Which do you guys typically use for a recovery? It seems strange not to spread out the load over 2 d rings on my bumper, but since it's attached to the hitch receiver anyway, maybe it doesn't matter?

 

I prefer the recovery loops (aka d rings). They are directly tied into the "frame" (if you would call it that) of the Defender. I generally stay away from the receiver. Certainly, one should NEVER use a tow ball as a recovery point. The amount of force in a recovery is quite astounding and the tow ***** aren't rated for it. If you want to get grossed out, look for some videos of recovery fails from them. I sport a recovery point on my receiver because I am just a red-neck who likes the style points (or anti-style points depending on the viewer). The reality is the recovery points are just bomb proof. I have some "steps" added to mine so I can use them to access the roof rack. They come off with butterfly nuts underneath. Since I access the roof rack overlanding more than I use the recovery loops, the set up works for me.

Back to answering your question from my own personal side bar. I just don't trust the receiver bar for those loads. Here's a screen shot from Simon at PowerfulUk where he's installing the recovery loops from the default/standard threaded points. You can see the aluminum crash bar between them but the recovery loops are located in direct line to the connection into the body. (Links to videos below).



Then there's Justin with Lucky8. Another great vendor with awesome videos. He's showing the install of the receiver. Pull that aluminum bar off (from Simon's video) and put in the receiver. As you note, the recovery loops tie into the receiver at the same point as the receiver is tied into the body. Not sure what that receiver is rated for, but as Archimedes is alleged to have said: with a long enough lever I can move the world. Point being that the receiver also functions as a lever point to where the recover loops tie in. I suspect it magnifies the force. My braniac son could probably tell me the force difference. Regardless, I'd rather just try straight into the point that the recovery loops are mounted to. Ymmv.




And just for attribution, the video links. PowerfulUk: and Lucky8: