I hear ya on welding anything not nailed down. That is literally what I do for a living. Don't mean to be a dick, it comes natural.

Also, to prevent thieves from yanking the whole bumper w/ winch, I would suggest tack welding a couple of the bolts. Makes it a ***** to pull the bumper, but how often do you really need to yank it?

 

I really feel like you guys are overthinking the whole thing. If someone wants to try to steal my winch, good luck to you sir. I'll even park it under the security light in front of the garage so they can see what they're doing. It's always easier to hit a target you can see....But I digress. They can even switch it to freespool and attempt to steal my rope. Hopefully there are a few of them so they can rotate in when they get tired of pulling line out.

 

Not for vehicle recovery I hope!

 

I have shackles with quick release pins. I'm thinking to provide locks.

 

I'm a jerk i use the strongest locktite on stuff i don't want stolen they will have to cut it off.The shackles id take off just because hearing them rattle around driving would get to me after a while.As far as someone stealing them let em they are cheap at tractor supply.

 

$28

 

Park with front end up against a wall....

 

a lot of times that's not possible...

 

That may help... at least, until 'they' get the tool from Amazon

 

The strongest loctite they will need a torch and a impact to get those bolts loose.