How to Install Winch Bumper and Winch on Jeep Cherokee XJ – Industry Mag industrymag.org

With the factory bumper removed and your mounting points reinforced, it is far easier to mount the winch to the bumper before lifting the assembly onto the vehicle . Bolt your winch to the recessed mounting plate on the new bumper, route the fairlead through the front opening, and attach the control box according to the winch manufacturer’s instructions. The winch’s power cables should be routed but left disconnected at this stage.

Now, enlist a friend. Winch bumpers are heavy—often 80 to 120 pounds before adding the winch . Lift the complete assembly into position, slide the mounting brackets over the frame rails, and loosely install all bolts. Tighten them gradually, working from the rear mounting points forward, using blue Loctite on all threads to prevent vibration from loosening them over time . Do not fully torque anything until all bolts are in place and the bumper is level.