There it is, another winch question...

Which winch to choose for mild to mid winching duty on the JK? I am looking to spend around $500 for it.

 

For only $500 you are looking at off-brand products. I have a friend who has one sold by Harbor Freight Tools and it works acceptably for occasional use. Most hardcore guys would say to stay away from those brands for reliability reasons. Good Luck.

 

If you shop around you can get the Warn M8000 for around that price. ~ $580.

 

I got the new T-Max 9000 Outback series from Northridge 4x4. Here's a link to the older model, but you can call and ask about the "Outback Series" and it's not too much more:
http://www.northridge4x4.com/proddet...od=TMAX-EW9000

Great price and free shipping.

 

I think Smittybilt is offering an 8000# winch now for $299
It uses a permanent magnet motor, so it is probably along the same lines as the other "off brands"

 

T-maxx. never had a problem with mine

 

Can't wait to install it,...
[IMG][/IMG]

 

For the money, it's hard to beat T-Max. I've been running one on my TJ for several years now and it's never let me down

 

Ok, so the way I see it, T-Max seems a good way to go for the budget minded. Is there any way to mount it directly to the stock bumper? Do they manufacture a mounting plate like Warn? Also, what's the general feeling about Milemarker? Finally, I've heard some good and bad things said about electric winches. What are the downsides of an hydraulic winch? If they are more expensive, is it worth it to go the extra mile?

 

The Ramsey REP 8.5e is also a good one in that price range.