Now that I've gotten my winch operational, I need to put together a basic accessory kit. Don't want to go too with the checkbook but looking for some guidance on things to have. For what it's worth, I don't have a hook but rather a Factor 55 Flatlink on the end of 95' of synthetic line.
I noticed they sell kits but would it be better to put together one myself?
- Winch remote (two actually, but I use to run F/R winches) - Snatch block/pulley (This is important IMO. You can't always line up the way you want to on a tight trail) - 4x D-shackles. Mine are various sizes but 3/4" seems to fit most applications. Make sure what you get fits your equipment - Tree saver. Required with a snatch block - GLOVES. Required. I have smashed my hands many times moving rocks. Gloves are a necessity. - 10ft of Grade 70 transport chain - 2x 3ft of Grade 70 transport chain - 50ft of synthetic winch rope extension - 2x 30ft recovery straps
It seems like a lot, but I used every piece in my kit including both winches at the same time to recover a roll over on Spring Creek and still had to borrow a D-shackle and Come-A-Long.
This is the one I got...I should probably have a little more, but it got me started at least. There are some pretty sweet ones from ARB but they're pretty expensive.
I carry 2 snatch blocks. 3 snatch straps. 1 15ft chain. and a few d rings, a comealong, and a high lift jack. Im hoping to add more when I get my floor box/drawers built. The highlift is the seldom used item but they do work good as a comealong also.
Rob
74 Ranger EFI351w, 4r70w, ARB 5.13 9in, ARB 5.13D44, and a bunch of other goodies. Best of all the family memories.
04 Mustang Cobra, KenneBell 2.2 feeding a lot of boost on E85. Tire shredding machine
New project: 77 Bronco Ranger, body work and more body work.
Very little left of a 72 durango tan explorer sport
Thanks. I think I might try to pick up that Warn kit Toolman has plus a snatch strap. I already have my winch hooked to a remote. May keep my eye out for some more D rings.
WARN came out with a new Premium winch kit that looks really nice but it's more than twice the cost of their standard kit.
Digger has a great point on carrying some 2-3' chain, I also run a synthetic rope and a chain is a great item to have just incase you need to wrap a axle or something in the undercarriage to secure a rig if two winch cables are being use and keeps your line out of harms way.
I also carry 1) 20' and 2) 3' GR 70 chain with grab hooks on both ends. I use them for all kinds of things. I also carry a couple of tree savers/ short straps for change of direction pulls with the snatch block. 2 or 3 20' 2 ply straps, 2 ton Little Mule come-a-long, Hi Lift, 4 ton bottle jack, enough shackles to couple everything together, and a couple of ratchet straps. One other thing is a leg off an old pair of pants with the ends sewn shut and a slot in the center to drop a rock or dirt into for weight on the winch line in case of breakage. I still live by the Boy Scout motto, Be Prepared. Mark.