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How do I attach a Gator Jaw to the tow hitch?

Discussion in '3rd Gen. Tacomas (2016-2023)' started by gardenburgers, May 8, 2020.

  1. May 8, 2020 at 4:49 PM
    #1
    gardenburgers

    gardenburgers [OP] Member

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    Pardon the newbie question - trying to learn before I put myself in this situation.

    I just purchased a bubba rope and know the appropriate front recovery point. While I understand that I could purchase a d-ring for the tow hitch, I've seen some recommendations for Gator Jaws instead.

    I looked on this forum and on youtube for examples of how to attach the Gator Jaw to the tow hitch, which appears to be the only valid rear recovery point, but I've only been able to find examples of people wrapping the Gator Jaw around the hitch pin. I'm not totally sure that's optimal. Does anyone have an example of how to use a Gator Jaw with the hitch? Or should I just buy a d-ring and skip the Gator Jaws?
     
  2. May 8, 2020 at 4:52 PM
    #2
    joeyv141

    joeyv141 Well-Known Member

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    I would just buy a nice solid d ring, I've use mine multiply times off and on road, I think mine is rugged ridge.
     
  3. May 8, 2020 at 4:57 PM
    #3
    mutely

    mutely Well-Known Member

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    You should still use the hitch recovery male “thingy” in the tow hitch, you just use the gator jaw instead of the D ring. Personally I’d use a D ring in this situation.

    upload_2020-5-8_18-54-22.jpg
     
  4. May 8, 2020 at 5:05 PM
    #4
    Citizen Rob

    Citizen Rob Well-Known Member

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  5. May 8, 2020 at 5:11 PM
    #5
    gardenburgers

    gardenburgers [OP] Member

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    Thanks for the recommendation. If I get a shackle, do I even need a Gator Jaw? I was assuming I can just attach the bubba rope directly.
     
  6. May 8, 2020 at 5:22 PM
    #6
    Citizen Rob

    Citizen Rob Well-Known Member

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    If you've already got a soft shackle, keep it. Now you'll have an option between using a soft or hard shackle. You should also invest in some kinetic rope. If you get stuck, it's pretty considerate and very good karma if you've already got your rope out and hooked up to your recovery point. Use the gator jaw to attach your rope to the other persons vehicle.
     

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