Thoughts on the 8000lb Warn vs the 10000lb smitty?
https://www.amazon.com/WARN-26502-M8000-8000-lb-Winch/dp/B000182DYM
I read somewhere that I should go for 10k. Is 8k enough? I'm thinking it'll be pulling me out of mud, and other cars out of snow.
A winch, because I got my car stuck the other day, so hopefully I can get myself out next time
And maybe I'll rescue one of you too.
http://www.amazon.com/WARN-26502-M8000-8000-lb-Winch/dp/B000182DYM
Seen them closer to $550, just the first link I found.
The real proof is when you take them apart, those cheap winches have poorly machined gears, casting flaws, poor lubrication, cheap solenoids, motors that fry way to easily. Is almost like they want to make it look like a winch for show.
Most of the differences with the 8-10k winches are gear ratios. The "more powerful" winches are in reality just geared lower and are slower. The warn winches now have many imported parts, including the motors, but the gears are still cut in Oregon. Plus the quality control has not changed.
They are really easy to rebuild though. I have a 15 year old M6000 that I just completely rebuilt. The old motors are very beefy So I was able to clean the armature and stator with a wire wheel and replace the insulation. Find one that looks rough and functions for 100 bucks and spend a few days taking it apart.
Bumpers are a personal taste, but as far as the winch goes, I would take that money and buy a Warn winch. They have been market leaders forever, and for good reason. Dont want your winch failing when you need it.
This is a great winch. I have one on the front of my JKU Rubicon. It currently has a $75 mail in rebate as well, so if you order online with no tax, it costs less than the smittybilt
Here is the rebate form.
Easier still right into the middle of the street.