Hey guys, just bought a Smittybilt XRC8 winch and was wondering how ya'll like yours (or any experience with it). I know a lot of people diss 'Shittybilt' on some of their Chinese made stuff, but would this be one of the products to fall under that category? I would like some opinions/reviews on this winch before I install it to know if I should return it and buy something else. Thoughts? Thanks!

 

Probably should have looked for reviews before you bought

 

I really did, and most were great! Just thought some extra opinions is always nice since the biggest and baddest 4WDs are here on the forum!

 

The XRC8 is known for having weak internals. The XRC10 has stronger parts. I would return if you didn't open it yet.

 

I had one on a TJ and never had an issue with it. For the price, it's not a bad deal for the rare light use, IMHO. I did go with a Warn 9.5CTI on my JKU. Heavier vehicle, fit the bumper and I had more cash

 

I've used mine for some long pulls on my buddies LJ without issues. It dragged his 04 Unlimited 4 full lengths of the cable. I've yet to need it for myself (knock on wood), but I'm sure it will get me out..if not, then that is what trail partners are for.

300 bucks is cheaper than a tow anytime.

 

I've got the xrc8 comp series and it has worked just fine so far. Only used it a half dozen times if that much even.

 

I looked at the XRC and was told this by the people at 4WP.
For a 4 door JK, they suggest a 10,000 lb winch.
They are "good enough" for the amount of use a winch normally gets.
If there is any problem with them, you take the back to the store for a replacement.
Returning to a store they can just grab another one off the shelf.
Others are more difficult shipping them back to the manufacture, and then waiting.
They have had a few returns on the XRC8's but just replaced them.
They have not had anyone come back twice with a dead winch.

If you wheel with others that have winches I would take my chances with an XRC10.
What's the likely hood of two winches not working at the same time?
Save some money for other mods or gas rather then investing more in the "what if's"

 

I've had mine for several years and have not had any issues what so ever. Its pulled me out of bad spots and a few other people. Unfortunately on forums, your gonna have a lot of dick measuring and people giving opinions based on most of the time absolutely nothing or one who has a million posted threads that automatically makes him/her an expert. Remember a JKU is less than 5000 lbs.

 

Ive had mine since jan 2009 and have replaced the cable once and the roller fair lead once. No complaints from me.