Hey guys, I was wondering if anyone was running front winches on there escape. I currently run a 2001 XLT that is stock in every aspect. Recently I built a hitch mounted winch that worked great for dragging old hot water heaters up a hill. While the setup is nice, it takes up a lot of space in my trunk when not being used and constantly needs to be hooked and unhooked from the battery as it is temporary. My question here is this, is there anyone using a winch on the front of there escape? Anyone have an idea what is a good (safe poundage) for the front? I have no illusions that the truck I am working with is a small cross over and not a F350 truck but I would not be surprised to see that it would be safe to operate a 4500 lbs winch on the front. If it could go more that is great, but for now I am trying to base my decision on what is realistic. If I could mount it with a push bar in place, or on the bar itself that would be great. I'm fairly handy with a welder and grinder, and my grandfather is amazing with them. So with all that in mind, is there someone out there with some good advice.
thanks, matt

 

Hmmm, that would exceed the approx curb weight by a half ton. Not sure if this is a valid point or not?

 

Welllllll, I am looking for a recommendation. So even if it had to be 2000lbs, I just wanted some sort of input, guess I got it.

 

Sorry but it stands to reason if one put a 5T come along between a 1T and 3T object and start to crank it, without getting too techy, which will be moved? I've seen this happen in the workplace.

I have heard where pulling another vehicle out with a winch where the pulling vehicle is anchor to a tree.

 

Oh, I get it, and your logic is bullet proof and makes sense. It is a matter of physics that I just happened to over look. You answered my question, thank you.