Rough Country Hidden Winch Install- 2.3 Badlands

[mds5917]

So, while waiting (less than patiently) for RC to come out with their "mod bumper" version, I was thinking of slightly modifying the factory skid plate to make an 'in-between' solution. I'm going to take this to a local shop to see how much this might run and how they feel about doing it, but didn't want to meld the RC with the factory if I could avoid it. I still lose a little clearance in the front, but not as much as it appears the RC version does. Let me know what you think. I have a Warn VR EVO that will be going in on the RC mount.

Mocked it up in cardboard (even have some thinner steel to try as well) but will ultimately have it match the gauge of the Bronco skid (11, I believe).

The bottom won't actually extend as low (or far back? as you see here) as my goal will be to 'tuck it in' probably an inch or so forward of where you see this (also this is taped to the outside, but you get the idea).

Let me know your thoughts, Forum - Thanks!

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[LaterGator]

With some ingenuity one might be able to extend the handle to a safer place too.

I wonder if something like this would work to reach down there with the engine running. My concern would be shutting off the motor while stuck in water.

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Orbit-Water-Shut-Off-Curb-Key/3131069

 

[dcaero]

So, while waiting (less than patiently) for RC to come out with their "mod bumper" version, I was thinking of slightly modifying the factory skid plate to make an 'in-between' solution. I'm going to take this to a local shop to see how much this might run and how they feel about doing it, but didn't want to meld the RC with the factory if I could avoid it. I still lose a little clearance in the front, but not as much as it appears the RC version does. Let me know what you think. I have a Warn VR EVO that will be going in on the RC mount.

Mocked it up in cardboard (even have some thinner steel to try as well) but will ultimately have it match the gauge of the Bronco skid (11, I believe).

The bottom won't actually extend as low (or far back? as you see here) as my goal will be to 'tuck it in' probably an inch or so forward of where you see this (also this is taped to the outside, but you get the idea).

Let me know your thoughts, Forum - Thanks!

I like this idea!

 

[BROCK-O]

I like this idea!

The problem is the actual winch plate will require more room than this looks to give. Dropping the OEM skid with spacers or modifying the skid is necessary to clear the winch plate.

 

[mds5917]

The problem is the actual winch plate will require more room than this looks to give. Dropping the OEM skid with spacers or modifying the skid is necessary to clear the winch plate.

It forces the plate down by approx 3/8”. I put my standard skid plate back on after installing the winch and will need 3/8”spacers too snug it up. Not a big deal visually or operationally, at least not for me. Will have pics by end of next week when I get it back from the welder and reinstall with the fairlead integrated.

 

[dcaero]

It forces the plate down by approx 3/8”. I put my standard skid plate back on after installing the winch and will need 3/8”spacers too snug it up. Not a big deal visually or operationally, at least not for me. Will have pics by end of next week when I get it back from the welder and reinstall with the fairlead integrated.

Looking forward to it

 

[Petey]

I just installed mine today. Prefer the roller setup. I understand it will limit ground clearance, but for now I like the roller and maybe will switch over to the fabricated fairlead someday down the road. The roller was just some holes drilled and some cuts, no big deal or custom fab.

The free spin on the clutch of the winch is actually blocked by the intercooler hose which is kind of a pain and will be looking for options to also modify.

Love my winch tucked away here though!

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