What Winch to Purchase

[Kev223]

Hi all, im new to the 4WD world and have seen many different winches for sale to suit a 2003 Nissan Patrol but I don't know which one to choose any help would be appreciated. I would like to buy one that will last the distance and wont brake down after a bit of work if i need to use it of course.

[lorrieandjas]

Hi mate - winches are pretty much a personal choice and depending on what you want to use them for there is potentially other recovery gear that may be better prioritised first. I personally favour Warn winches (have had a number of XD9000s) and they seem to go well and last for my purposes. In terms of recovery gear you should also definitely look at a snatch strap, rated D or bow shackles, and a long-handled shovel as a minimum and first buy. But this can only really be used to recover your vehicle if you are travelling with someone else. A winch is great for solo driving but remember you need an anchor point to connect to with a winch (tree, ground-anchor, tyre buried in sand, etc). You also need decent recovery points on your vehicle.

If you do get a winch you will also need a tree-trunk protector, rated D or bow shackles, potentially a winch extension strap and maybe even a bridle. Remember that if you are snatching from the rear you will also need a rear recovery point (don't use the standard steel loop on the back) or a tow-bar hitch receiver designed for recoveries such as the Bushmaster gear, or look up some of Threedogs posts on here - he makes some after-market recovery gear to replace the OEM loop on the back of your ride.

I know I have put a bit more than you originally asked, however recovery, when done correctly is quite safe, however done incorrectly can be deadly.

Jas

[Lonicus]

The search function on the forum is pretty good Kev, particularly for popular topics like which winch is best etc. I don't have a winch so unfortunately I'm no help, sorry.

This thread (http://www.nissanpatrol.com.au/forums/showthread.php?7579) might get you started.

[krbrooking]

Gday mate there is heaps of posts on this subject all over so if you do a search I am sure you will find your answer. Keep in mind what you are planning on doing with your rig, as in will you be towing a camper and doing recoveries with it on and so on.

[krbrooking]

Sorry guys started typing and got distracted by the kids, and only noticed after I submitted the post.

[threedogs]

Simple the very best you can afford. Buy once buy right. Aldi
Srrm to have a good one with no bad reports yet
IMO
I use a warn XP 9500 and love it

[Kev223]

Thanks for all the info mate as I said Im new to all this its all good.

Kevin

[Lewy]

Avenger 9.5 on my troll and I love it.. It is IMO the best bang for your buck.. Mine puled me out of a bog hole at the glasshouse mountains the other day and did it with ease with a loaded troll....

You can have a read of this comparo that 4wd action did http://www.avenger4x4.com.au/library/4WD159036-054FEATURE_WinchComparo.pdf

[Winnie]

I've got an Ironman 12,000lb with plasma rope and reckon it's great value at $900

[Drewboyaus]

Hi mate, I don't yet have one on mine (because all my mates have them) but they all run Warn low mount winches, 9000-9500lbs. They are quite pricey though.
If I was spending my money on a winch at the moment, it would probably be on a Mean Mother Boss winch. Well built, nice features, good warranty and a reasonable price at about $1300.
I'm pretty iffy about most of the cheaper winches as its a piece of equipment you don't want failing given the circumstances you are normally using it in. That said, as MR suggested the Aldi one seems to be ok and most if their stuff is pretty well made.
In my opinion though, stay away from the likes of Tigerz11, Powerfull 4x4 etc as I reckon their stuff is too cheap and if you do a bit if Googling, you'll find plenty of folk not happy with their purchase, or the resultant customer service.
Just my 2 cents....


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[TuffTD42]

My personnel choice is a warn. I got a xd9000 second hand for $600 4 yrs ago. Hasn't missed a beat. I did end up breaking a drum support due to my own stupidity. I replaced them with xd9500 drum supports as they have an extra seal to prevent water ingress. I have a tigerz11 on my car trailer, bought brand new 4 yrs ago also $799. It hasn't done a lot of work, but it gives me hassles some times. So for me I'll stick with a warn.

[BigRAWesty]

Just a heads up that if you are looking for a cheap entry I'm doing a group winch buy for the forum. As mentioned in the thread ill be doing 12 month warranties on these, threw myself and ill deal with the supplier.

http://www.nissanpatrol.com.au/forums/showthread.php?p=298913

Kallen Westbrook
Owner of
Westy's Accessories (http://www.nissanpatrol.com.au/forums/showthread.php?15134-Westy-s-Accessories.-A-small-back-yard-builder.)