Overkill recovery?

[junkyardbiker]

So I happened across a giant off load hook at the scrapyard on base today where im stationed, turns out you can buy stuff out of there for scrap weight prices. $5 later, Im back at the shop working on this

 

[junkyardbiker]

I figured if I ever break that then Rex is probably totaled at that point hahahaha. The bracket on top has a 75W led light tapped off of the reverse lights. The hook block itself revolves when released, even under load, once you pull the lanyard. Total overkill but adds a good bit of tailgating deterrent haha. Plus its able to go on any other rig on the trail. Nothing irks me more than people using a ball hitch or worse, a shackle put through the bolt hole for a ball hitch.

 

[junkyardbiker]

Considering putting a 12v solenoid actuator on the hitch with a trigger in the cab, so that once Im done towing/being towed I can release the pivot and pull clear to regroup. Eventually when bumpers are in the works there will be front and rear receivers and hopefully I can find a way to include them in the side rock sliders? Many a time in other rigs Ive been sideways and side hitch receivers would have been nice.

 

[Chuckles89]

That hook really looks tough! :sniper:

 

[junkyardbiker]

I have a bad habit of seriously over engineering stuff. I am a machinist in the Navy so I have so much of the best equipment to work with. you should see my coffee cup. Its spun from 281 monel and weighs 5lbs.

 

[KidVermicious]

Many a time in other rigs Ive been sideways and side hitch receivers would have been nice.

I've thought the same thing a couple times. I've thought real seriously about cutting my sliders in half and splicing a piece of reciever in there, or at least a nice burly shackle tab.

 

[junkyardbiker]

Just make sure to tie them in to the frame somehow. Would probably work to just add a brace going to the trans crossmember.