Bumpers and recovery hooks

[DesertCanyons]

Reading another thread today about putting a Shrockworks front bumper on stock suspension a few questions came up. I'm looking forward to replacing my 95 Jeep GC with a new T4R TE. I don't find specific details or spec's on the Toyota website or any of the reviews I've read. That's why I'm here.

¿ On the 5th gen 4R Trail Edition are there tow hooks or recovery hooks ? I haven't seen any evidence of them in any of the photos, specs or literature. I don't see anywhere to attach them on the decorative plastic bumper. Recovery hooks are really useful for getting an assist or pulling others out as well as moving logs or big rocks (I've done this to clear a road). Adding a Shrockworks, BudBuild or ARB front bumper would provide these recovery points. Hooks are occasionally needed in the back too.

I've learned from reading here that adding larger tires increases ground clearance under the axles and frame. Upgrading the suspension can increase approach, break over and departure angles a bit while making it easier to add larger tires. Upgrading the front bumper will increase the approach angle a lot while providing a rugged front end that won't break the first time you ding a fender.

Does anyone know if aftermarket steel rear bumpers reduce the overhang, increasing the Departure Angle for better clearance? ARB makes a sturdy looking rear bumper that also offers a rear spare tire rack that looks stout. I see the tow hitch in the photo too so it can tow a trailer, but that lowers the back clearance. I can't tell from the photos or description if it's added over the stock bumper or if the original bumper is cut back or removed to install the ARB. The big OEM back step is gone so maybe the bumper is removed?

The original stock bumpers are plastic, right? That's not very durable for scraping over rocks and dirt.

Do these front bumpers require modification to the air bag sensors? Does anyone know how the sensors work in the front? Will having a much stiffer bumper reduce the activation/sensitivity for the air bags? Air bags are an important safety device for on-road travel. I wouldn't want to compromise their operation.

Any comments on these questions would be much appreciated. Thanks.
:help:

 

[Intruder]

On the 5th gen 4R Trail Edition are there tow hooks or recovery hooks ? I haven't seen any evidence of them in any of the photos, specs or literature. I don't see anywhere to attach them on the decorative plastic bumper. Recovery hooks are really useful for getting an assist or pulling others out as well as moving logs or big rocks (I've done this to clear a road).

There are two recovery points on the front underneath and behind the bumper. There's one on the driver's side rear, but you're better of getting a receiver shackle instead.

Adding a Shrockworks, BudBuild or ARB front bumper would provide these recovery points. Hooks are occasionally needed in the back too.

Actually, the ARB doesn't have front recovery point. Instead it has a couple of gaps that allow access to the frame mounted points.

Does anyone know if aftermarket steel rear bumpers reduce the overhang, increasing the Departure Angle for better clearance? ARB makes a sturdy looking rear bumper that also offers a rear spare tire rack that looks stout. I see the tow hitch in the photo too so it can tow a trailer, but that lowers the back clearance. I can't tell from the photos or description if it's added over the stock bumper or if the original bumper is cut back or removed to install the ARB. The big OEM back step is gone so maybe the bumper is removed?

I didn't know ARB made a rear bumper for the 5th gens. CBI, Bud Built, Shrockworks, Hefty Fab, and I think one other make rear bumpers for them. Departure angle benefits probably depend on the specific bumper. You'll probably still drag them on occasion, but steel takes the abuse better than stock plastic.

Do these front bumpers require modification to the air bag sensors? Does anyone know how the sensors work in the front? Will having a much stiffer bumper reduce the activation/sensitivity for the air bags? Air bags are an important safety device for on-road travel. I wouldn't want to compromise their operation.

None of them modify the sensors. The ARB bumper has crush cans that reduce the possibility of the airbags deploying in a minor collision though. So basically with a steel front bumper it's debatably more likely that the airbags will deploy.

 

[BlackWorksInc]

The 5th gen 4Runner has recovery points, though they aren't meant for regular duty, they can be used to recover from. There is one on the rear of the frame on the driver's side and two on the radiator crossmember in the front. The aftermarket bumpers will provide a much stronger mounting point through which the recovery points can be used (with weight distributed through strong brackets mounted to a larger section of the frame) and would be more beneficial for regular use in my opinion.

