Do's & Don’ts of Adding a Winch to your Off-Road Vehicle
Adding a winch to your vehicle? Mounting winches doesn’t have to be complicated. But it easily can become a headache if you don’t follow these tips:
Do Ensure Your Plate Mounting is Weight Rated to Your Winch
Before installing a winch, you need to make sure you’ve got a winch plate that’s weight rated to your specific winch. Mile Marker Industries not only sells winches but can walk you through what type of mount you need for the winch you are purchasing. Some winch mounting plates, installed on your front bumper, can also be used to attach a plow.
Don’t Go Cheap On The Wiring
If you aren’t sure how to wire up your winch, don’t attempt a DIY job. Mixing up your wires can cause you a lot of heartache before you’ve even got your winch out for its first adventure. If you're unsure what you’re doing, ask for help from the pros.
Do Use the Proper Grade Hardware to Mount Your Winch
Winches can’t be installed with just any old bolts and screws. It’s important to make sure you are using the right hardware for the job. The last thing you want is to be recovering a vehicle and your entire winch, bumper and mount isn’t properly installed.
Don’t Think All Winches Are Created Equal
It’s important to find the right winch for your vehicle. For example, a hydraulic winch might be a better choice in certain applications than an electric winch. In many cases, a portable unit like our RhinoPull1000 might be all you need.
If you're not sure what pull capacity you need or what winch is best for your needs, contact our Mile Marker Industries support team. They are more than happy to help you in your search for high quality winches.
Do Inspect Your Winch Regularly
Winches should be inspected regularly to make sure there aren’t any repairs needed or corrosion affecting its ability to function properly. It’s better to deal with an issue quickly before simple fixes become expensive.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
Mile Marker Industries is used to answering questions from a range of individuals. Everyone from first time winch buyers to experienced tow truck drivers, to the US Military (Mile Marker is the sole manufacturer of the hydraulic winch which is on the HUMVEE and FLYER military vehicles) walk through the front doors with questions. Don’t be afraid to ask us about our winches, how to install them, or what parts and pieces you need to buy in-store. Give us a call at 1-800-886-8647 or shoot us an email at info@milemarker.com. We’re happy to help!
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