Winches are the best way to haul a trailer. But do they work well on an FJ cruiser?
Most people with an FJ cruiser know nothing about them because FJs are less common than a traditional pick-up truck.
So, they never had a chance to find out about them. And this makes it difficult to buy a decent winch for it.
The problem is that most winches used in FJ cruisers are too expensive for an average person.
And the affordable ones do not have enough power to do the job.
In this article, I will show you the 8 best winches for FJ cruisers that you can use today.
These winches are affordable, and most are great because they have more than enough power to do the job.
So if you want to buy a new winch for your FJ cruiser today, read on…
Quick Summary:
1- Smittybilt GEN 2 XRC Winch | 9,500 Pound Load Capacity:
Smittybilt GEN is a great winch for those who need to tow up to 9,500 pounds.
It’s easy to use and comes with all the necessary hardware.
2- FIERYRED 12V Electric Winch With Synthetic Rope 4500LBS Wireless Towing Winch Kits:
Fieryred electric winch is amazing! It’s super easy to use and it’s really helped me out with 4,500 lbs pulling capacity when I’m stuck in the mud.
3- X-BULL 12V 4500LBS Synthetic Rope Electric Winch With Mounting Bracket Wireless Remote:
X-Bull winch is exactly what I needed to get my ATV out of the mud! It’s durable and easy to use, and the price was unbeatable.
4- MotoAlliance VIPER Midnight ATV/UTV Winch With 50 Feet BLACK Synthetic Rope:
This is one bad-ass winch. If you’re looking for a winch that can handle anything you throw at it, this is the one you want.
5- SuperATV Black Ops 3500 LB Winch Kit For UTV/ATV:
SuperATV winch is the perfect addition to my UTV. It’s well made and very easy to install.
The waterproof seals and solenoid make it perfect for any weather conditions.
6- Warn 89611 ZEON 10-S Winch With Synthetic Rope – 10000 lb. Capacity:
A perfect addition to your jeep. It’s small and compact, but it packs a powerful punch.
I’ve used it to pull my jeep out of some pretty tight spots and it’s never let me down.
The synthetic rope is strong and durable, making it ideal for use in saltwater conditions.
7- WARN 96805 VR8-S Electric 12V Winch With Synthetic Rope:
WARN electric winch is the perfect addition to my recovery gear.
It’s lightweight, easy to use, and has plenty of power to get me out of any sticky situation.
8- Smittybilt 98612 XRC 12K GEN3 Winch COMP Series:
This winch is the perfect addition to your recovery gear.
It’s lightweight and easy to use, which is essential when you’re out in the middle of nowhere.
Image | Product | Detail | Price |
---|---|---|---|
1- Smittybilt GEN 2 XRC Winch |
| Check Price | |
2- FIERYRED 12V Electric Winch |
| Check Price | |
3- X-BULL 12V 4500LBS Synthetic Rope Electric Winch |
| Check Price | |
4- MotoAlliance VIPER Midnight ATV/UTV Winch |
| Check Price | |
5- SuperATV Black Ops 3500 LB Winch Kit for UTV/ATV |
| Check Price | |
6- Warn 89611 ZEON 10-S Winch |
| Check Price | |
7- WARN 96805 VR8-S Electric 12V Winch |
| Check Price | |
8- Smittybilt 98612 XRC 12K GEN3 Winch |
| Check Price |
Detailed Review Of 8 Best Winches For FJ Cruiser:
1- Smittybilt GEN 2 XRC Winch | 9,500 Pound Load Capacity:
Technical Details:
- Item weight: 78 pounds
- Item dimension: 5.4 x 9.4 x 22.3 inches
- Warranty: 3-years warranty
- Load capacity: 9.500 pounds
The Smittybilt GEN 2 XRC Winch is the best-selling winch for its reliable performance and long life.
The GEN 2 XRC Winch has a dual-stage, 5-amp solenoid, 3-stage planetary gear-train, and a 4-way roller fairlead to provide superior power in the most adverse conditions.
