Winch rating

Finally shopping for a winch since I relied on my friend and his a few times last year. I’m leaning towards a 12k but haven’t seen anyone running that much capacity on a Tacoma.

Reading up on the difference of the warn zeon 10 and 12, there’s about a 50A lower draw from the 12 pulling an 8k load. The winch itself doesn’t appear to be any bigger on the outside so fitment shouldn’t be a problem.

Truck is about 800lbs over stock weight and to overcome it stuck in the mud or getting it over a rock would need at least 8k.

I’m also considering the fact that the highest pulling capacity is on the first wind and diminishes as line is pulled.

Am I way over doing it by getting a 12k winch? It seems like it wouldn’t have to work as hard and would draw less amperage than a smaller winch. Advice from you guys that have winched a good deal? Thanks as always

 

10k is usually good to go with this size truck. Get a snatch block (or 2) to give yourself more options for angles and pulling power

 

My M8000S has served me well and I'm likely about as heavy as you (shell with ≈100lbs of recovery gear, skid trilogy, bolt on sliders with fill plates, HC rear bumper with swingout, front stingray bumper with winch, and 2 spare tires).

Snatch blocks are your friend and unless your truck is dead you aren't pulling the full weight in most situations.

Line speed is another thing to consider when winch shopping.

 

I run a 12K Engo. I push my rig pretty hard and have used that winch a lot. I've only once had to wait for it to cool down. If you plan on using it a decent amount there's absolutely no reason not to go big.

 

Thanks. I’ll definitely throw those on the list.

 

I’d say you’re definitely heavier than I am! Good to know an 8k has hauled it out.

 

Awesome thank you. Are you usually doing strait pulls or using a snatch block?

 

Whatever the situation requires. Usually straight pulls unless I need to redirect the angle of force then I'll toss on a snatch block. I've never needed a snatch block because the winch couldn't handle the load though.

 

I have a 9500 on my fj40, and I roll pretty heavy in it. Have winched a fair amount, never having an issue with capacity. Like the others, I carry snatch blocks and rigging for redirection. IMO I’d spend any extra on more rigging than more capacity, as getting a clean pull is more important than total force.