I am looking at getting a winch for my DD 98 xj. I could either get a front winch bumper or bumper with a receiver and keep the winch on a cradle which would allow me to run it on the back as well. Currently leaning toward the cradle just so i would be able to keep the winch safe and sound in my garage during daily driving. Wondering what everyone's thoughts and experiences where on this?

 

Either works, just depends on whether you to hook/unhook the wiring to the battery and carry a 80-95lb winch every time you install/remove it.

 

A winch bumper, IMO it has more strength mounted in the bumper and 9 chances out of 10 that will be where you will need it. I'm being generous in that so far I have never needed on for the rear "yet".

 

One big thing to take into consideration is the angles you might want to pull at. With a winch cradle, you really only want to pull strait in; where as with a winch mounted directly to the bumper you can do some considerable angles when pulling.

 

Cradle, build the reciever into the bumper, gusset it well, it'll be just as strong as mounted to a bumper.

As for wiring, ever see connectors for an electric hilo? Perfect for what you want.

 

I went the cradle route, I wanted to have the option of front and rear and also didn't want to carry a winch on the front bumper when not needed. To be honest though I doubt I will ever use the rear (have not needed it yet) I am actually drawing up a rear swing arm for the spare wheel and will likely use the receiver to mount fuel cans for longer trips.

 

Get a winch bumper it will protect the front of the jeep and the winch is ready to go,With the cradle you have to get it out put it on and hook up the power before you wheel or after you get stuck to need it.