how wet can i get my warn m8000 winch.

question 1)the manual says not to submerge it in water, but can it be rained on?
if so for how long.

question2) how damaging is mud and puddle splashes to it?

question3)the manual says to wash it, i can use a non-pressure water source, but can i spray the solenoid box or can that not be wet?

finally, question 4) how exposed are the connections on the winch with the rubber or plastic boots on?

here's a pic of my winch and bumper to show its exposure to the elements.

 

Mine is still strong after two years of going through the mud, making river crossings and washing it. Cannot leave it soaking but splahes won't hurt it.

I have no doubt that I will have to replace some parts at some point.

 

I've had two warren winches and never had a problem with the elements and never covered them. It will be fine.

 

Sorry, I don't have an answer for you but I have my own question. I didn't get a solenoid mounting bracket with my recently delivered M8000. I was expecting the thin silver bracket thats in all the catalog pics that mounts the solenoid centered directly over the spool. Did you have to buy a separate piece?

 

Had my under water a couple of times just for a sec. Never covered it. Washed it regular. No problems. As for the bracket go back to where you got it. It should come with it, or make your own. Very simple.

 

My M8000 is in the PNW where it is 80% humidity for a majority of the year. I've had many water/mud submersions. The winch is a champ, the only thing that is showing wear are my steel fairlead rollers. I'll be switching to an aluminum fairlead and synth line fairly soon and I'm not worried at all about the winch.

 

ya i ordered mine from here: http://www.4wd.com/productdetails.as...13&partID=5028

 

that's awesome i didn't think it was that durable to water and mud. thx for the replies everyone.

 

The bracket doesn't come with it. I'm not positive but I think I got mine from Amazon.

 

The main thing I make sure of is cleaning off all the mud/grime after trail runs. I'll unwind the full length, clean everything, and then rewind with tension once a year. Also check the wiring terminals @ the battery and solenoid.