When it comes to operating a rugged machine such as a Jeep, even the best outdoors motorists out there tend to get in a bit of a pickle every now and again. Whether it’s trying to beat a particularly steep hillock or power-jumping over a seemingly insignificantly small ditch, getting stuck in a mass of mud, debris, and God knows what else is certainly not a fun experience!
Once you’re there, then, there’s scarcely a thing you can do on your own. (Other than calling the AA service or asking a local farmer to help you with their tractor) However, as human ingenuity knows very few limits, someone who’s surely been in a ditch themselves, has come up with an award-worthy solution- an electrical winch!
Top Jeep Winch Comparison Table 2017
This little bundle of cables, wires, and a small but plucky motor will get you out of your automotive predicament in a jiffy. As a means of paying homage to this illustrious contraption, here’s a list of 3 best winches currently on sale. Each of them can be a great solution in its own right, so choose wisely!
Before we start, however, let’s see what these winches are all about…
Jeep Winch Buying Guide
Pulling Power– A winch is only as powerful as the weight it’s capable of pulling. For example, a typical winch may be able to deliver some 2,000 pounds of pulling force, which is enough for a smaller vehicle. Some of the higher-end models can handle loads of up to 10,000 pounds! Make sure to check the weight of your car before you make a purchase.
Remote Control Device– Since winching can get quite messy and be potentially dangerous if done in an improper way, many manufacturers equip their winches with a remote control. Most of these devices are corded, but you can also find wireless models out there. (note that the winches with a wireless remote are typically more expensive and operate with heavier loads)
‘Watertightness‘- Making sure that your winch and its remote control device are watertight is quite an important aspect to consider. If water can intrude into your device, you may be up for an unpleasant surprise when you’re actually out there trying to pull your car out of a trench! To avoid this inconvenience, read the product descriptions carefully, and look for disclaimers about the waterproof capabilities of the winch at hand! (or lack thereof, for that matter)
7 Best Jeep Winch Reviews
1. Superwinch – LT2000 12V Utility Winch
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Coming from a renowned company called Superwinch, this 12V Utility Winch is a simple device that you can easily operate using only two buttons! (the first one to pull and the second one to release)
The pulling cord itself measures in some 49 feet, which is more than enough to get it attached to a big tree or a nearby concrete post. In order to keep you out of harm’s way during your ‘winching performance, the folks at Superwinch also equipped their LT2000 model with a corded rubber remote switch. This way, you’ll be at a safe distance if something, God forbid, goes wrong.
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Pros:
- Comes with a powerful o.8 kW motor
- Features a differential planetary gearbox
- Rubber-coated remote switch for safe handling
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Cons:
- Can’t hold a single position, you always have to be either pulling or releasing
- The remote control switch is not water-resistant
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[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/Superwinch-LT2000-Utility-Winch-000lb/dp/B0015U6VLQ?tag=globalgarage03-20″ target=”blank” background=”#FF4900″ size=”8″ center=”yes” icon=”icon: share-square-o” rel=”nofollow”]See On Amazon[/su_button]
2. Superwinch – 1145220 Terra 45 ATV & Utility Winch
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Another model from the Superwinch company comes in the shape of the Terra 45 ATV & Utility winch. This very contraption is much more powerful, and it’s best used for heavy loads and heavy vehicles alike. (It’s also significantly more expensive than its ‘little brother’)
For comparison’s sake, the model LT2000 you’ve seen above is capable of pulling loads up to 2,000 pounds, while the Terra 45 can pull out a vehicle of up to 4,500 lbs! It utilizes a specialized all-steel planetary gear that’s twice as wide as that used by the majority of other winch models. In addition, following through with their ‘safety first’ policy, the designers at Superwinch equipped this model with a remote-controlled switch as well.
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Pros:
- This model is circuit breaker protected
- Capable of pulling up to 4,500 pounds
- Features a 1.6 HP motor with a permanent magnet[/su_list]
[su_list icon=”icon: times-circle-o” icon_color=”#e50d18″]Cons:
- More expensive in comparison to some other winches (but more powerful as well)
- Doesn’t come with an instruction sheet[/su_list]
[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/Superwinch-1145220-Utility-4500lbs-2046kg/dp/B0034ZYE5U?tag=globalgarage03-20″ target=”blank” background=”#FF4900″ size=”8″ center=”yes” icon=”icon: share-square-o” rel=”nofollow”]See On Amazon[/su_button]
3. Smittybilt – X20 Waterproof Synthetic Rope Winch
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Representing by far the most powerful entry in this list o’ 3, the X20 Rope Winch from Smittybilt is a proper powerhouse in the world of Jeep winches!
