SLROC Forum

Looking to go on Sundays GRR with my (relatively new to me) D3.  Haven't been off road with it yet (and not looking to get stuck either) but does anyone know whether the cars original loop located behind the front panel is up to the job of acting as a serious  recovery point. 

I know the D2's wasn't really and usually had to be upgraded (particularly as the bracket corroded as it got older)

Duncan

 Hi
 I do quite a lot of recovery work & it is my experience the Tow Eyes fitted on modern vehicles are just that, ie they are designed & intended for light towing duties on tarmac roads. They are not intended for any kind of serious recovery tasks.
 They are specifically not considered acceptable for recovery in motor sports activities where they may encounter shock loadings well in excess of their design strength. I have seen these tow points ripped out or at least distorted during recovery operations.
 I would suggest you consider installing proper recovery tow points available from specialist suppliers rather than damage your own vehicle.

Cheers

I'll have to do a bit of research for the future - there's not a lot to see when you get the cover off and while the loop looks more substantial than other models, I wasn't convinced about where it's attached when I can't see it. - hence the question

Problem is I cant see anyhting off the shelf for the D3 without having to hack the bumper about

Duncan

Saw this picture of the D3 Chassis on another forum

 Hi
 I think the picture answers your question for you, the tow eye illustrated looks only fit for light towing & not serious recovery as might be required in an off road situation. If the towing vehicle gives a bit of slack in the rope & then sets off rapidly you may experience a severe pain in the wallet at best. I would suggest it would be sensible to invest in a purpose built tow bracket.  If you check your owners hand book for the Disco I suspect it may give advice to that effect ie for towing duties only. I reckon your Disco will weigh around 2500 kg at least.

 Allan

The towing eye is more than up to the job trust me i had mine winched out a gully with it

 Hi Gaz
 I can assure you the loads imposed by a slow steady winch pull are much less onerous than that imposed by any form of snatch pull compounded by an enthusiastic tow operator. I have seen the damage that can be incurred and I always attach to a substantial part of the casualty vehicle. The user handbook always points out that these standard tow points are for towing only & not for recovery.
 I am however glad that your vehicle came out undamaged.

 Regards
 Allan

I have used the front and rear recovery points on several occasions with strops, kinetics and winches, they are man enough.

Hence why you probably cannot find an aftermarket solution.