How does the 3.0ci compare to the rt30

 

They are technically the same winch just wrapped in a different housing. The XT line is the same as the RT just with Synthetic rope and the one I would recommend.

 

By the way Welcome to the forms!

 

the 3.0 ci and RT30 is the same thing, both 3,000 lb winches, the 3.0 ci model, and they are both good winches, and have been tested and proved

 

Which one would you recomend and why? I have a 2009 Polaris 500 HO, or is a 2500lb winch enough?

 

The 3.0 is a nice winch but so is the 2.5. The 2.5 is more than enough for any mid size ATV tho the Polaris 500 is pushing 750LBS so that decision is up to you. Depending on the type of riding you do the 2.5 will work for most people tho most get caught up in the bigger is better mantra. I have put my XT2.5 though H_ _ and back on my 650LBS Grizzly and she keeps on ticking without issue.

 

i got a warn winch a yr a some ago. new. said it was 2500 but i think its a 3000. i use mine for plowing. and hasnet failed me yet. i paid $200 for it....

 

I'm not 100% sure, but I think the RT3.0 is the same as the 3.0ce, not to be confused with the 3.0ci, which is actually the same as the old 2500 Warn. The 3.0ce has a brake in it and I believe the RT3.0 does also. That is what makes it different than the older 3.0ci or Warn 2500. The brake holds the line in place when extended. The 3.0ci doesn't have a brake.

Hope that wasn't too confusing.

I would recommend any winch with a synthetic rope over the steel cable. Which brings you to the XT3.0 (I think has a brake also), Polaris with syn., Viper, etc......

 

the differnce betwen the ci or the ce. the ci model winch does not have the mechanical brake where the ce model. does i have the 3.0 ci and it is a great winch for sure. i have also had the 2,500 on my old 500 and actually got stuck in snow once and the winch would not get me out as it didn't have enough pulling power. personally i think you can never have enough or too much winch. imo

 

stendori, what kind of braking system does it have??