Last weekend I saw a very clever/cheap idea for hooking up a tow strap to a trailer hitch safely.. I'm not taking credit for this.
Use a tow strap with the loops on both ends 30' 30,000 lbs.. Put the loop inside the receiver and insert the dowel through the loop and put the cotter pin into the dowel.
A cheap alternative to a D-shackle.

You can also use a big D-shackle through the receiver but they cost money..
I hope these ideas help a little.

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Ken
'01 Salsa Xterra
4x4 5spd 3 pack