The simplest and easiest way to increase ground clearance (for a "hybrid" vehicle like the 5th Gen 4Runner that has a Solid Axle in the rear and IFS in the front, the lowest point will be the bottom of the differentials) is tires as they will effectively raise the height of the space between your lowest point and the ground. Other modifications such as suspension and body lifts are needed to fit larger tires and gain performance from the tires. So basically tires give you a large majority of the lift, while the suspension allows you to actually use that lift effectively. Though if you are planning on adding a lot of weight such as front and/or rear bumpers I would highly recommend a beefier suspension as it will tax a stock set-up quickly.

Most of the aftermarket bumpers have better approach angles both front and rear than stock, but much like the 4th gen (of which the 5th gen has a near identical frame) the 5th gen's rear approach angle is limited by the rear crossmember as most rear bumpers integrate a hitch into their design which has to bolt under said crosmember. A fabrication shop may be able to modify the crossmember and build a hitch into the crossmember as one or two 4th gen owners have had done, but that's a bit of money and would then require a custom made bumper.

The factory bumpers are large aluminum square tube stock, what most people see as "bumpers" on modern vehicles is actually the decorative bumper covers; which are a plastic skin used to hide the typically aluminum bumper bar and foam padding. They get scratched up easily as you mentioned, though if you don't scrape rocks it shouldn't be an issue.

The SRS impact sensors are frame mounted, they do not have to be modified. Though adding a full metal bumper will reduce the "crumple zone" designed by the factory, which means that more inertia will be transferred into the cabin in the event of an accident. Though based on people who have wrecked their modified 4Runners all the way from 3rd to 5th gens have not noticed a significant change in SRS functionality as a result. The airbags may deploy at a lower than original desired speed in the event of an accident as a result of inertia transferred into the cabin (i.e. the SRS module may think an impact at 35mph "feels" as strong as one at 40mph in a stock vehicle, these are abstract numbers and there is no significant data to really give you besides empirical data provided by those who did get in accidents and lived with minor injuries.)

We talked about it a bit in this thread:
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/179822-maybe-end-mebe4runnings-reign.html

 

[bimrunner]

The only way to increase departure angle is to cut the rear cross member out so you can get the rear tucked in more. I Think hefty fab and 4x4 labs are the only two that do it this way but I could be wrong. I've been very happy with my departure angles but have still dragged a few times. But, that's what it was built for!

 

[DesertCanyons]

Recovery hooks and rear bumpers

There are two recovery points on the front underneath and behind the bumper. There's one on the driver's side rear, but you're better of getting a receiver shackle instead.

Wow, thanks for the info. As I said, you can't find that in any of the Toyota spec's. Those have got to be really low to clear the front bumper. What I have now protrudes through the bumper just below the main frontal piece, through the lower 7 vent openings. You can reach them by just bending over.

Actually, the ARB doesn't have front recovery point. Instead it has a couple of gaps that allow access to the frame mounted points.

Good to know. I will have to look more closely. Most of the off-road front bumpers have thick vertical flat bars sticking out with shackle holes for a U-shackle. More work to hook up but more secure.

I didn't know ARB made a rear bumper for the 5th gens. CBI, Bud Built, Shrockworks, Hefty Fab, and I think one other make rear bumpers for them. Departure angle benefits probably depend on the specific bumper. You'll probably still drag them on occasion, but steel takes the abuse better than stock plastic.

Yes, I was looking at the ARB last night. Nothing special except for the spare tire mount. These you list are all good. I haven't seen the Hefty Fab yet.

None of them modify the sensors. The ARB bumper has crush cans that reduce the possibility of the airbags deploying in a minor collision though. So basically with a steel front bumper it's debatably more likely that the airbags will deploy.

Good to know. Thanks.
Dave

 

[03_4x4Runner]

I see the op is in California. Are you going to off road in the desert? If so the factory tow hooks can be a joke. They are not like your Jeep. If you get the front tires in a rut and need a tow the front bumper can be close to the ground and you will have to try to reach under there to reach the tow hook. They also are not very beefy like your Jeep. I think they were more for tieing down the 4runner for shipment. If you off road much in the desert other than graded fire roads you will quickly learn you need more ground clearance for the rocks and ruts. If you add a 2 inch taller tire you will only gain 1 inch more clearance. I have not lifted my 14 yet but nothing made my 03 4runner more off road worthy in the desert than the 3 inch lift. With the lift you could go places a stock height 4runner would be dragging over the rocks especially under the front differential.

 

[Intruder]

I think they were more for tieing down the 4runner for shipment.

Disagree. I've been recovered and recovered other vehicles more times than I can count using them. If they were bolted on I'd say they were tie-down points.

 

[Jeremy556]

Disagree. I've been recovered and recovered other vehicles more times than I can count using them. If they were bolted on I'd say they were tie-down points.

