two versions of Explorer Sport rear tow hooks?

[toypaseo]

After a long wait for a Explorer Sport rear tow hook to show up in the junkyard I goto, I finally get one. After getting it home, checking to see if it fits, and wire brushing it, I notice it is different than the one that was for sale by Stic-o a while back.

Stic-o:

Props to IAmTodd for the pic.


Mine:

Kinda odd there would be mutiple versions of the same hook :scratch:

Any strength benefits of either design?

Would additional welding strengthen the version I have?

 

[steelo1]

Are they "recovery rated" i.e. safe for use with snatch trap?
Never seen any thing like them over here, look good, at the moment I just use my recovery hook thats made for the Hayman Reese (Ford heavy duty tow-pac 2800kgm) tow bar.

 

[IAmTodd]

That picture of mine has been used everywhere! I wasn't aware there were different versions either. What model year did this come off of?

 

[toypaseo]

I think I pulled it off of a 95-97...

 

[dogfriend]

My 97 had the "mine" version. I sold it a long time ago because I installed a Draw Tite hitch.

 

[GRNMACHINE]

I have never seen towhooks on 95.

 

[toypaseo]

Pulled off of this 97 Explorer Sport...