track car that already has fiberglass bumpers which could be slotted if required. The one in the pic is $30/ea plus shipping and fab work so I was wondering if there are other options. I don't really have the tools to fab them from scratch.



TIA,

[cstreit]

Chris,

They're actually very simple to make. THe only tools I had when I made mine were a cutoff wheel (dremel would work even), a file, and a hole-saw from the hardware store on my drill. I didn't even weld it in, just bolted it to the factory "loop" by sandwiching the plate and another small plate around the loop. This allows me to remove it easily if I change bumpers.

I'd check some of the big race supply places (Hoerr, SUmmit, etc..). If you can't find it, let me know and I will make one for you.

CHris

[campbellcj]

Well I do have -those- tools. I guess I was thinking that the necessary gauge of steel would be too much for normal hand tools to handle? Maybe I'll take a crack at it today -- supposed to rain anyhow.

[cstreit]

Nah!

I used 1/8" steel... Works fine and unfortunately I've had to use it a few times so I know it holds up!

You could also use a hacksaw or some other tool to make the cuts, then grind or file it down to it. Easy-peasy!

[widebody911]

Can you give me a rough idea of dimensions? I'm in the process of installing a new bumper, and want to solve the tow hook issue at the same time.

Thanks!

[cstreit]

I bought a piece of 1/8" steel that was 2"x18" or so. I used a 1" hole saw in the end, leaving a good 1/2" to support the metal for towing. How long you cut it will depend on how far out you want it to protrude. I kept it pretty close to the spoiler to avoid whacking my ankles on it every time I walk past the front of the car.

I then cut a small plate probably 2x2 to sit on top of the factory tow loop in the center of the car. THen drilled holes though both plates and clamped the two pieces together with bolts. So the bolts do the load work. I used a large eye-bolt as one to give it some support should the car ever bottom out.

[Zeke]

I made one just like the one pictured with a hole saw as mentioned. The front one sits vertical and is bolted slong the inner fender down low where it is strong. The rear sits flat and is bolted above the reinforced part of the rear trunk floor. I think this is where the shipping tie down went on a 914. The front one is 18" long and the rear is 12"

[campbellcj]

Hey Milt - pics would be greatly appreciated - that sounds like exactly the setup I would like to try!

[widebody911]

Ok, what do you think of this: 3/8' steel rod, bent into a ~2 1/4" radius. I plan to weld it to the area just in front of the passenger-side A-arm mount, where the various pieces of the pan come together. I can't put it in the center, as the cooler is in the way. Don't know if it makes more sense to put it on the driver's side, or maybe on on each side?