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1985 4 Runner...where do tow hooks go on rear?

Discussion in '1st Gen 4Runners (1984-1989)' started by NightOwl, Sep 8, 2019.

  1. Sep 8, 2019 at 2:56 PM
    #1
    NightOwl

    NightOwl [OP] 1985 Toyota 4 Runner DLX 22REC

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    LCE header, 2.5 inch exhaust, 31x 10.50 BF Goodrich, 15 X 8 aluminum wheels, Bilstein Shocks, 3 inch lift kit, 3M fender flares
    I have looked over my 4 Runner for years and I have always been apprehensive of pulling another vehicle out with my rear stock rear bumper...that I have got tow hooks on...but I don't think the bumper can pull much of a vehicle out of any where without bending the stock bumper attachments on each side. Anyone have any good ideas or thoughts?
     
  2. Sep 8, 2019 at 3:39 PM
    #2
    4x Old Guy

    4x Old Guy New Member

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    Try looking under the back end of the actual frame (near where the bumper brackets attach, but not on the bumper brackets themselves).

    I had a 1985 Toyota Hilux (pre-Tacoma). I had added a Fey step bumper to tow a utility trailer. The bumper brackets bolted right into factory holes at the end of the frame. My guess os that your 4Runner has a similar setup. You might be able to attach the tow hooks using the same mounting holes and bolts as the bumper.
     
    Last edited: Sep 8, 2019
  3. Sep 8, 2019 at 3:52 PM
    #3
    4x Old Guy

    4x Old Guy New Member

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    Another option would be to get a bumper (and brackets) rated for towing, mount a ball on it and use that.
     
  4. Sep 8, 2019 at 3:59 PM
    #4
    NightOwl

    NightOwl [OP] 1985 Toyota 4 Runner DLX 22REC

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    Amos
    Ballwin, MO
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    1985 Toyota 4 Runner DLX
    LCE header, 2.5 inch exhaust, 31x 10.50 BF Goodrich, 15 X 8 aluminum wheels, Bilstein Shocks, 3 inch lift kit, 3M fender flares
    Thanks for the suggestion...I would consider a rear bumper... can you suggest one since there are a bunch out there and I'm not sure which is the best for an 85 4 Runner?
     
  5. Sep 8, 2019 at 5:49 PM
    #5
    4x Old Guy

    4x Old Guy New Member

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    I got the Fey step bumper because, at the time, it was pretty much the standard for bumpers for “working” pickups. Surprisingly, Fey is still in business. Here is their website . https://www.westinautomotive.com. If you’re not sure which bumper you need, you can probably call them and tell them what vehicle you have and what you need the bumper to do. They should be able direct you to the right one for your needs.

    Most manufacturers have just a few styles of bumpers, but have a bunch of different brackets to “customize” them to fit specific vehicles. The main thing you will be looking for is whether the bumper is rated for towing (they will have a towing capacity as part of the specs) and whether it’s available for your vehicle.
     
    SlvrSlug likes this.
  6. Sep 8, 2019 at 6:19 PM
    #6
    Dark Knight

    Dark Knight Get off my lawn

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    4x4 labs rear bumper is nice.
     
  7. Sep 8, 2019 at 6:30 PM
    #7
    oldtimer

    oldtimer New Member

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    Last edited: Sep 8, 2019
  8. Sep 8, 2019 at 6:48 PM
    #8
    NightOwl

    NightOwl [OP] 1985 Toyota 4 Runner DLX 22REC

    Joined:
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    Male
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    Amos
    Ballwin, MO
    Vehicle:
    1985 Toyota 4 Runner DLX
    LCE header, 2.5 inch exhaust, 31x 10.50 BF Goodrich, 15 X 8 aluminum wheels, Bilstein Shocks, 3 inch lift kit, 3M fender flares
    Thanks everyone for all the help!!! I'll look forward to checking these out. I'll get some pics of my 85 4 Runner so you guys can see what I've been working on. I've really never been a part of a forum but I am so glad I picked this one...you guys are Great!!!
     
    SlvrSlug likes this.
  9. Sep 8, 2019 at 6:51 PM
    #9
    4x Old Guy

    4x Old Guy New Member

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    Keep the shiny side up and the dirty side down.
     
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