Hi, long time lurker and my first post (out of desperation for answers).
I am about to purchase a factory XJ winch and bumper setup (unicorn apparently). I really like the stock look of this setup vs aftermarket (I currently have aftermarket and I hate the 'big ole bumper' look). I've done as much research as I can and I still cannot make sense of the way the factory winch is mounted. I want to fully understand how it is mounted before I purchase it because if it mounts the way I think it does, it does not seem like it is a good way of mounting a winch (especially under load). I would be using this winch probably several times a year. It wouldn't be for "show". From what I gather, the feet of the winch are mounted to a rectangle bracket, which is then mounted to the vertical core support. The rectangle bracket is then sandwiched between the unibody by the outer brackets with bolts. I don't think this is good since while you are winching, you are placing tensional stress on four little bolts that bolt through the radiator core support? That seems sketchy. Wouldn't the winch be prone to just ripping straight out of the core support?
If this is the case, why are these highly sought after? I'm just trying to make sure its something I can actually use before I drop my cash on it.
Let me know guys. Thanks
I am about to purchase a factory XJ winch and bumper setup (unicorn apparently). I really like the stock look of this setup vs aftermarket (I currently have aftermarket and I hate the 'big ole bumper' look). I've done as much research as I can and I still cannot make sense of the way the factory winch is mounted. I want to fully understand how it is mounted before I purchase it because if it mounts the way I think it does, it does not seem like it is a good way of mounting a winch (especially under load). I would be using this winch probably several times a year. It wouldn't be for "show". From what I gather, the feet of the winch are mounted to a rectangle bracket, which is then mounted to the vertical core support. The rectangle bracket is then sandwiched between the unibody by the outer brackets with bolts. I don't think this is good since while you are winching, you are placing tensional stress on four little bolts that bolt through the radiator core support? That seems sketchy. Wouldn't the winch be prone to just ripping straight out of the core support?
If this is the case, why are these highly sought after? I'm just trying to make sure its something I can actually use before I drop my cash on it.
Let me know guys. Thanks