Tow hook bolts.

[jeepsquire]

I have some stock front tow hooks now but need to get bolts to put them on. 

Dealer doesn't sell just the bolts. 

I want to at the least get some that match or exceed the OEM specs.  Anyone know what they are?

 

[JeepinMaxx]

I think they are metric grade 8.8 12mm bolts.  12mm bolts coome in several different thread pitches.  Take one of your original bumper bolts to the hardware store with you and get a new one about an inch longer.  Also Napa has a good selection of bolts.

 

[jeepsquire]

I think they are metric grade 8.8 12mm bolts.  12mm bolts coome in several different thread pitches.  Take one of your original bumper bolts to the hardware store with you and get a new one about an inch longer.  Also Napa has a good selection of bolts.

I was thinking of taking it to NAPA.  The NAPA store right near me is also their regional warehouse and they are usually pretty sharp there.  I mostly want to make sure I get bolts strong enough that I'm not endangering someone trying to help winch me out of somewhere.

 

[jeepsquire]

I think I said it wrong.  I can match up the bolt size and thread. 

I was more wondering about steel strength, stainles vs zinc, stuff like that.

 

[beaker]

I'd recomend grade 8

Stainless bolts are not that strong,
if it's got zinc plate on it, it's most likely not grade 8.
Allen head socket bolts are quite strong, just tend to strip the socket.

Stick with grade 8 hex head.  Paint them because they will rust and look ugly.

Make sure you get grade 8 nuts to go with them.  Plain nuts are only like a grade 5 or less.  You won't loose a bolt, you'll just pull it through the nut if you load it too high.

Someone correct me if I'm wrong, It's been a while since I looked this up.

If you need metric, go with 10.9, I believe they are comparable with grade 8.

9.8  ~ grade 5

8.8 ~ better than no grade english, not as good as grade 5

 

[jeepsquire]

I'd recomend grade 8

Stainless bolts are not that strong,
if it's got zinc plate on it, it's most likely not grade 8.
Allen head socket bolts are quite strong, just tend to strip the socket.

Stick with grade 8 hex head.  Paint them because they will rust and look ugly.

Make sure you get grade 8 nuts to go with them.   Plain nuts are only like a grade 5 or less.  You won't loose a bolt, you'll just pull it through the nut if you load it too high.

Someone correct me if I'm wrong, It's been a while since I looked this up.

If you need metric, go with 10.9, I believe they are comparable with grade 8.

9.8  ~ grade 5

8.8 ~ better than no grade english, not as good as grade 5

Are you saying that I should add a nut?  the stock bolts are threaded into the frame.

 

[beaker]

As for a nut, Sorry, My cherokee had bolts and nuts to attach the hooks.  I have no idea on a wrangler if a nut is needed or not.  If the holes are threaded, I would not think one is necessary.

 

[jeepsquire]

As for a nut, Sorry, My cherokee had bolts and nuts to attach the hooks.  I have no idea on a wrangler if a nut is needed or not.  If the holes are threaded, I would not think one is necessary.

Ahh, makes sense now.  :grinyes:  I was out looking at it last night trying to figure out how to get a nut inside the frame.  :rotflmao:

 

[graves14]

i just put my towhooks on yesterday.  They are 1/2" 13 pitch and i picked up grade 8 hardware from the local hardware store for about $1/each.  good enough.  the rears can only accept a 1.5" bolt but that had plenty of thread for me to feel safe.

pk

 

[JeepinMaxx]

Pat - you finally put on the tow hooks!  I should have given you the 1/2 x 13 bolts when I gave you the towhooks.  I hope the hardtop worked out well for the winter.  Give me a call on the carb issues

Back on topic - I'm pretty sure the TJ's bumper / tow hook mounts have a metric thread.  I'll check tomorow.