Agreed, and same here.

They are loops (not hooks) that go through a frame cross member and are welded on both sides of the crossmember. Their physical placement is not ideal, especially with an SR5/Limited, but they are plenty strong.

 

[NoDak]

the front tie downs on the LE are a joke. there is no way to use them w/o tearing up the front air dam period. the rear tie down is somewhat better access but again, its sit above the lowest part of the rear bodywork like the front.

my only hope is that if I go in the ditch I go front first since I will remove the tow ball and insert the hitch loop in case I need to be pulled out during the winter.

 

[3wbdriver]

the front tie downs on the LE are a joke. there is no way to use them w/o tearing up the front air dam period.

So maybe that ugly ass nose does have it's advantages?



We used it to drag me out of this ditch a few months ago. Thankfully I had attached the strap first because several people in front of us had trouble with the same ditch.



Would I use them as an attachment point to do a snatch type recovery? Probably not. But if used prudently with steady pressure they are strong enough for most recoveries.

 

[Intruder]

Would I use them as an attachment point to do a snatch type recovery? Probably not.

I have lots. Even to recover a Land Cruiser. The strap is going to break before the hoop does, unless you're using a strap that's rated way too high. Around 8,000 kg is right for our trucks.

Edit: And a strap with some good stretch is key. ARB and TJM are the best actual straps I've used for having stretch. Bubba ropes are nice too - don't own one myself but I've been recovered by one.

 

[DesertCanyons]

I have lots. Even to recover a Land Cruiser. The strap is going to break before the hoop does, unless you're using a strap that's rated way too high. Around 8,000 kg is right for our trucks.

Edit: And a strap with some good stretch is key. ARB and TJM are the best actual straps I've used for having stretch. Bubba ropes are nice too - don't own one myself but I've been recovered by one.

Thanks for all of the great info everyone.
BlackWorks, your description of ground clearance is what I understood from reading a lot of posts here. The aluminum cross member does not sound stout enough for a good bumper and tow hitch. Replacing it is the right approach.
Bimrunner, I looked for the two manufacturers. Hefty Fab doesn't have anything on its website for Toyota 4Rs. 4x4 Labs has a great looking system, with the tow hitch tucked up high and a swing arm for the spare tire.
03-4x4Runner, Yes, I'm in So Cal. Some of the desert roads are challenging for the ground clearance and approach/departure angles. On the 4R the rear bumpers seem to be the limiting factor for getting over boulders and steep incline approaches or departures. The rear bumper sticks way out there. I think you need the lift and the tires to increase ground clearance. I understand you need better suspension to handle the larger tires and added weight of aftermarket bumpers and a winch.
Intruder, Jeremy556 and NoDak, The loops are stronger than hooks, not being open on one side. Still, they are very low. I'd hate to have to look for them in the middle of a stream crossing. Yes, the low front cowling on the LE or SR5 could be damaged by using them. They may be more for towing than for recovery.
3wbdriver, thanks for the photo. It's worth a thousand words. Every picture tells a story, don't it? The front cowling, or bumper is higher on the Trail Edition than the LE or SR5 but it's still fairly close to the hoops. These hoops look like the lowest forward point on the car and will be the first thing to scrape on a rocky road. I can't believe you let that shallow little mud puddle stop you. lol - I definitely wouldn't want to go looking for a low hoop in that mud.
Intruder, I see you've used these recover hoops a lot. It looks like you have an aftermarket front bumper too. Those can have much more useful recovery shackles. Just FYI, I have a recovery strap for my Jeep. Bad thing is, it has steel hook ends, not strap loop ends. Steel strap hooks are very dangerous if they come loose when pulling. Whenever anyone assists me in holding the strap hook up to the hooks of my Jeep, as soon as there's enough tension to hold it in place, I ask them to stand back as far as the strap is long and not in the line of the strap, in case it does snap loose. I really need to replace that strap. It would be fine for a tree-saver strap where the strap is wrapped around something solid.
Thanks to everyone for your comments. This info helps a lot. I'll be looking for new bumpers before I go very far with my next car, a 4Runner.

 

[1engineer]

I see the op is in California. Are you going to off road in the desert? If so the factory tow hooks can be a joke. They are not like your Jeep. If you get the front tires in a rut and need a tow the front bumper can be close to the ground and you will have to try to reach under there to reach the tow hook. They also are not very beefy like your Jeep. I think they were more for tieing down the 4runner for shipment. If you off road much in the desert other than graded fire roads you will quickly learn you need more ground clearance for the rocks and ruts. If you add a 2 inch taller tire you will only gain 1 inch more clearance. I have not lifted my 14 yet but nothing made my 03 4runner more off road worthy in the desert than the 3 inch lift. With the lift you could go places a stock height 4runner would be dragging over the rocks especially under the front differential.

