I need some opions and info if you guys wouldnt mind..

My girlfriend bought me an XRC 8 winch and smittybilt 2804 winch plate for christmas.. Im trying to find out some information before i attempt the install.. she didnt realize the weight of the winch+plate until she picked it up and said we can either put the winch on or do other jeep mods

My Jeep: 08 JK, stock gears (auto), stock front bumper. 33 Toyo MT's, 2" lift (and is my daily driver)

first of all would you recommed the winch install or would you say go with other mods like a snorkel or rock rails instead?
do you notice the weight of the winch and plate on your front end much? does it effect your power/ speed/ gas millage..

thanks for your time and information everyone
jesse

 

I would do the bumper. It was one of my first mods and it is one that really makes your ride look nice. I would tell you that you prob will need to get a 3/4 spring spacer for the front to take the rake out from the extra weight of the bumper, but it will look cool. I did not notice a drop in power or gas mileage until I did the lift and 35 inch tires.

 

If I read right I think he got a winch and winch plate, not a bumper. If so, it won't add quite as much weight as an aftermarket bumper and winch would.

If it were me, I'd slap that sucker on. I have a similar Jeep..DD, plan to add only slightly larger tires, and probably won't add a lift. I did pick up a set of front coils from a 4dr rubicon a while back that are three numbers higher than what I currently have. When I do get a bumper/winch I'm going to put the coils on and see if that keeps the nose up, if not I'll go from there.