With its mighty 6.6 HP motor, this bulky contraption is capable of pulling out a bus full of overweight passengers out of a canal! (well, perhaps not, but it’s still quite impressive) It comes with a wireless remote control, so you can stand at a great distance and still operate it rather easily. For additional protection, this thing is completely waterproof, so you don’t need to worry about keeping it away from rain and other moist elements, so to speak.
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- Boasts a powerful 6.6 HP motor
- It’s completely waterproof and comes with a wireless remote control
- The manufacturers provide a limited lifetime warranty on mechanics and a 5-year warranty on electrical parts[/su_list]
[su_list icon=”icon: times-circle-o” icon_color=”#e50d18″]Cons:
- The wireless controller sometimes acts up
- Some bolts can become loose after a while[/su_list]
[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/Smittybilt-98510-Waterproof-Synthetic-Winch/dp/B00K150VAI?tag=globalgarage03-20″ target=”blank” background=”#FF4900″ size=”8″ center=”yes” icon=”icon: share-square-o” rel=”nofollow”]See On Amazon[/su_button]
4. Smittybilt 97495 XRC Winch – 9500 lb. Load Capacity
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Stuck on a trench with your heavy jeep and couldn’t bring one of its wheels out even after struggling for hours? Powered by 6.6 HP Amphibious motor, Smittybilt 97495 XRC Winch can help you deal with such helpless moments. The radical 3 stage planetary gear system, along with 9500-lb. pulling strength and the gigantic tie rod struts, make this jeep winch nearly unbeatable in terms of force.
The corded remote control helps you rescue the jeep even without treading on those nasty zone, thanks to its powerful magnetic drive. Amazingly, while it remains plunged under water, you’ll notice no deficiency in its performance for up to 30 minutes. Controlling the device is made easier with several mounting options. In addition, essential wiring supplements are included with the package so that you come across a hassle-free installation.
Smittybilt, Inc. provides a great relief in mind as their stainless-steel products are backed by a limited lifetime warranty and the powder coated stuffs incorporates a 100,000-mile or 5-year warranty (whichever comes first). However, these offers are subject to change following the company agreement. For example – After using the winch for 3 years, you’ll be able to enjoy the warranty’s partial advantage, that is, 50% of the original price for replacing the device. So, during your next off-road trip, make sure your vehicle’s wheels never stops by installing the IP67 rated waterproof XRC Winch in it.
[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/Smittybilt-97495-XRC-Winch-Capacity/dp/B00JXS3BXI?tag=globalgarage03-20″ target=”blank” background=”#FF4900″ size=”8″ center=”yes” icon=”icon: share-square-o” rel=”nofollow”]See On Amazon[/su_button]
5. X-BULL 12V Synthetic Rope Winch- 13000 lb. Load Capacity
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If you’re fond of grubby roads and rocky tracks, then as the honored owner of a 4X4, you owe yourself the support of X-BULL 12V Synthetic Rope Winch. Like the Smittybilt 97495 XRC, it contains 3 stage planetary gear system and some others traits. But, since it is little bit expensive than the previous model, as a rule of thumb, you’ll definitely be treated with additional features. First thing first, let’s talk about the strength – this X-BULL winch has got terrific power: 4.6KW. The device introduces durable sealed contactor, ensuring no form of impairment from water or ultimate immunity against corrosion.
While operating this CE (Conformite Europeenne) approved apparatus, you’ve more than one option to choose from. 2 wireless and 1 hand remote controllers guarantee that your wheels will be ready to proceed without your striding into the water. Auto load holding braker delivers maximum safety, turning out this model as one of the most appealing winches to the users. Another thrilling feature of this winch is 26-meter blue dyneema synthetic rope which is 10 times sturdier than the steel rope. Due to its 1/10 of the weight of the later one, it brilliantly decreases about 20 lbs. of the overall weight of the winch. Besides, this UV protected high tensile synthetic cable is resilient enough to withstand any sort of twist or scrape and remains unaffected in the face of weather change and chemical reaction. Even in terms of breakage, it’s less damaging than steel.
X-BULL Rope Winch requires professional installation and we recommend following the instructions properly while mounting so to avoid short circuits and heat or smoke causing from incorrect wiring. Not to mention, this winch is backed by commercial 1-year warranty.
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6. Superwinch 1130220 LT3000ATV 12 VDC winch
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Hurdles become exciting and challenging instead of a tiresome frustration, when you’ve Superwinch 1130220 LT3000ATV 12 VDC winch installed in your jeep. Though Superwinch’s brand name itself is worthy to be trusted for quality product, let’s throw light on its features too, so that you never feel the slightest amount of doubt regarding its performance. This affordable winch is designed with multifaceted usability and tougher situations in mind. Categorized for middle ranged functionality, it has everything needed and nothing superfluous. Sincere ATV and other sports car possessors will appreciate its well-built 3-stage full metal planetary gear train, strong 4-way roller fairlead and free-rolling ergonomic clutch.
