Which winch (Warn M16.5k or M12000)?

[rob_gendreau]

I keep wondering about this.... Sometimes a winch adds just that extra bit of traction to help you out.

Of course a better idea is to be with a buddy since a recovery strap is quick, safe and can work wonders. But I've noticed most SMBers solo it.

Harborfreight has 12K winches, reputedly made by the same people who make Mile Markers, or designed by them or something, and they only cost $320 with the ubiquitous 20% off coupon. They get surprisingly good reviews, and after all we're not using 'em like rockcrawlers use them.

But I'm still not sure. I'd probably have to spend an awful lot of time figuring how to mount it, and I'm not sure I want to hassle with it. And I don't want to add weight with a new bumper. Some rigs I've seen don't look like they could stand up to much 12K pulling, especially with any angle, and so maybe have a winch that'll fail before your front end is borked is a good thing. I've got a front receiver, welded and bolted, that would handle more pull than a bumper bolted on would, and even with that I'd worry a bit.

[Carl]

What style bumper do you have?
In my mind, if you have an aftermarket bumper, it is an easy fit for the Talon 12.5 which is a better fit than the Warn due to slightly smaller size and lighter weight. That said, everything is a balance of need and affordability. One thing I would not do is sacrifice quality just to get a winch. Better you run out and buy a set of Maxtrax. To me it comes down to your intended use and what you can afford.

[BajaSportsmobile]

There are some professional Rock Racing teams using the Harbor Freight winches and there was recently and article in one of the 4X4 mags about their experiences with one - all good. For $300 to $350 for the 12,000 lb winch, you really can't go wrong - these are not rocket parts.