I am buying a 2004 TJ and I need to put a trailer hitch on it.  I have seen many jeeps with trailer hitches but none with one and the rear tow hook. I asked the dealer about it and they said the tow hook is not needed with the hitch bolted to the frame.  Is this strong enough to use like that?  What about a rear bumper with a 2" receiver built in, is this any stronger?  What are the problems with either system? I pull a boat most weekends during the summer, and I would also get a bicycle holder for it as well.

any info would be helpfull

thank you,

Rick 

I would suggest the bumper with receiver (and 2 points for 'D' rings).  Putting a MOPAR hitch on will lower your attack angle in the rear, and hang you up on the trail (done it).

Might as well put a front bumper on with 2" receiver at the same time.  It makes launching your boat much easier.  

The 2" reciever can also be used to mount a winch.

Pete  

You could go either way on this, a bumper with a spot for d-rings if you want the versatility of a d-ring on both sides of the bumper, or you could go with the hitch that has side attachments to the frame, witch is stronger and you can still buy a reciver hitch d-ring.