Guys, I need some advice.

I have a Shrockworks stubby on order and I want to install a Smittybilt XRC10 with synthetic rope.

First, is this a solid choice for my 2dr JK (4,900 pound GVWR) and secondarily, do I need a special fairlead or other accessories to remove the cable and run synthetic line from Day 1 (first time winch buyer, so I appreciate the input).

http://www.winchdepot.com/Winches-Winch-Accessories/XRC10-Winch.aspx?t_c=18&t_s=300&t_pt=100702&t_pl=6426&t_ pn=S%2fB97210

http://www.amsteelblue.com/

 

I've been using amsteel blue synthetic winch cable on my warn m8000 on my JK for 2 years,will not go back to steel cable,have winched my JK and other vehicles with and with out snatch block with no problems,yes you need a billet fairlead,and you have to be carefull not to have heavy abrasion on synthetic line,apart from that far superior,way safer and easier to handle than steel line

 

synthetic line is a no brainer.

as to the winch, it seems like the consensus is that warn/superwinch/ramsey/mile marker are the most trusted. For some reason, smittybilt is not included in that list. I wish it was for I'd pick up the XRC10HD whenever it is released. But until the trusted list changes, I'll have to save for a year for the Warn.

also, as to the load rating, I suspect it is the same consideration that you should give for other electronics purchases. At about 5000 lbs for a loaded down wrangler, you really should go for a winch that is rated for double that, i.e. 10k. personally, I will be going for 10-12k instead of 9.5k to further minimize capacity loads and extend useful life.

Remember that when your jeep is stuck you have to factor in the GVWR plus the increased load from whatever you are stuck on. I imagine being stuck in mud will increase the load on your winch by another 1000+ lbs depending on how stuck you are.

 

Good intel, guys. Thank you.

rickl, I believe the Shrockworks bumper comes with a billet fairlead, so I should be good to go in that respect. A couple more questions.

Q: What do you have to do to actually fit the rope to the winch?

Q: I'll need a billet thimble, right? Anything else you can think of?

 

you can run a roller fairlead as long as the rollers are nice and smooth if its the new one that came with the winch then its no problem daystar makes nylon rollers as long as the rollers have no nicks or cuts your good

 

Most synthetics come with a heat sheild on one end so make sure that it is all the way across the drum. The one thing that I didn't do is put a nylon sleeve (can buy them at boating supply stores) down the first 10 feet. Most come with a chafe guard, but if you make it longer it will cover the top most wrap protecting it from the weather. Synthetic is prone to sun damage so make sure you do the sleeve thing or at least get a winch cover.
As far as the thimble, any will work. I have the plane steel one with the hook attached. Hope this helps.