Two views of a 1990s Ford truck front end with chrome bumper and…

These factory Ford recovery eyes mount to 3 parts, one of which has no welding or bending. They attach using only their factory fasteners, & those on the truck. The bumper doesn't have to be removed to install them (although it's easier), and they don't interfere with the crumple zones or airbag system. Plus; the tops of the brackets are (optional) light tabs. These eyes were originally used on '97-04 4WD F150s & Expeditions, and some Explorer SportTracs. The '04-up eyes are similar, but fabricated instead of cast.



***UPDATE***
I was worried they might be weak, but they appear to have held up well. One of the prototype thin brackets was bent, but it didn't lose any strength, and I've straightened it out. I'm making all future sets from thicker steel.



I've also had a few sets of eyes powdercoated, and they're for sale.



This same system also fits heavy coil-spring trucks (no crumple zone).



I haven't tried it on a front-leaf truck yet because mine already has a front receiver with large loops.

Owner caption November 2009 · Photo 35 of 434