Tacoma Winch Recommendation

DblD

Adventurer
I’m picking up an ARB bumper this week. Next in line for additions to the truck is a winch. I’ve done some searching here and on other forums but can’t find good information on what has worked for others.

Will an 8,000lbs winch be sufficient? Sierra Expeditions has the Warn M8000 currently on sale for around $560.00. I’m really liking the price on this unit.

Should I save my pennies a bit longer and step up to a 9,000lbs or 9,5000lbs winch?

I keep telling myself that I will not put the new bumper on the truck until I can mount a winch at the same time… Not so sure I had handle having the ARB laying around in the garage for a month or two. Might just have to mount it up, and then disassemble when it’s time to mount the winch.

The truck is an ’09 Dbl Cab Tacoma with a curb weigh of around 4155lbs plus people, pets, and gear. Any and all thoughts will be much appreciated.

dd
 

robert

Expedition Leader
Bigger is better if you can afford it. Better to have the extra power and not need it than to need it and not have it. Remember that rating is on the first wrap, for a straight line pull under ideal conditions, etc. I've got an XD9000 o the current Taco and my last one had an HS9500.

Whatever way you go be sure you get a snatch block along with all of the other accessories to go with it.
 

RU55ELL

Explorer
I don't think the ARB has to be removed to add the winch. Just remove the skidplate, and push the winch up into the bumper. I'm waiting on a winch myself. The price of the Smittybilt is so appealing, but I know that getting what I pay for probably applies in this situation.
 
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Lichen

Explorer
Agree, an M8000 is plenty. I'm using an old M5000 off a F-150 that was given to me. Free is a good price.
 

CYi5

Explorer
Go Overland has a 9k winch for cheap!

Wow that is cheap...tempting.

Check out this thread. Some really good information that helped me decide what winch i'll be going for in the future (Superwinch EP9.0). I'm leaning towards that one due to the fact that the brake is on the outside of the drum and will not heat up the line as fast...Then again..That T-Maxx GoOverland has higher HP AND a lower gear ratio...
 
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SilverBullet

Explorer
Just my $.02, I bought a Smittybuilt for cheap an dlove it. No tproblems, easy to install, and for casual use, anythign is better than nothing, and this things works great.
 

Jacket

2008 Expedition Trophy Champion
Agreed on the M8000. Plenty of pulling power for a Tacoma, and lighter than the 9000 lb winches. Every lb matters.....

Now if you think you'll be routinely recovering an FZJ80 fully outfitted with all the aftermarket goodies, then maybe something bigger than a M8000 would be wise.
 

RU55ELL

Explorer
Bigger is better if you can afford it. Better to have the extra power and not need it than to need it and not have it. Remember that rating is on the first wrap, for a straight line pull under ideal conditions, etc. I've got an XD9000 o the current Taco and my last one had an HS9500.

Whatever way you go be sure you get a snatch block along with all of the other accessories to go with it.

I'm wondering if maybe the winch would last longer if it was more overkill for the application.
 

DblD

Adventurer
Great response. Thanks to all. I never realized how many different winch options were out there. I’m leaning towards something with an 8,000lbs rating. Anyone have any thoughts on Ramsey? How about one of he forum sponsors – Pierce Winch?

Thanks again,
dd
 

Westy

Adventurer
You cannot go wrong with an M8000 from Warn. Simple, reliable, compact and light. The price is right too.

Put on 80' of 3/8 Synthetic line and buy a line extension along with a snatch block and you will be prepared for most situations. Do your homework on some correct winching procedures, ie: snatch block use, etc and that M8K will handle all the duties.
 

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