In order to not hijack other threads I started this one since it could be the question of other folks shopping for a winch. I saw several threads discussing the brands' quality, but not capacity.

I was initially planning to buy the Recon 10500 winch. However, as I started to shop around I found other models with lower capacities (for example 8,000lbs) that might also work.

So, what are the factors I should consider when choosing the winch capacity?

I do not have experience with winching and 8000lbs is more than the Jeep's weight (mine is a Sahara JKU - 5000lbs?). It would seem that 8,000 would do the trick and I do not want to carry around a bigger (heavier, bulkier, $$&, etc) than I need.

Thanks much!

 

I have the recon, it only weighs 66lbs due to the synth line, so bigger, doesn't always mean heavier, steel line weighs A LOT!!!. It's also the only ip67 waterproof winch last I knew. It isn't significantly larger than the others, same mounting footprint and I've seen it do some amazing things, search youtube for jeep recon box truck, you'll see.
Also save some bucks if you go eBay to buy. They are also advertising a limited lifetime warranty, not sure what that includes?
I really believe this is the best winch for Price/quality on the market right now. Good luck though. see my sig block for photos.
Oh and just because you weigh 5000 lbs, doesn't mean you don't require more effort then that to get unstuck if the friction of the muck you are in is acting against you. Think about a fishing line. if you had a 1 lb weight on the end of 6lb test line, you can pull it as long as it doesn't hang on something, if it starts dragging the bottom (through mud/sand whatever) the line load exceeds the 1 lb weight and breaks when it reaches 6. In this case the reel is the winch. what happens if you have a 50 lb fish on a light reel designed for 20 lbs? The reel (your winch) breaks.

 

Check out the rugged ridge 10.5, you'll overwork an 8k winch, winch's are rated on the first layer on the drum ,So your 8k winch is not going to pull 8k with two or three layers of cable or rope on it . With 3 layers of line you lose 30% your 8k winch turns into a 5k winch, which you will burn up in short order if not careful. For the difference in price I'd go with the 10.5

 

Ill second a 10500 winch. If I could do it again, I would go with Mile Marker ad their new solid state technology. No more solenoids!

 

I haven't done the math, but I always thought the guide was 2 1/2 time weight of your vehicle. This compensates for the suction of mud with the weight of your vehicle.

Ex: 4000lbs = 10K lbs winch

 

I've been told a snatchblock improves the pulling capacity of a winch. My sources aren't always thorough though, so I'm not sure of how much it will improve.

 

thanks for starting this OP. I have been thinking Recon for some time but beyond just the LBS are there other numbers we should look at? Beyond 10.5K I see a lot of other specs... What do they all mean are any important?

 

I too have been in market for winch. I have a 2 door so it's a little lighter, but don't forget to add in your after market accessories and your gear. The winch should be 1.5 times your loaded weight. More is better. I rock crawl so don't worry about the suction cup affect, but do worry about the up pulling mass and line speed. I've been leaning more and more towards warn. The name has been around forever and their reputation. Check out the warn vr series. That is the way I have leaned towards and will add a synthetic line later.

 

go on rough country .com, they have a 12,000 lb winch with syn line for like 500.00, thats what im gettin after i get my stinger lol 12,000 should be enough to pull me out, and if a buddy comes i can even pull my sister out

 

X2 on the RECON 10.5 Premium Winch Kit!! Can't be it for the price.