Help removing tow hooks, SSO Slimline, 2017 TRP Pro

[molokai_4Runner]

(Im new to the forum, if this should be on the Problems and Warranty Forum I will move it)

I have a 2017 TRD Pro, Southern Offroad Slimline front bumper. I'm trying to remove the tow hooks to have them painted but there are locked (likely rust). I've tried the usual (hitting both with PB Blaster, yarding hard on them with a screwdriver in the pin hole) but no luck. Afraid to torque too hard on it and somehow damage the bumper itself.

Any ideas would be greatly appreciated!

 

[samwhich]

If you have a hammer drill or impact see if you can attach it to the "bolt head" end and zip it off. Or air hammer the flat end while trying to turn the other end to see if that breaks stuff loos enough to spin. It needs some tappy and spinny action at the same time to break loose.

 

[Inv4drZm]

Large breaker bar/long crescent wrench and lots of torque on the right side.

Or drill out the bolt from the left side.

Torch it if only because you are angry at this point and want to see it melt into a puddle.

 

[Mutant138]

Mall crawling strikes back.

 

[kso818]

Air hammer on the end while trying to twist it. Need hammer time while twisting like Samwhich said. If you don't have an air hammer...id say blow torch if you are good with one. If not you will probably mess the powder coat up.

Could maybe find a long thick punch/pry bar that tapers down small enough to fit into the whole. Something like this...https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1GCEV_en&biw=1707&bih=846&tbm=shop&ei=huFVXc7bEqKp_Qb85rqwCg&q=long+punch+pry+bar&oq=long+punch+pry+bar&gs_l=psy-ab.3...5242.9740.0.9879.0.0.0.0.0.0.0.0..0.0....0...1c.1.64.psy-ab..0.0.0....0.4a5tEIR8g2k

Then put a pipe over it and use some torque.

 

[boyguan]

fyi the bolts are only suppose to be finger tight, use a zip tie to tight it onto the shackle.

 

[molokai_4Runner]

GREAT forum and THANKS to all the helpful replies. I'll give those suggestions a shot and report back. And yes, I have my torch ready as a last resort

 

[Mutant138]

GREAT forum and THANKS to all the helpful replies. I'll give those suggestions a shot and report back. And yes, I have my torch ready as a last resort

You're welcome.

 

[STLDAVE]

Righty tighty, lefty loosey, lol.

 

[ryguytheman]

I would throw a cloth/towel between the D-ring and the bumper to protect it, put a screwdriver through the hole, and whack it with a rubber mallet.