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Most likely because of the terrain here in So. Cal and where I plan on going, never had the need or desire for a winch.

I suppose if I was going mud bogging or extreme crawling up in the mountains it would be different.

Thinking a pair of Maxtrax will be the ticket for my application.

 

Tools are good to have just in case... I carry my custom Taco tool kit I have put together over the years, on trips into the back country, but have never needed them for anything major.

If you don't have one already get or assemble a tire plug kit, and make sure you know how to use it.

There are a few tricks that can help when reseating the bead on a tire, like lubricating the wheel / tire bead edge. $0.99 water spray bottle is your friend.

I like the starting fluid method, and you can watch videos of that, but IMO, most use too much.

Same here. No desire / need for winch. I certainly see the value in having one. But since owning my tacoma 7 years now never needed one.

A while back there was a guy on here that self recovered his flipped Tacoma in Death Valley area with his own winch--and solo. That guy--wow.

 

Im moving to the west coast, y'all dont need winches out there? Here in the east, you almost gotta have someone with you just in case.

I see whatcha mean, just dont have that kinda cash and from what ive seen they arent ALL bad.

Tighter than a virgins asshole man.

 

I don't feel I need one. Some do. It really comes down to the terrain and weather conditions you want to wheel in.

To expand a little further, my truck is 4x4 with rear locker, and ATRAC. If I have one wheel with traction, chances are I'm getting out from where ever I am. The only time I have ever been stuck in my time, is high centered in snow.

And I presently don't have aftermarket skids so when I hit rocky terrain, I choose my lines very carefully. Wheeling carefully is a great way to not break stuff, and not get stuck.

 

The fact I don't have a winch really plays a role into not getting myself into shitty situations, thus preserving my truck and eliminating unwanted risk. If I had the ability to get myself through nasty obstacles that I had confidence going into to, nothing good would come from that.

Tow straps and Maxtrax is all that's needed for about 95% of Southern California

 

I've used my Warn a few times.

I had a bad snafu with my old Shittybilt winch, so YES I recommend that everyone spend the extra $ on a good winch.

You don't wanna be that guy that can't use his winch when you're stuck.

Not to mention the countless times I've seen someone use a winch to help someone else.

btw SoCal wheeling is different than NorCal wheeling.

 

^^^ Yeah in NorCal you have trees, water, lakes, rivers, etc. lol

 

X2

 

I wouldn't consider going out, especially alone, without a winch. To me, again I said to me (before anyone gets butthurt), that's irresponsible and just asking for trouble.

Then again to me, a winch is just as much for buddy recovery as self. I carry a FULL tool kit. Not just for me but so I can help others.

I have a winch for the same reason I carry a Glock. Hope I don't need it but when you do, you're really gonna be glad you did.

On that note I need a better winch. I'm running around with a Chinese winch which is like carrying a highpoint

 

What he said

 

Agreed. I have a winch as more of an "just incase" than a "I can wheel where and whatever" tool. The ability to help others in trouble is a bonus for sure but do I think you have to have one before you venture out... no. There are a lot of other tools and techniques to get unstuck or help someone who is before you even need to unspool that winch line so as long as you have those tools and knowledge.

 

Is there any good overlandingish spots near Tahoe? I'm going to pick up a rear bumper in September from Sparks, Nevada and have never been to tahoe so figured I'd make a trip out of it.

 

Relentless FTW! Yeah, head out of Homewood to Georgetown. Fun run

 

Sweet! Their rear for the 5th gen 4Runner is gorgeous. Can't wait to get it. Getting a dual swing out with rotopax and spare tire.

 

Yeah Erics stuff is the best IMO. I was somewhat kidding when I said that trail. An armored, lifted, and locked T4R can definitely make it but If you're going to do the Rubicon make sure you're prepared. Probably want to have more than one vehicle in your party too.

 

Darn. I just want to find a nice spot. The plan is to head up to sparks, Install rear bumper, then head over to Tahoe with my girlfriend.

 

Thank you! I didn't know what that trail was when I read it haha. I'll be sure to avoid it.

 

Bucks lake is a sweet area.

 

Like dented doors is soooo horrible

 

Definitely going to do that then. I'm good without another vehicle? I don't have to worry about getting stuck somewhere?