Lots of good information on this topic so far, guys!

I've never ridden a quad with a winch mount protruding beyond the front bumper; just by inspection, the arrangement looks like the quad's approach angle might be compromised when addressing a steep, high bank or, as mentioned, big log.

Sometimes the location of a radiator conflicts with behind-the-bumper mounting.

I believe the ideal winch arrangement would be; 1) behind the bumper; 2) fairlead no higher than front axle centerline height; 3) winch and wiring as high as possible (to avoid water and mud); 4) all controls easily accessible (e.g., freespool ****/lever).

Not all these goals may be possible on any given quad; some may even conflict with each other. Nevertheless, lots of good ideas on this topic suggest ways to reach the best compromise possible.

Now, a Pull-Pal for an ATV? I want one! I want one!

Tree Farmer

 

Whatever winch locaton/setup you use, I find that when approaching a possible 'sticky' situation, if you take the hook and hook it up on the racks, you won't have to reach down into the muck/water/goo/mold to get it when you need it.

Due to lack of significant rain down here, some of the bogs we find are.....well.....shall we say smelly from being stagnant. Hate to immerse arm up to elbow to retrieve hook.

 

TxDoc2 Never thought of a Pull-Pal for an ATV. Great idea! I remember seeing pictures and reading an article a few years ago for larger 4x4's. Could you post a picture or give an accurate description with dimensions of yours? I have a mig welder and do metal fabrication as a hobby. (actually just finished my new ATV trailer last night) I might even be able to do a few more (Pull-Pals) on a limited basis if anybody else is interested. Let me know
Sneeky


[This message has been edited by Sneekypete (edited 11-28-1999).]

 

In the dirtwheels magazine for december 1999, on page 125. They are talking about a hitch hopper kit. Where by pulling 1 pin you can switch the hitch from front to back or vise versea. Might be worth checking. They appear to have a web site: www.faymyers.com
They are called fay myers motorcycle world. They are out of Denver. I have never done business with them yet. -chet

 

I perfer a winch to be mounted up front at least half wat up the atv. I usually need mine for recovery from a MUDHOLE, I find that a winch mounted under the hood is alot harder reach when stuck and usually requres someone to wade through the mud just to get the winch in freespool etc.

 

I like the idea about mounting the winch on the front rack. Another thing to think about, what about having the winch mount made in such a way as to allow the winch to be used from the front, or back. Maybe that is what the fellow was talking about a couple of posts back. Later, Dave

 

By the way, what is a PULL PAL?
Later, Dave

 

A Pull-Pal is a device used in winching, similar to an anchor, which sticks in the ground and digs deeper the more it is "pulled". It is used when there isn nothing else to tie off to to winch such as trees or rocks. Do a search on Pull-Pal. You will see a web site for the manufacturer.
Sneeky

 

I have a 2500# warn on my 500 mag and it is mounted behind the tbe bumper. the fairlead is on the outside of the tubes. The dealer had to modify the stock mounting bracket to get the bumper to fit, but it is a really good look, plus the way I ride, I really need the bumpers. jonathan

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Wow guys thats a lot of good suggestions.
TxDoc..I really appreciate the offer to have your fried fab some thing up but my best fried works in a machie shop and said he could fab up what ever I need...If I could just make up my mind...lol Thanks a Lot
Rangerchet..That hitchhopper thing sounds like just the thing I need but I checked out their website and those things cost $296...dang!! Those guys are really proud of those things.
I really like the idea of putting it behind the front bumper. Just wish I had a pic of one to get some ideas from but I think I could do it without it.
You guys have been a great help.
Thanks Again
Andy G