does anyone know the easiest way to remove the tow hooks from a 01? I was taking some stuff off the truck today but the socket I have are too big and wont fit in the small space. Can anyone let me know how they did this?

 

I had to use a wrench to remove mine, its a long slow process.

 

thats what I was afraid of

 

WD-40 or some PB blaster or whatevter. Make a cheater bar if you can.

 

i take the grille off, then i can access them that way.

 

ratchet wrench works wonders

 

i blast them off with an impact with a swivel. if you're using hand tools, heat them up first and then remove them. they have locktite on them from the factory

 

I looked up this thread because I am having a real tough time getting the top bolts out on the tow hooks.I already sprayed them down with pb blaster and broken two sockets.. a real pain in the a$$.

 

heat them up

 

^ x2
Even a little propane torch for a few minutes can help break the bond.

 

Use a swivle it will help. Drench in PB or heat with MAP till they are red hot.

 

Dont melt the bolt. If you warp the threads, then you will have to cut it out.

Keep soaking it with PB blaster. Use a nice wrench with some kind of cheater bar.

Dont hurt yourself or catch your truck on fire.

 

lol thanks for the help guys. I would put a wrench on it but it's recessed in about an inch. I am keeping it soaked and hopefully tomorrow i'll take a propane torch to it and see what happens. Can't wait for my new ones. Taylor, too late.. I've already got cuts all over my knuckles from the other bolts, and yes fire + truck =

 

Dang man. Hopefully you will get it tomorrow after letting that stuff soak in prety good.

 

cheater bar / physics wins every time.

 

I've used heat from time to time to get some tow hook bolts out.
but, Breaker bar if you have one and a jack handle. can't beat them.