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So what are thoughts to consider when purchasing a winch. I have been told 8k - 12 k but have never read what people like best when it comes to the synthetic rope or wire. I know everyone wants a Warn but what else is good out there for less money out of my already empty pockets?

What to you have and what do you like and dislike about it.

Thanks Jeeples!!

I've read around 1.5-2x your rig weight is recommended but some will go for the max they can get just because the more stuck you are, winching uphill, etc., all requires more pulling power than level ground just stuck in a couple inches of mud or something and also because they might be pulling out rigs that weigh a lot more. However, you can always increase your pulling power with things like snatch blocks. Winching is slower that way but you get more power.

As far as synthetic vs. wire, I went with synthetic because it's safer if it breaks, and if you take care to protect it while winching so it doesn't get damaged then there's nothing to worry about. The old stories about the sun rotting them out aren't true any longer with the modern UV protections built in. The worst that might happen if you leave the winch uncovered is that the sun will fade any coloring in the line.

I went with the Quadratec 9500is model. Haven't used it except once just to pre-tension the line. They seem to get decent reviews around the various forums and are like 1/2 the cost of a Warn or less. There are some cheaper Warn winches out there now but those are made overseas just like all the other cheap winches. You're just paying for the name unless you get one of the big $$$ ones. The only thing I disliked about mine so far was the included power cable length. I wish they'd had about another foot or 18 inches just to give me a few more routing options. I don't think that's as big of an issue on the TJ's since they're not as big and the engine bay isn't as packed as a JK.

I have Warn's M8000. Been going strong for 10 years with no hiccups. Quadratec's labeled winches appear to be decent for less coin. A winch is something you don't want to skimp on.

There's a lot of info in this but it gives a good idea of how much force is involved when winching. http://www.pirate4x4.com/tech/billavista/Recovery/

I ended up with an XRC 12k synthetic. Unless you get creative with your winch on a regular basis (*cough* Casey *cough*) I'd go with synthetic.

As somebody who does theatrical rigging, the offroad industry markets their products with WAY less safety factor than I'm comfortable with.

I thought I responded to this but I'll try again. THAT IS CRAZY!

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Thanks for all the feedback everyone. It's been added to my list of wants.

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Ha ha! Wow. There may be other uses but for now I would say I'll stick with not doing what you do. Great pics

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