snatch straps

[Brian32]

thinking about buying one for winter and i was wondering what kind of set-up i need to use one... my 4runner is stock so i still have the tow hook in front...is it ok to use that?...if i came upon a car the was stuck in the snow would it be ok pull them out?

 

[snowbrdr033]

You should be fine if you had to pull someone out with the front hook. I've both yanked others and been yanked out myself a few times and never had any issues with the hook!

 

[TheTuckerTaxi]

Front hook? Do you guys mean the two loops attached to the frame in the front? They are technically tie down points used for restraining your vehicle (4th gen - not sure about the others) when it is being towed.

People do use them for recovery but they weren't designed for the forces used in recovering stuck vehicles so be careful. If you want a front recovery point you either need to get a tow hitch for the front or an aftermarket bumper.

 

[Pikeman]

thinking about buying one for winter and i was wondering what kind of set-up i need to use one... my 4runner is stock so i still have the tow hook in front...is it ok to use that?...if i came upon a car the was stuck in the snow would it be ok pull them out?

Never pull a vehicle in Reverse. If you are being recovered from the snow then yes the front hook is adequate 99% of the time. If you are the one pulling someone else out, hook the strap to the back of your vehicle and pull them while you are driving forward. Make sure the strap says "recovery or Snatch" somewhere on it and not "tow". Snatch or recovery straps are designed to stretch and then recoil helping in the recovery while also minimizing shock load to the vehicles. A Tow strap will not stretch and transfers all the shock to both vehicles and is more prone to breaking.