Dual function tow hook

Abstract

A dual function tow hook includes a body forming a tow hook and an integral step formed in the body. The integral step is recessed in an upper surface of the body and includes a first end wall and a second end wall. Further the integral step includes a grooved tread face between the first and second end walls.

What is claimed: 
     
         1 . A dual function tow hook, comprising:
 a body forming a tow hook; and   an integral step recessed into an upper surface of said body.   
     
     
         2 . The dual function tow hook of  claim 1  wherein said integral step lies in a different plane than said upper surface of said body. 
     
     
         3 . The dual function tow hook of  claim 1  wherein said integral step lies in a plane confined within said upper surface and a lower surface of said body. 
     
     
         4 . The dual function tow hook of  claim 1 , wherein said integral step includes a first end wall and a second end wall. 
     
     
         5 . The dual function tow hook of  claim 4 , wherein said integral step includes a grooved tread face between said first end wall and said second end wall. 
     
     
         6 . The dual function tow hook of  claim 5 , wherein said body includes an arcuate inner surface between said first and second end walls of said integral step. 
     
     
         7 . The dual function tow hook of  claim 1 , wherein said integral step includes a grooved tread face. 
     
     
         8 . A method to aid in servicing of a vehicle, comprising:
 equipping said vehicle with a tow hook including an integral step that functions to provide a secure foothold above ground from which an individual may inspect and service engine compartment components.   
     
     
         9 . The method of  claim 8 , including providing said integral step with end walls to better secure a foot of an individual thereon. 
     
     
         10 . The method of  claim 9 , including providing a grooved tread face on said integral step between said end walls. 
     
     
         11 . A vehicle incorporating the dual function tow hook of  claim 1 . 
     
     
         12 . A vehicle incorporating the dual function tow hook of  claim 2 . 
     
     
         13 . A vehicle incorporating the dual function tow hook of  claim 3 . 
     
     
         14 . A vehicle incorporating the dual function tow hook of  claim 4 . 
     
     
         15 . A vehicle incorporating the dual function tow hook of  claim 5 . 
     
     
         16 . A vehicle incorporating the dual function tow hook of  claim 6 . 
     
     
         17 . A vehicle incorporating the dual function tow hook of  claim 7 .