Huntsville Alabama / Tennessee Valley Chat
JK Enthusiast
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 168
Likes: 0
From: Madison, AL
I plan on making the dive back in 35" tires, but I can't decide which ones to go with. I really like the KM2's that Jeff has, but I think the Mud Grapplers are really badass too. I could go with Hankook's and save a few bucks or Kuhmo, but they are directional. Then there's Firestone and Dunlop down at the bottom of my list. Anyone have any useful input??
JK Newbie
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
From: Huntsville, AL
When I sat down and started jotting down facts, I discovered that 75% of my winching time was self-recovery and the remainder was helping others out (I wheel alone alot...I know, I know, I shouldn't do that). Then I weighed the option of various motors for the winch (series vs. planatery). Next came the weight to pull ratio and the line speed. For the two+ times a month that I use a winch, I felt that an 8K or 9K, series wound with decent line speed and a snatch block would be right for my needs.
So....I felt no need to spend upwards of $1000 on a winch when a $299-499 one would fit my needs. Granted, the upscale ones are twice/three times the winch I have, but I personally didn't need them. If I were a dedicated rock crawler or a dedicated recovery vehicle in a club, then I would absolutely drop the cash for a high-end winch with air compressor, wireless remote, two speed gear, etc.
I think you should go with it, but if you plan to utilize frequently (ie. once/twice a week) you might want to upgrade b/c a high-end unit will last longer and perform better.
p.s. 4-wheel drive parts (the store) owns the rights to Smittybuilt and stands behind their products. Don't be afraid to trust the XRC8, it has served me well so far.
JK Newbie
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
From: Huntsville, AL
I plan on making the dive back in 35" tires, but I can't decide which ones to go with. I really like the KM2's that Jeff has, but I think the Mud Grapplers are really badass too. I could go with Hankook's and save a few bucks or Kuhmo, but they are directional. Then there's Firestone and Dunlop down at the bottom of my list. Anyone have any useful input??
Though, I have to complain about their "decent" traction in the snow/ice. The problem is they aren't siped and slip a little on packed snow. They do awesome in the loose powder though and mud/rocks are NOTHING for them to conquer. Plus, they have great on-road manners and are fairly quiet.
JK Freak
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 759
Likes: 0
From: North AL
The problem is that after the coils go on, it will make my 33's look small and then I won't have a choice. My jeep will demand 35's and I will be compelled to obey.
man how can you stand not getting those on??
JK Freak
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 573
Likes: 0
From: Madison AL
I believe in thoroughly detailing the needs vs. the wants when shopping for a winch. I had a 9K Tabor (Warn) on my TJ...I bring this up b/c it's relevant to why I went with the one currently on the JK.
When I sat down and started jotting down facts, I discovered that 75% of my winching time was self-recovery and the remainder was helping others out (I wheel alone alot...I know, I know, I shouldn't do that). Then I weighed the option of various motors for the winch (series vs. planatery). Next came the weight to pull ratio and the line speed. For the two+ times a month that I use a winch, I felt that an 8K or 9K, series wound with decent line speed and a snatch block would be right for my needs.
So....I felt no need to spend upwards of $1000 on a winch when a $299-499 one would fit my needs. Granted, the upscale ones are twice/three times the winch I have, but I personally didn't need them. If I were a dedicated rock crawler or a dedicated recovery vehicle in a club, then I would absolutely drop the cash for a high-end winch with air compressor, wireless remote, two speed gear, etc.
I think you should go with it, but if you plan to utilize frequently (ie. once/twice a week) you might want to upgrade b/c a high-end unit will last longer and perform better.
p.s. 4-wheel drive parts (the store) owns the rights to Smittybuilt and stands behind their products. Don't be afraid to trust the XRC8, it has served me well so far.
When I sat down and started jotting down facts, I discovered that 75% of my winching time was self-recovery and the remainder was helping others out (I wheel alone alot...I know, I know, I shouldn't do that). Then I weighed the option of various motors for the winch (series vs. planatery). Next came the weight to pull ratio and the line speed. For the two+ times a month that I use a winch, I felt that an 8K or 9K, series wound with decent line speed and a snatch block would be right for my needs.
So....I felt no need to spend upwards of $1000 on a winch when a $299-499 one would fit my needs. Granted, the upscale ones are twice/three times the winch I have, but I personally didn't need them. If I were a dedicated rock crawler or a dedicated recovery vehicle in a club, then I would absolutely drop the cash for a high-end winch with air compressor, wireless remote, two speed gear, etc.
I think you should go with it, but if you plan to utilize frequently (ie. once/twice a week) you might want to upgrade b/c a high-end unit will last longer and perform better.
p.s. 4-wheel drive parts (the store) owns the rights to Smittybuilt and stands behind their products. Don't be afraid to trust the XRC8, it has served me well so far.
thanks
pretty much what i thought..i'm gonna use it once every month or two...i want it to work when i need it but pull speed an stuff aren't worth double the price.
JK Freak
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 573
Likes: 0
From: Madison AL
I'm looking at upgrading to 35's too. But I tend to be a little unconventional and have to try something different. I may go for the Dick Cepek Crusher or maybe the Goodyear MTR-Kelvar; or I may play it safe and go with Firestone Destination MT or the Mickey Thompson MTZ. My ATZ's have done really good and I know what I'm getting with Mickey Thompsons.
JK Freak
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 573
Likes: 0
From: Madison AL
on a side note i'm priming and painting springs in my garage all night tonight...well currently actually, waiting for the first coat to dry now...any words of advise??
JK Freak
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 507
Likes: 0
From: Huntsville, AL
no, I was never very good at painting stuff. But damn it, I'm good at fixing stuff. And tearing up after I fix it
JK Freak
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 759
Likes: 0
From: North AL
JK Freak
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 573
Likes: 0
From: Madison AL
