Land Rover Off Road Modifications: Winch

This week we are looking at electric winches as the next part of our off road modification series.

A winch is very useful if you plan to drive off road alone. Modern winches are reliable and easy to operate as long as you follow the safety rules.

Before fitting one though, make sure the chassis is sound and able to take the immense forces generated during a winch recovery. A winch bumper should be well mounted and properly made.

Its usually recommended to fit a winch with a minimum 8000lb pulling capacity, loaded with about 25 metres of either steel or synthetic cable. While you are at it, make sure you carry the proper winching kit, which includes heavy duty gloves.

I cannot stress the safety aspect too highly: even among experienced off roaders, accidents do happen, and accidents involving winches can be very nasty indeed. If you are a newcomer to winching, I would strongly advise taking a proper course on the subject with a reputable off road school.

Remember, an electric winch imposes severe drain on your battery, so you may wish to fit a second axillary battery to your vehicle to power the winch and lights etc. using a split charge system.

Even if you don't fit a winch, you can carry a hand operated Tirfor winch, but as these are almost as expensive as electric winches, and nearly as heavy. They also take up room inside the vehicle too - so think carefully before purchasing one.