Re: RE: Winch bumper

From: Bernd D. Ratsch (bernd@texas.net)
Date: Thu May 13 1999 - 09:54:29 EDT


>1. The receivers are only rated to 5000 lbs, so you have to use dual
>receivers if you want to use a larger winch. Then if you want dual
>receivers in the rear, you're probably looking at some custom work (don't
>remember ever seeing a dual receiver hitch).

True...but you can use pulleys to compensate.

>
>2. When you get stuck, then you have to get out, go pick up the 90-100 lb
>winch and mount from the bed, carry it up to the front through whatever
>material you happen to be stuck in, hoping you don't fall. Then you have to
>balance it in one hand while you clean the mud out of the receivers or
>remove the caps. Then you have to try to get it mounted, probably while
>standing in mud or on a slope. Basically the problem is that the worse the
>spot, the more likely you'll need the winch, and the harder it will be to
>get it mounted.

Now if you really get it stuck...let's say in the mud, you STILL have to
get out and attach the cable (or route it around a tree). (Then again,
there's always the tow-straps) Uhhhh....90-100lbs??? They sure don't feel
that heavy.

>
>3. If you try to avoid #2, you can mount it when you're on dry level ground.
>The receiver mounts I've seen are pretty low, so you're driving around with
>a winch hanging out in front below the level of your bumper, killing your
>approach angle and putting the winch in the muck. Like I said, this is just
>the mounts I've seen, I suppose it would be possible to figure out how to
>put a quick mount up higher. It's going to be above the frame, so it'd be
>tricky to do it right without breaking anything.
>

Normally, you would leave it in the front and remove it if you need it for
the back. Since you normally don't need the winch on the street anyway,
you can remove the assembly and save some extra weight on a daily basis.
Most of the receiver mounts elevate the winch close to bumper level. (If
you're bumper is stuck somewhere, you've got a bigger problem an dmight
need a "Hi-jack" to get yourself semi-unstuck before using the winch.)

>I've never actually used one, this is all just based on carefully thinking
>about what would have happened if we would have had a receiver mount winch
>when we got stuck. Have you seen one in use? Am I just exaggerating the
>problems that you run in to getting the winch mounted?
>

I have used both Grill/Hidden Mount and Receiver Mount winches on offroad
runs and haven't seen any drawbacks from either. They both serve a purpose
and are very functional. (Keep in mind that I don't have one on my truck
at this time...but i'm looking at the Warn Receiver mount for weight savings.)



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