The 3,000-LB pulling force is comparatively less than the other models available out there but still it’s more than sufficient for tugging your heavy transportations out of most swampy ditches. In order to protect you from dipping yourself in that dirty soil, you can use the wired handheld remote for operating its 1.2 HP permanent magnet low-amp motor. The handle bar mounted rocker switch is provided with the kit as well. LT3000 ATV winch continues to impress with its hard-wearing 50-feet wire rope and mounting plate.
As for the safety with this solid, noise-free and multi-functional winch, the manufacturers have left no single feature unattended. The automated, energetic brake and 100% mechanized load holding are the most prominent among them. Because they curtail the chance of accidental rope sliding, in case brownout or surge occurs. Moreover, the magnetic engine is secured with a circuit breaker carrying out the reputation of the brand name for reliability.
However, you’ll need to purchase the mounting plate equipment individually. In that case, we refer to considering the Superwinch ATV Application Guide for securing the appropriate gear for your 4-wheeler(s). Otherwise, it’s a perfect winch for fulfilling casual ATV snowplow purposes.
[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/Superwinch-1130220-LT3000ATV-fairlead-handlebar/dp/B0034ZUZM6?tag=globalgarage03-20″ target=”blank” background=”#FF4900″ size=”8″ center=”yes” icon=”icon: share-square-o” rel=”nofollow”]See On Amazon[/su_button]
7. Smittybilt (98510) X2O Waterproof Synthetic Rope Winch – 10000 lb. Load Capacity
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Keep your mudder moving ignoring the pits that you happen to meet throughout your outing, by mounting the Smittybilt (97510) Waterproof Winch on your SUVs or Jeeps. Since the very beginning of their journey, nearly 5 decades ago, Smittybilt has been synonymous with quality. Their 97510 is powered with 6.6 HP Amphibious motor which is the maximum torque in the winch-industry. The integrated synthetic line is capable of dragging your ATV weighing up to 10000 lbs and the speed with which it trails the jeep is really appreciable. It’s neither agonizingly slow nor so speedy you can’t handle.
Thoughtfully engineered, this winch wins our heart regarding the appearance also. With the matte black textured finish, it looks different and aesthetically enriched. Though the exterior of a winch is a less regraded feature than functionality, there’s no reason you take your steps back. Because its matte black textured finish does more than just enhancing its visual significance, it protects the device from the harmful Ultraviolet rays.
While working with gauntlet in hand, unlike the other winches, you won’t find it uncomfortable to work with, cheers to its large clutch lever. And as expected, Smittybilt arranges strong and practical safety methods. Contrary to typical winches that becomes heated after operating for a certain period, the inductive braking system lessens the amount of gradual heat accumulation, resulting an extended life of the kit. Not to mention, this winch carries 5-year electrical, and lifetime mechanical warranty.
[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/Smittybilt-97510-X2O-Waterproof-Winch/dp/B00JXS39VC?tag=globalgarage03-20″ target=”blank” background=”#FF4900″ size=”8″ center=”yes” icon=”icon: share-square-o” rel=”nofollow”]See On Amazon[/su_button]
Now, roll up your sleeves, as this may get messy…
If you’ve made your decision (or you’re about to do it), pay attention to the following things in order to have a merry and hassle-free installation.
How to Install Jeep Winch?
Deciding on the Model– Typically, the consensus among the winch connoisseurs is that you should get a winch capable of pulling roughly 1.5 times the weight of your vehicle. So, if your car weighs 2,000 pounds, the winch should have at least 3,000 pounds of pulling force. If you get this first step right, you’ll save yourself a load of trouble (and money) in the long run!
Follow the instructions (if you get them)- More often than not, the winch manufacturers issue convenient instruction sheets to go with their models. Simply following them should get at least 80% of the job done, so take your time, and read these manuals carefully.
Mind the Bumper!– Depending on the design of the winch, or rather, your bumper, the installation may go down in two different ways: 1) you attach the winch directly onto the bumper, or 2) you detach the bumper, fit the winch, and then attach the whole thing back onto the car. The second version is more difficult, as the resulting mass of the combined winch and the bumper may prove to be too heavy for a single person to handle. Therefore, if you’ve bought one of the models that are installed in this way, make sure to recruit someone to help you out to get it up and running!
All things considered…
If you’re driving a tough vehicle such as a Jeep around on a rugged and unforgiving terrain, some sort of winch is definitely a must. Even if you’re a great motorist yourself, and don’t typically get in trouble, you still may use a winch to help someone else out, and overall, it’s better to have a winch than not, for safety’s sake. Hopefully, this review helped you find a model that answers to your needs in a perfect way. May you have a hassle-free purchase and- cheers!