You really need to read your owner's manual a bit before you go making assumptions. They are recovery points and they are damn strong. We went through this with several people a few years ago. Just read the manual.

 

[03_4x4Runner]

You really need to read your owner's manual a bit before you go making assumptions. They are recovery points and they are damn strong. We went through this with several people a few years ago. Just read the manual.

I did not mean to piss you off, just giving my opinion. The 4runner still needs more traditional easy access tow hooks from the factory in my opinion especially a Trail and Pro version. When you are stuck in a deep snow bank or deep sand and have to dig out just to get to the tow hook you will see what I mean. It seems Toyota could easily make a tow hook for the 4runner like my friends TRD Tacoma.

 

[Intruder]

They may be more for towing than for recovery.

Nope, they're for recovery though they aren't in the best spot.

Intruder, I see you've used these recover hoops a lot. It looks like you have an aftermarket front bumper too. Those can have much more useful recovery shackles.

ARB doesn't put recovery points on their bumpers and it's the bumper I chose for various other reasons.

Just FYI, I have a recovery strap for my Jeep. Bad thing is, it has steel hook ends, not strap loop ends. Steel strap hooks are very dangerous if they come loose when pulling. Whenever anyone assists me in holding the strap hook up to the hooks of my Jeep, as soon as there's enough tension to hold it in place, I ask them to stand back as far as the strap is long and not in the line of the strap, in case it does snap loose. I really need to replace that strap. It would be fine for a tree-saver strap where the strap is wrapped around something solid.

Toss that thing in the trash and stop using it for recoveries asap! You're going to hurt or kill someone. It isn't a recovery strap, it's a tow strap. Don't even use it as a tree saver. Throw it out or only use it to flat tow another vehicle on the road. Get yourself a proper recovery strap - they have some elasticity to them and loops on the ends, not hooks.

 

[DesertCanyons]

Low tow loops

I did not mean to piss you off, just giving my opinion.

Yea, let's not piss anyone off here. Especially not an engineer. I should know. I are one.

I don't think your comments were offensive. Everyone has an opinion.

The 4runner still needs more traditional easy access tow hooks from the factory in my opinion especially a Trail and Pro version. When you are stuck in a deep snow bank or deep sand and have to dig out just to get to the tow hook you will see what I mean. It seems Toyota could easily make a tow hook for the 4runner like my friends TRD Tacoma.

I agree. The tow hooks on my 95 Jeep GC are much easier to reach. Granted, the hooks face down which makes the loop slip off if you don't have someone to hold it up until it gets taught. Even the Wrangler has hooks.

The recovery loops on the T4R are below and behind the front bumper cowling, or wind jamb. On the Limited that cowling is very low. Pulling up on the strap is likely to bear on the bumper cowling. And yes, it's hard to reach if the car is down in the mud, a steam, snow or sand. Oh well. It is what it is. I lie the T4R better than a Jeep Rubicon for every day use. I'll probably adapt something or add an off-road bumper with recovery points.

 

[DesertCanyons]

Nope, they're for recovery though they aren't in the best spot.


ARB doesn't put recovery points on their bumpers and it's the bumper I chose for various other reasons.


Toss that thing in the trash and stop using it for recoveries asap! You're going to hurt or kill someone. It isn't a recovery strap, it's a tow strap. Don't even use it as a tree saver. Throw it out or only use it to flat tow another vehicle on the road. Get yourself a proper recovery strap - they have some elasticity to them and loops on the ends, not hooks.

Thanks Intruder,

Yes, the T4R loops are low. With the ARB front bumper you don't have a plastic bumper in the way. Reaching the loops is easier and if the strap pulls in an upward direction it's not likely to bear on anything since the ARB bumper is so high and close in.
I'm taking the strap to the trash tonight. :uzi: I can't see using it for a straight tow either. Although there's lot less tension from towing then there is from pulling out a stuck vehicle. But if the hook snaps or it lets loose, it's going flying towards one of the two vehicles. If it's wrapped around a tree or rock several times it's probably not going anywhere. It may be good in some cases.

Thanks for your reply. Very helpful.

 

[LandCruiser]

I like adding a trailer hitch recovery shackle for all of my 4x4's.