Chatman

I have a base 2007 Z51 and I've had an LG front tow hook laying about for a few months. Two days of rain forecast so I thought that I would try to install it. First, I deserve the front hook install merit badge. That is a PIA job but thanks to the resources here, I managed it. One especially interesting observation by a prior installer, was that there is a removable section on the front grill, just right for a tow hook. It is on the passenger side. His was also an early C6. To that evidence in support of a tow hook option or from the factory install, I will add that the rear of the styrofoam bumper has a recess just about right for a welded on front tow hook and it is in the right place. It is a bit small for the LG but I saw no other reason for it to be there and there isn't one on the driver's side.
If you are going to install an LG front tow hook, you will need to move as far toward the fender as you can - ignore the existing hole on the bottom of your beam. You will need to drill all new holes and remember that you must leave space to wedge a vertical piece of the bumper assembly between your tow hook and the body of the car. But get close. I got as close as I could. Here is the result before I have had a chance to clean the car. Notice that the removable piece even has a zip tie so you don't lose it.

exracer28

Export cars had tow hook

StayinStock

You arent kidding on the pain in the *** part, GM didnt make it easy. The ribbing that blocks access was a nightmare to get out. Worth the struggle though! If your looking for a hook upgrade ZL1 add-ons and Raceseng (their kit for the alfa romeo 4c is a perfect fit) both make nice options. The LG hook is pretty janky for the money the kit costs.

Torqued Off

What is the purpose?

StayinStock

Lots or run groups for track days require a hook. Its so they can safely tow you off track without having to crawl under the car to hook up. Me personally it makes loading and unloading from my trailer a breeze too.

robert.m.kalis

I would paint it black to help disguise it if it was mine. Detracts from the cars looks. Like a pretty girl with a nose ring

StayinStock

To each their own I suppose. I personally like chicks with nose rings and cars with tow hooks... their usually the ones who get driven...

Side Note: each group has their own rules but some groups require red for visibility

PAPAYOYO

For all that want a license plate in front. You can use that tow hook and buy plate adapter for it

StayinStock

also true, Raceseng makes a really nice setup for theirs.

JasonAndrew

To get dragged out of the hole or ditch after a crash on the track. Some think it looks cool or is a "mod".

StayinStock

Why can't it be both? Lol

Chatman

The LG model permanent part (female/receiver end) extends as far as the black grill. So, even though there is a nice, removeable section in the grill, you have to remove it permanently. I cut a section out of the removeable part for the LG and glued the pieces back on each side. With the hook removed it is nearly invisible (black like the grill) and would be less visible with a cap for the 5/8ths hole. Or you can leave the hook threaded in. I do prefer StayInStock's D-style hook and will consider that option but I will probably install it as needed, track days or if flat bedded..I will leave it in for a few days to reward myself.

About removing the corrugated pieces in the box beam, I had a flat pry bar (18 inches or so) and it only took a few hammer whacks on the curved end of the flat pry bar inserted under the spot welded segment to pop the corrogated pieces loose. I had more trouble getting the first couple nuts started - wrenches taped together, washer and nut taped into the end, etc. I did use a wood clamp to hold the receiving part in place and some tape on the bolts from the bottom to keep them from falling out (tape on the part instide the LG piece).

Corvette_Dez

Why tow a car that's made to be driven?

STLC6

+25whp

Corvette_Dez

Good point. That's a minimum!

StayinStock

Cause driving home from the racetrack with faded brakes is sketchy.

Silver c6 z-51

I put one on my car years ago just for a racier look. Ended up needing it at least three times with flatbed towing and a winch when i blew up my transmission.

449er

I don't want a shackle in plain sight hanging on my car, I had a 2 piece nylon bridle made up that attaches to your frame tie down points & is long enough to end about 12" in front of the car with a steel ring attaching the straps for a tow truck hook

oldcanuck

I've noticed that age is often a factor in tow hooks. I can also understand the need if tracked. Many of the under 40 in my neighborhood have small imports with annoying silly sounding exhaust and tow hooks. None are tracked. The next door boy has a little Nissan with a huge graphic on the windshield and an orange tow hook sticking out the front. I call it the clown car. My Vette is plain as in stock.

Corvette_Dez

Lmao