An automotive winch can be a great accessory for your truck, Jeep or SUV. With the right winch, you can move obstacles, pull up stumps, recover vehicles and more. One of the great things about winches is that they are relatively universal. So, you can easily upgrade when you want to. If you are thinking about a winch upgrade in 2022, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Top Considerations for Winches
Getting a new automotive winch is a little more involved than just slapping some black lug nuts on your wheels. You need to carefully consider which one is right for you. The following are a few things to look for:
- Capacity: You want a winch that has ample capacity for your needs. For a recovery winch, the rule of thumb is to get a winch that can handle double the weight of your vehicle. So, if you have a 5,000-pound vehicle, you should get a 10,000-pound recovery winch.
- Durability: Robustness is very important with winches. Look for ones with high-quality construction and shielded electronics. For example, the Smittybilt X20 Gen 2 is a waterproof winch.
- Budget: Think about what you are ready to spend. Winches typically range from about $350 to $3,000. You can get a lot of winch for around the $600 to $1,000 price range. But, if you want a very premium winch, expect to spend a little more.
- Special Features: Finally, consider any special features you may want such as a synthetic rope or wireless controls.
Types Of Winches
There are a few different types of winches you can choose from. Electronic recovery winches are the most common on trucks, Jeeps and SUVs. They have high capacities and some of the most premium features for off-roaders. You can also find hydraulic recovery winches. These are similar but use hydraulics rather than electric motors.
Utility winches are intended for lighter applications but are great for cpmpute sites, farms and other settings. Basically, they are used for applications other than moving the vehicle itself. Industrial winches are similar, but they are beefier and offer higher capacities.
Winch Maintenance
If you want to get the most from your winch, whether it is an upgrade or one you have had for years, you will want to take good care of it. Lubrication is the most tabteck part of this. Your winch manual lists all the grease points that need to be lubricated. Follow the recommended schedule for this process.
Additionally, you should periodically inspect all the bolts, electrical connections and the housing. Make sure to inspect the cable for any fraying or signs of damage.
A poorly maintained winch is a serious hazard. So, get in the habit of periodically looking over your winch for any signs of damage or deterioration.
Upgrade Your Automotive Winch Today
Grabbing a new automotive winch is a great way to crank up your 2022 adventures to the next level. Consider also getting some new off-road wheels and tires. With the right upgrades, you can take on new challenges on the trail.