Would anyone be able to tell me the actual thread size of the front towing eye, as well as somewhere I could buy a bolt the same size from?

I am planning on fitting a tow strap as boost pipes make it impossible to fit the original towing eye.

I would like to use a bolt to hold the strap in place nice and firmly should the day come I require a tow.

I have been to a screws/bolts/fastener sort of place however they were unable to help me. Apparently they didn't stock that size... Internet searches have also proved to be fruitless.

I was told the thread needed was "18mm with a 2.5mm pitch" and obviously left handed. That makes it an M16 size bolt, is that correct?

My other option should the 'shop bought' bolt method prove to be too much hassle is to saw the thread off the towing eye, cut a big cross in it and screw it in place. Either that or weld a bolt head onto the towing eye thread.

I have seen pictures of people drilling through the towing eye slot and fixing a bolt through the hole, secured with a nut on the other end. I'd rather not start drilling holes in the car just yet.

Any suggestions / advice is much appreciated.

JRJG

You can drill through the towing eye bolt itself rather than drill through the car. No need to weld, you can use a bar/screw driver/whatever through the hole to screw it in before bolting your strap through it.

 

The thread on mine was so full of muck/rust I suspect its never coming out again, but I added some threadlock to be sure

You can drill through the towing eye bolt itself rather than drill through the car. No need to weld, you can use a bar/screw driver/whatever through the hole to screw it in before bolting your strap through it.

As in: chop the thread from the towing eye, leave an inch or so on it, then drill through that inch to fit a bolt through it? Is it thick enough to remain strong with a hold drilled through it?

JRJG

As in: chop the thread from the towing eye, leave an inch or so on it, then drill through that inch to fit a bolt through it? Is it thick enough to remain strong with a hold drilled through it?

JRJG

 

Yes, though I left a bit more. I'll let you know when I end up in the gravel

 

I followed one of Hutchy's designs which I believe have been tried and tested.