I got this over the weekend; the xhd rugged ridge bumper and quadatech winch, q9000s. The instructions seem to indicate that I should install the winch before installing the bumper onto the jeep. Is that true? I was hoping to install the bumper first and then drop in the winch. I was going to install it myself, but if I have to do the winch first, then I will need some help to lift the bumper.

 

The way the bumper installs it will be pretty much "impossible" to mount after the fact. Not to say some haven't done it and might chime in. I'd follow the instruction order. I dread the day I have to pull my bumper off to install a winch. Good luck whatever path you choose.

 

I have this bumper. Pretty much impossible to install the winch with the bumper on the vehicle.

 

I installed my winch after the bumper was on, it can be done but is a PITA.

 

I have the same package and installed the winch afterwards. Worked out fine although there was about an eighth inch clearance between the grill and the wire mounting studs. I cut an eighth off the studs just to give myself a little more room. For me it would have been harder to mount the winch first.

 

Just took some pics. Looks like more clearance than I remember so maybe my memory is just bad. I do remember being real careful to keep from scratching the grill. Might have been the third positive wire that you can't see.

 

I see, thanks everyone. I will see if I can get some help with this. I see what you mean with the wires.

 

Its a pretty straight forward install, and I also recommend installing winch first.