I'll be installing a bumper winch combo next weekend should I mount the winch in the bumper before installing it?

 

Probably very awkward to do so since the bumper probably won't be sitting nice and flat like it would on the jeep, and also would make that much more heavier when installing the bumper. The only thing you might gain is easier access to the bolts on the underside of the bumper that will hold the winch in place.

 

According to our Lead Tech here, it depends on what bumper/winch combo you're using. He said, that for ease and efficiency of install, he always installs the winch onto the bumper first, then installs the whole assembly. If the bumper you're using allows access to the winch bolts from underneath, it is possible to install it after the fact. He installs the winch first so that there's no clearance issues. Imagine getting your bumper on and then finding out the winch wont fit.

Hope this helps!

-Kyle