Tow hooks for 2005 Ranger

[aib4133]

I have a 2005 Ranger 4WD. I ordered some front end tow hooks and went to install them and they won't fit with the valence. Do I have any other options other than getting a new bumper and valence? I assume if I had to get an edge bumper it would be easy enough to instal but its frustrating that Ford makes it so difficult to add basic equipment to a 4WD truck. Thanks

 

[Uncle Gump]

Maybe just trim the valance so they fit?

 

[09fx4guy]

x2

Either cut the valence you have or buy a replacement that is designed to fit with tow hooks. You can probably find the whole setup at a junkyard or through an aftermarket supplier

 

[Curious Hound]

I have a 2005 Ranger 4WD. I ordered some front end tow hooks and went to install them and they won't fit with the valence. Do I have any other options other than getting a new bumper and valence? I assume if I had to get an edge bumper it would be easy enough to instal but its frustrating that Ford makes it so difficult to add basic equipment to a 4WD truck. Thanks

They didn't design it to be difficult to add equipment. They designed it to be a certain way. They designed other trucks to have tow hooks. So the parts exist and are available. You just have to figure out what you need to do to get your desired result. Ford can't and won't design for every possible modification. That's not their job. This is really pretty basic. If you think that's difficult, don't ever try something like this.

 

[Curious Hound]

They didn't design it to be difficult to add equipment. They designed it to be a certain way. They designed other trucks to have tow hooks. So the parts exist and are available. You just have to figure out what you need to do to get your desired result. Ford can't and won't design for every possible modification. That's not their job. This is really pretty basic. If you think that's difficult, don't ever try something like this.

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Ok. As I think about what I wrote above, I realize it may sound a little bit harsh to some people. That was not my intent. So please don't let that turn you away.

The fact is, you are entering the world of modifications and customizing. It can be challenging and that is part of what interests many of us. You have many parts and pieces to choose from. Some from "the store" some from the junk yard, Craigslist, FB Marketplace, etc.or even manufacture your own parts. Your imagination is the only limit you will ever really experience. Every project involves compromises between what you want, what you're willing to pay for and what you have the skills, tools and time to accomplish.

So, in your tow hook project; you can order and buy new parts or buy used parts or modify the parts you already have. This is a good simple beginning project to learn on and grow your skills. Then you're ready for a more challenging project.

Good luck and please share pictures of it when you're finished.

 

[Dirtman]

Some rangers from that era can't have tow hooks. There is a crossmember peice they attach to that is not on all trucks. Ask me how I know...

 

[Roert42]

My 2011 doesn't have the cross member either, it's a 2WD, but some 2WD had it and some didn't.

 

[Dirtman]

From my understanding 98-2011 trucks only had that crossmember on the front of the frame on torsion bar trucks regardless of 2wd or 4wd. For some reason coil spring trucks didn't get that extra piece.

I guess torsion bars just put more stress on the front of the frame?

 

[Curious Hound]

From my understanding 98-2011 trucks only had that crossmember on the front of the frame on torsion bar trucks regardless of 2wd or 4wd. For some reason coil spring trucks didn't get that extra piece.

I guess torsion bars just put more stress on the front of the frame?

Make one.