I am considering putting a winch in my f150. I originally wanted to install it like wingman4, but I am now considering the warn XD9000i portable or the smittybilt black box. I was wondering if anyone had any pictures or either 3 options. thanks CAFX4

 

I always recommend permanently mounting the winch. Mine is mounted using a semi hidden kit from Warn. As far as the brand goes, if you stick with the well known brands you will be alright.

Before you purchase the portable winches ponder the following. Lift and carry the portable winch 20 feet. Imagine doing this on the side of a slope or in mud that is ankle deep. If the receiver is in the mud or there is not enough room to insert the winch in the receiver you now have a 100 lbs anchor. If you drive with it mounted to avoid this, look at how far it sticks out. Your approach angle is greatly reduced. Here is an old picture of mine. Notice how the mount acts as an extra frame cross member.

 

sorrry but i am confused. the approach angle is reduced with a mounted winch or a portable winch? and what do you mean by approach angle?

 

The more something sticks out past the front wheels the smaller the approach angle. The smaller the angle the less able your truck is able the climb obstacles.

A portable winch sticks out quite far.

 

ok i understand, i just was confused. thanks a lot though it is definitely something to consider. If i put one in i would most likely now mount it behind the bumper, because i would want it to be hidden in that case. I see that you are using the XD9000i which is the same one that came with the portable mount. How has it held up to how your using it?

 

I have had it since 1997. While it seems to need maintenance every so often it deserves its reputation as a high quality product.

 

Here are some pics of the semi hidden on my '03 before i got rid of it. The roller fairlead hang down a bit due to the 3" body lift i had on it. You can see in the pic where the plastic was cut originally before the lift. I like this better because like what JMC said and the extra strength of being mounted to the frame.

 

is there a problem with the mounting plate rusting out? Also will the mounting plate hold a mile marker winch?

 

Most winches have the same mounting bolt pattern so the mile marker should not be a problem. If you keep it painted it will last as long as your frame. Mine was purchased in 1997.