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I have seen multiple WTB threads for the rear tie down/tow hook and the issues people have sourcing these.
This may be old news, or I may be wrong, but I just came across this item sold by Super Now that appears to be an aftermarket version of the entire hook assembly:
It comes in two styles and a pile of colours and only costs $120 shipped!
We're actually working on a titanium version of these right now.
We were waiting to have a prototype in hand before letting people know - but the timing seems to be appropriate.
As for install with *most* rear diffusers - there would be some trimming expected... but with the RE-A Pro - you could probably get away with not having to trim.
How there isn't a powdercoated version of these available from Sakebomb et al for $40 is beyond me
Seems like such a simple to produce, functional part
How there isn't a powdercoated version of these available from Sakebomb et al for $40 is beyond me
Seems like such a simple to produce, functional part
You're not wrong. I'd be up for a steel version and a lower price point - but on such a lightweight car and the extent people will pay for lightness - titanium makes the most sense. Ever take off your OEM tow hook or weigh some of the aftermarket options? Not game changing - but dropping 10 lbs for a hundred bucks isn't a horrible option. People spend $200 for lug nuts to drop ounces. That said, the "bling" factor also comes into play for titanium, no doubt.
Keep your eyes peeled for a Group Buy Interest thread.
You're not wrong. I'd be up for a steel version and a lower price point - but on such a lightweight car and the extent people will pay for lightness - titanium makes the most sense. Ever take off your OEM tow hook or weigh some of the aftermarket options? Not game changing - but dropping 10 lbs for a hundred bucks isn't a horrible option. People spend $200 for lug nuts to drop ounces. That said, the "bling" factor also comes into play for titanium, no doubt.
Keep your eyes peeled for a Group Buy Interest thread.
I would be interested in a titanium version - always keen to add bling and drop weight
I have one of these as well in aluminum. It’s a nice piece. It’s already pretty light as is, I can’t imagine needing the titanium version unless you just want the look.
I have one of these as well in aluminum. It’s a nice piece. It’s already pretty light as is, I can’t imagine needing the titanium version unless you just want the look.
I guess the thought of weight savings is versus the OEM tow hook(s). The next thought is, for the price SuperNow charges for aluminum - you should be able to get it in titanium.
So similar price point. Tad bit better weight savings. Plus titanium all the things.
... Ever take off your OEM tow hook or weigh some of the aftermarket options? Not game changing - but dropping 10 lbs for a hundred bucks isn't a horrible option....
It's cool. And a nicer looking piece IMO than the stock steel tie-down. But 10 lbs. ? ??
And both are going to be strong in tension, but both seem they'd bend pretty easy with much lateral force.
Ooooh! Maybe you could do burnt titanium finish to match my hood prop
That would be the plan. A little form and little function.
Originally Posted by Sgtblue
It's cool. And a nicer looking piece IMO than the stock steel tie-down. But 10 lbs. ? ??
And both are going to be strong in tension, but both seem they'd bend pretty easy with much lateral force.
Yeeeeeeeah. Probably a bit hyperbole there. I'll post exact weights when we get there.
That's also a good point... a lot of the tow hooks do have that caveat "for towing in a straight line"... but we all know that's not exactly how towing works.
Originally Posted by SpinningDorito
These look nice, but I wish there was a good screw-in type option for our cars, similar to how the tow hooks work on the RX8s.
I haven't poked around the tow hook on an RX-8 - but I assume it has a threaded insert? Where exactly does that connect? I assume bumper support or actually, frame itself? I'm sure it's possible to fabricate something that accepts a threaded insert, but then you need to make sure that sucker is securely mounted.
I haven't poked around the tow hook on an RX-8 - but I assume it has a threaded insert? Where exactly does that connect? I assume bumper support or actually, frame itself? I'm sure it's possible to fabricate something that accepts a threaded insert, but then you need to make sure that sucker is securely mounted.
I've never pulled the bumper on my 8, but I assume it connects to the frame. There are sections of the grill that pop off and expose the inserts. My 08 Miata had a similar system as well. Its nice, because on the front that is also how I mount my license plate.
I know I found an old thread on here a couple of weeks ago where a forum member fabricated some really nice threaded insert mounts for his 7, but something like that is far beyond my skill set.
just installed the SuperNow Type-B version, fits great with the RE pro diffuser, does touch the edge of the gas tank a little but when tightened down isnt an issue. comes with new hardware and took 15 minutes to install
I think most people want the stock tie down because they want to run a specific jdm tow hook that requires the stock rear tow hook.
Copying one is not that easy. The stock tow hook is 3/16" steel that is profile bent around the edges to give it more rigidity. If you were to just cut these out of 3/16" steel you would need to bend the edges for extra lateral rigidity (custom tooling) for it to be equal in strength and weight OR you will need to cut it in a thicker material if you're not going to form them. Which is why Super now's version is thicker, and under notes states, "-make sure to use in a straight line" due to potential damage if lateral forces occur.
However cutting them in a thicker steel without forming them would be the most cost efficient and cheapest but heavier in weight (for those who care). If people don't care about weight I could easily make these.
On the other hand, I've got some supplies that should be here tomorrow to test out a pre-preg hot pressed carbon version
How exactly do I throw cash at you to sell me one?
The only thing I would ask, and it is a VERY specific preference to me - if you do make a batch of these, I would want one with a wider band of the purple color, if one happened to come out that way.
Otherwise, beautiful piece, would love to bolt one on the back of my car
Last edited by FEED AFFLUX v5; Nov 23, 2018 at 03:03 PM.
How exactly do I throw cash at you to sell me one?
The only thing I would ask, and it is a VERY specific preference to me - if you do make a batch of these, I would want one with a wider band of the purple color, if one happened to come out that way.
Otherwise, beautiful piece, would love to bolt one on the back of my car
that towhook piece is made of titanium!!
so your request can and will definitely be done. All purple !
A rear tie down/tow hook option!
