I went to my buddies place to do some work on the 4Runner. I had to reinforce the frame where the steering box is mounted. Apparently it was in real bad shape.

 

While I was there, my friend mentioned how much work we would need to do to my truck to get it prepared for the Winch. Confused I asked "What winch" and then he continues to explain how he got a 12,000lb WARN to replace his 8000lb WARN. And that I'd be getting his old winch!

 

So... it didnt take long to start cutting plate and welding pieces.

 

Here is what we have to start with:

 

and here is the winch:

 

One simple plate, 4 holes... and here we have a mounted winch!

 

 

 

 

I have 25' of 1.75" tube to use, so when the weather clears up we'll have to bring out the bender. So far, I think i am going to do something simple like this:

 

 

Hopefully I'll have new updates shortly!

Looks good man, I dig that design! If it were me I would add a hoop for lights too, but that's just me, and either way it will look sweet and keep that winch safe

 

-Bill

There will be a hoop, but all that will come when I design the cage.

 

Right now, im worried about protecting the winch, and making sure everything its attached to is solid.

Ok... finished the bumper today. I didn't keep the my original plans, but I think it turned out pretty good.

 

 

 

 

 

 

last thing i need to do is fab a spot for a fairlead, wire the winch and its ready to go!!

Alright! Just about finished Final steps will be to install the fairlead & i may weld a hoop... i may not.

 

Today I hit it with a few coats of paint and did the final install on the winch. I think it turned out pretty good

 

 

 

 

 

And here it is sittin next to the Brat. Just for comparison

 

good? It turned out great!

Finished the Bumper yesterday. Welded some more plate in front of the winch for the fairlead. Then welded on two light tabs to hold some extra lights

 

 

I might fabricate some mounts for turn signals... but for now I am pretty satisfied... now its time to work on the rear bumper.

Wow man that thing looks so bad rump roast!!! I gotta get a winch for my new hatch.