Hidden Winch Is Installed

Still one hell of a clean job IMO

 

Looks awesome clean job how much was it?

 

Probably about 1k total with the mount, winch, Flatlink, and fairlead. Mount itself was like 360 shipped.

 

Also, if anyone ever finds this while looking for instructions on their install, the brackets that attach the mount to the sway bar mounts fit much better on the inside of the winch mount. Outside, as shown in the bumper instructions you will find, they did not hit the frame flush and I had to unbolt it all, cut both the front and rear tabs (see bumper instructions) and move it inside. Also don't overdo the 3/16 bolts that fit through the frame under the plastic tabs above the sway bar mounts. The bolts are fine thread and even with the square washers, you can crush the frame in before the bolts feel really snug. And if you want to reuse the OEM front hook, put the mount on with a couple bolts, remount the tow hook, and mark the where it hits so you can grind a little bit to make it fit. If you wait, you will find out that you need to grind after it's all on and tight.

 

Hmmmmm... we just voted. Sorry to say, you’re going to have to take it all apart so we can get a full step by step write up. Majority vote rules in TW.

 

Lol. I thought about it right up until I walked into the garage and it was freezing. I was in hurry mode after. I may still try to put something together.

 

lol boo

It does look super clean! No where near the top of my list BUT basically what I would like to do. Not sure I’d have the balls to go quite so custom. I’d probably go the sos route just out of laziness.

 

I definitely think you made the right choice.Looks clean.

 

I think the install is about the same. I can't see not needing to cut the steel tabs no matter what you install. They are in the way of the frame mounts at the front. You need to trim the body colored panel above the black bumper cover that way instead of the black part itself. That black valance is like $60 if you need to replace (or screw it up). You do get recovery points with the SOS bumper, but gain weight. Tough call.

 

Very true. Either way, I commend your skills!

 

Thanks. I'm happy with the way it turned out.

 

looks very nice!

 

did you do a write up or video the installation for posting?

 

Was there any cutting other than the black plastic piece up front? I only ask because of the pic with the masking tape near the headlights (or was that unrelated to the winch mount?)... or are those the "steel tabs" you mention?

Definitely interested in going this route for my winch since I'd rather not cut as much as other options require

 

Looks great!

 

There are a couple steel "tabs" or loops that have to be cut under the bumper cover. I masked off the paint before pulling parts. It just keeps stuff from getting beat up when you are pulling tabs loose and refitting.

 

I took some notes and pics, so I may do one if I can find some time.

 

Awesome, thanks for clarifying! Certainly moved this option higher on the list of winch mount possibilities for me.

 

Nicely done!!! Will be super stealth with that flip license plate brackets!