Adding a Winch

I would like to add a Winch to my 2012 Jeep JK SPORT 2-DOOR. Will be keeping the stock bumper. Should I do anything to beef up front suspension. I will be upgrading shocks

Tom C.

 

I supose it depends on the winch but you don't need to mess with the suspension for most of them, especially the ones commonly utilized on modern Jeeps. If weight is a concern, get synthetic rope. That knocks about 20 lbs off.

 

Keeping the stock bumper actually saves weight compared to some aftermarket bumpers hovering around 100lbs. But the aftermarket steel ones are tougher than plastic.

 

The other factor here is the aftermarket versions usually mount the winch lower. An aluminum aftermarket bumper would likey be close to stock as far as weight. I assume with the stock bumper you are going to mount the winch atop it?

 

That’s a good point as I’d like the winch to be mounted a bit lower. The aftermarket bumpers may not require a mounting plate.

 

Hi @tomrr, from the photo, your Jeep seems to be sitting fine, maybe even slightly higher than a stock Sport, so if you’re satisfied with the height for access and egress, especially for co pilots, I’d call it good to go and not worry about the springs. New shocks are always an improvement, though, so you can’t go wrong replacing those. A stock bumper is light, and you can easily add a winch plate to it, if you like a stock look. I run a winch on my other vehicle, a 4 Runner, - a Warn Evo VR 10 s on an aluminum Victory 4x4 bumper and it’s a combination that adds 107 lbs to the front end, which is no appreciable weight difference for that particular application. If you want to get an idea how your Jeep will handle the extra weight just get someone about that weight to stand on the front bumper and see if it compresses at all. I’m guessing based on my old 2011 JK, that it won’t budge.

 

If you do want a little lift and can deal with a somewhat stiffer suspension, you can just swap in the springs from a JKUR. Those can be had for next to nothing.

 

Thanks for all the replies.

 

Installing the winch will be an asset when you get yourself stuck somewhere. But first you have to learn to use the winch safely and properly. Add some D-rings, tree saver straps and miscellaneous recovery gear.

 

Good Advice !!!