Chevrolet Silverado 2007-Present: Tow Hook Modification/How to Install Tow Hook

This article applies to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (2007-present).

Tow hooks mount to the frame and provide a handy way to free your Chevrolet Silverado 1500 if you get stuck somewhere in the mud. There are three types of tow hooks available: custom made hooks, universal hooks, and rugged hooks. Read on for more information regarding all the details you need to know about each type of hook.

Tow Hooks Overview

When you make the decision of choosing a tow hook, you will be faced with three great options. Read on to find out what best suits your towing needs.

Custom Made Tow Hooks

Price – $30-$200

DIY Level – Easy

Rating – Recommended

Protection – Good

Custom tow hooks are specifically made for the make and model of your vehicle, and simply bolt on in the grill guard or frame. They are very easy to install, typically requiring only a socket or wrench set, and can cost as little as $30 to $60 for a set. These hooks can also be rated for up to 10,000 pounds or more, making them a great choice for most applications. Some popular brands of custom bolt in tow hooks include Blue Ox, Smittybilt, and Curt Manufacturing.

Universal Tow Hooks

Price – $15-$200

DIY Level – Moderate

Rating – Not Recommended

Protection – Good

Universal tow hooks can be had even cheaper than custom bolt in hooks and are designed to fit a wide variety of vehicles. The problem with universal hooks is that since they are designed to fit as many vehicles as possible, they may require some modifications to your truck, such as drilling or removing the bumper. Some are designed to be bolted in or welded on and tend to have a lower rated capacity than bolt-ins. Some might even need to be professionally installed, especially if they need to be welded. Some of the most popular universal tow hooks include Blackworks, AllSales, and ProComp.

Rugged Tow Hooks

Price – $200-500

DIY Level – Moderate

Rating – Recommended

Protection – High

If you're looking for the ultimate in towing capacity, you'll need to dole out some serious coin and pick up a rugged tow hook. These types of hooks look the part as well, often coming in rugged-looking shapes or chrome plating. Some might even fold out of the way when not in use, which is appealing to those who don't want giant hooks hanging out all the time. Much like universal hooks, rugged hooks can either be bolt-in or might require welding or drilling to install.

How to Install Tow Hook

Depending on which model truck you have, the holes needed to install a set of tow hook might already be drilled. If they are, installation is very simple and requires only a socket or wrench set at most. The process may also require removing the air dam or bumper, or even cutting holes in the bumper to install.

Step 1 – Determine if modifications are needed

Depending on what sort of hooks you choose, factory openings may be sufficient. Measure the area and determine if any cutting or trimming is necessary to make the hooks fit. If necessary, mark the area to cut and trim it.

Step 2 – Install the tow hooks

Slide the tow hooks into place and line them up with the bolt holes on the frame. If you don't have factory bolt holes, you will need to mark this area and drill them. In some cases, the bolt holes may not be big enough and must be drilled out to fit. Once completed, squeeze a line of red Loctite onto the bolts and install them. Install the chain hold down bracket onto the bolts, followed by the washers and nuts. Tighten according to the torque specs in the manual that comes with your tow hook.

Featured Video: How to Install Tow Hooks on Silverado

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