KL Cherokee Recovery Hooks

The 2013 – current KL Cherokee model does not have recovery hooks fitted unless it is the Trailhawk version which has twin recovery hooks.

All other models are not fitted with a recovery hook. Only the Diesel Cherokee Limited has low range 4WD but does not have a recovery hook and at this time there does not appear to be a solution for this model.

All vehicles attending 4WD trips must be able to be recovered safely and will not be able to attend any MJOC club trips unless suitable recovery hooks are fitted. The screw in tow hook supplied by Jeep is not rated for recovery usage and can not be used for heavy recovery. It is mandatory that a suitable recovery hook is fitted prior to going on a club trip. Owners of non Trailhawk models must research options for a solution and have a rated recovery hook fitted to the front, a tow bar is suitable for rear end recovery when used with correct equipment.

Our understanding is that major modification to the front of non Trailhawk models is required to mount a recovery hook.



Compass and Patriots (and other non low range equipped SUV's)

Most of the compact SUV vehicles such as the Jeep Patriot and Compass (Non Trailhawk) model do not have recovery hooks suitable for recovery. These vehicles are only suited to Easy rated trips because of their low clearance and no Low Range gearing. We do have a modified Patriot in the club which has had the US Specification front bumper, skid plates and recovery hooks specially imported and this vehicle has been doing Medium rated trips. So if you wish to go down this pathway contact our DTU team and we can discuss further.

However the Trailhawk version of the current Compass is equiped for some serious four wheel drive terrain. These are siuited for our Medium rated trips.

All vehicles attending 4WD trips must be able to be recovered safely and will not be able to attend any MJOC club trips unless suitable recovery hooks are fitted. The screw in tow hook supplied by Jeep is not rated for recovery usage and can not be used for heavy recovery. It is mandatory that a suitable recovery hook is fitted prior to going on a club trip.

Prepare your Jeep for Training

You do not need to have a modified vehicle to participate in the training but there is a few items you will need to check before the training.

The club has all the recovery gear that will be used during training so no need to race out and buy anything , yet! This information applies to non-Jeeps participating also.

Before attending training you will need to check a few things as shown below;

• Suitable or rated recovery points front and rear. (most Jeeps have a factory recovery hook on the rear passenger side)
• If you have a tow bar reciever remove the tow ball but leave the holding pin in the receiver. This can be used for recovery at the rear.
• Check your tyre condition and ensure you have reasonable tread depth for wet conditions.
• We also have hand held UHF radios and if you dont have one you can discuss what you need with our trainers before going and purchasing something.
• Check the operation of your 4WD system and Low range operation. Check your owners handbook for instructions on this procedure
• If you car has a low fascia panel at the front such as the WK2 Grand Cherokee you will need to remove the lower section. This is removable. Instructions are in your handbook.
• Any low side steps should alsoo be removed for four wheel drive terrain as they are easily damaged. Rock Sliders are ok.

Owners Of WK Grand Cherokee 2012 – current.

Most WK Grand Cherokee models do not come from the Jeep factory with suitable front recovery hooks for 4×4 activities and recovery.

The earlier 2011 MY models and 2012 MY Trailhawk models were fitted with twin (red) recovery hooks. All others do not have a front recovery hook. It is required by the club that all vehicles that go on club trips must be able to be recovered without damage to humans or vehicles and these vehicles must have a suitable rated recovery hook mounted to the front. The screw in tow hook supplied by Jeep is not rated for recovery usage. It is mandatory that a suitable recovery hook is fitted prior to going on a club trip.

Options available are-

• Genuine Mopar Rated (4,800 KG) Recovery Hook that is fitted to the passenger side behind the small plastic panel in lower fascia and is available from your local Jeep Dealer
• Aftermarket Recovery Hooks are available from
• Off Road Animal
• Chief Products
• Uneek 4X4

 Fit a Bull Bar or Nudge Bar with front pre-runner protection that have recovery hooks as part of the kit. These are available through

• ARB 4X4 Accessories
• Off Road Animal
• Ironman
• TJM
•  Uneek 4x4
• Chief Products

Many of these retailers will give you a Club Member discount on request.

Recovery Bridles

Use of a recovery bridle is not recommended by our training team and we will explain why when you complete your MJOC Training. Some manufactures will try and recommend that one be used for recovery strap use. This is not required for any structural reason, in fact the Mopar recovery hook is a single hook mounted to the chassis and Jeep obviously believe that 2 recovery points are not needed.