jp360cj

I have used a homemade receiver shackle mount for probably 10 years on my Jeep with no issues. Mine is actually an eye bolt pressed into a piece of 2x2x1/4 tubing and welded solid. I also know a lot of jeepers who use the store bought ones and never heard of any issues. The 2 things I don't like about the bought ones are 1) most limit you to a 3/4" shackle, and 2) anything other than a completely straight pull starts to sideload the shackle.

STingray1300

I'll use my pin-in-the-receiver in lieu of either of the above noted options, thank you very much...

From an engineering standpoint, there is a way to make a completely safe-to-use recovery hitch, but I haven't seen one referenced here yet.

Hurricane77

I've seen people use just a standard ball mount hitch inserted into the receiver. The difference is that they remove the ball and put a shackle through the hole instead.

Never heard of Crosby Shackles, but they seem to be fairly reasonable priced

Dirttracker18

Shackle should be turned the other way to swing side to side instead of up and down. This eliminates the side load.

DrivebyBob

I've got a tree hugger to use as a bridle as well. But looking at my bumper I was wondering what would happen to my paint if I'm recovered at a less than perfect angle. I went with soft shackles from bubbarope. My thought is the soft shackle material might be easier on the paint versus a metal shackle. I also carry two metal shackles in case the other vehicle needs them. Ditto on the Crosby brand, also take a look at CM shackles. Their working load is a little higher for the same size on their alloy shackles. You might also think about what you'll use as a damper for your strap.

Forgot to add that I use a recovery hitch as well. Again if the recovery is not at a great angle I didn't want the edge of the receiver hitch against my pricey kinetic recovery rope.