Front Receiver Project

Since the cables run direct, unfused power all over the truck, it's a good idea to have them on a solenoid. Big fat unfused unswitched cables, running right past the gas tank - not a great idea in a driver-side T-Bone.

So I've got a solenoid mounted right next to the battery, with a little power lead switch right there. So the plugs are only live when I need them. I could have run the switch into the cab, but I actually thought under the hood would be more convenient.

The downside to this switch/solenoid arrangement is if your battery is REALLY DEAD - you can't use your own jumper cables via plug to start your own truck. But it doesn't take much life left to close that solenoid.

 

Layne - I am going to make something like that for the side supports. I like your setup as well. Did you make your winch cradle, i like how it has i tow point from it.

Moose - thanks for the diagram it makes it easy when you can see it. I think 2 gauge wire will do the trick.

 

Yes I did. I used a drop hitch than added some 3" square tube to it.

I used all 2ga wire for my stuff. & a battery disconnect under the hood.

 

Thanks for the advise. when i go home next i will add supports and post up the pics.

 

So how's it look?

 

I will be going home this weekend and hope to get the gussets on there.

I have not had a chance to see how I am going to make the side braces and also need to get some material for that as well as stuff to make the winch cradle.

I will be home for summer in 2 weeks so the plan is to get it moving faster then. Still saving up for the winch and wire as well

 

Well i got my friend to add the gussets over the weekend but didn't get any pics.

I will be home in 2 weeks for the summer and will go get more metal and work on the side supports and get it mounted then its time to test it out!!!

 

Well it has been some time since I started this project, but finally got my winch in. Still have some things i want to do to it before it will be finished.

 

Couldn't have done it without ya

 

Did you check out the strength rating of everything? What grade are the bolts?

Nice and clean. I like!

 

Its all the same bolts and crap all the other offroad bumpers use. They're attached to the frame.

 

What ^^^ Said. I used the same bolts and mount that they would for an offroad bumper with a winch. It is plenty stout

 

Finally tested it

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eGPmvZejBPk