Emergency tow points on 3rd gen 4runner

credit for photo: User-
On the stock 4runners with the base options there aren't many options for tow points. The only thing that resembles a tow point from what I can tell is the tow down point that is in the photo above. The issue with it is 1. Its on the front of the vehicle which makes it not very useable and 2. As it sits, there is not a clear view to the end of the vehicle, the bumper is in the way, so any strap would wrap around the bumper.

What options are there for adding tow hooks? And can I just go out and buy some steel bar and drill holes in it and bolt it on my 4runner to use as a tow hook rather then spend amounts of money buying them from companies?

 

http://www.sonoransteel.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_12&products_id=13

 

That dude is high if he thinks those are worth 150 bucks!

 

https://m.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200658579_200658579
What about something like this? You could even swap out the solid d ring for a 1/2" shackle. Cheap, and I'd think an 11k capacity would be plenty. Just use grade 8 hardware.

 

I have a D-ring couldn't I thread it through my tie down point instead

 

I don't think it would be as strong. I've seen guys remove the tie down point and put a tow hook there as well.

 

The D-ring isn't as strong? Mines rated well above the weight of my vehicle. Also where is the rear tow point, I don't have a trailer hitch

 

I don't think running a shackle thru the tie down point would be as strong as adding a d ring, or actual mount and shackle. I think the tie down point itself would be the weak link. However, I think it would probably suffice in most situations. I have a hitch on mine so that's what I've always used. I just went out and checked but it has the same tie down points on the frame at the rear of the vehicle. I have seen those replaced tow hooks as well.