With an impressive 500 AMP rating, it is ready to perform in even the most extreme environments.
The GEN 2 XRC Winch is also waterproof and is entirely compatible with several of Smittybilt’s other accessories.
The GEN 2 XRC Winch also has a 1/4″ polyurethane grip for better grip and a large cast iron drum for maximum torque.
Unique Features Of Smittybilt GEN 2 XRC Winch:
1-One Of The Best Winch
The GEN2 winch is designed for heavy-duty applications.
You’ll be proud to install it in your boat or recreational vehicle and know that you have a winch that will perform well for years.
2-Heavy Duty Performance
GEN2 winch has a large gear ratio of 1.5 to 5, which is ideal for pulling boats and other loads.
It comes with a 6.6 HP motor, a high amperage solenoid, a lead length of 4 feet and a planetary gearbox for smooth operation.
3-Great Value
Smittybilt GEN2 XRC is priced competitively but still gives you a lot of bang for your buck.
It comes with everything you need to get started:
- A winch with a 3-stage planetary gearbox,
- A dual-stage, 500 Amp solenoid,
- A wire rope with a 93.5″ diameter, a fairlead,
- A 4-way roller and a lead adjuster.
Benefits of using Smittybilt GEN 2 XRC Winch:
1-Waterproof
The IP67 rating ensures that the XRC winch will not suffer a single drop of water while performing a winch function.
2-Powerful
The XRC winch comes equipped with a 6.6 HP Series Wound motor, a robust and reliable solution to pull in, lift and recover boats, vehicles, or any other object that needs to be pulled.
3-Sturdy
XRC Winches are designed to be highly durable, and they can withstand even the roughest conditions and environments.
4-Reliable
All XRC Winches come backed with a 5-year Electrical and Mechanical Warranty.
5-Multiple Functions
The XRC winch can perform all functions such as lifting, pulling, recovering and transporting.
It also comes with multiple accessories such as a chain hook, tow point and a hand winch.
6-Versatile
The XRC winch is ideal for boats, vessels, trailers, vehicles, and construction equipment.
7-Lightweight
The XRC winch is a lightweight, portable, and easy-to-use winch.
It is capable of moving objects weighing as little as 18 pounds.
8-Faster, Longer Lifespan
The XRC winch uses a compact, efficient motor that can maintain its life span for up to 15 years.
The winch also offers excellent value for money.
9-Durable
The XRC winch has a heavy-duty steel frame and high tensile strength cables that will provide you with years of quality, hassle-free service.
2- FIERYRED 12V Electric Winch with Synthetic Rope 4500LBS Wireless Towing Winch Kits:
Technical Details:
- Item weight: 23.8 pounds
- Pulling capacity: 4,500 lbs
- Length of synthetic rope: 15 m
- Material: alloy steel
- Voltage: 12 volts
We were searching for a product that could do double duty for our ATV and UTV, and then we came across this awesomely strong and tough electric winch.
We were looking for a winch that would be powerful enough to pull an ATV that is not only big but extremely heavy too, and this FieryRed 12V electric winch has proven to be just what we were looking for.
Its 1.9 HP permanent magnet motor and 3-stage planetary gear system allow the winch to produce massive pulling power of 4,500lbs.
It uses a synthetic rope, which makes it very tough and safe, and it has an automatic brake that protects you and the object you are trying to pull when the rope is broken.
It also has the highest waterproof IP-67 rating, meaning there will be no harm to your sensitive electronic parts and systems.
With this winch, we can easily pull out an ATV stuck in the mud and get it up without going through any drilling.
You’d be surprised how much strength the winch provides, so you don’t have to worry about it failing.
The steel reinforced drum allows you to use high-quality cable, and you can even upgrade to a steel cable later.
Overall, this is an excellent product that is built for heavy-duty use, and we highly recommend it to anyone who needs a winch that is capable of pulling heavier loads than before.
Benefits of using FIERYRED 12V Electric Winch
1-4,500 lbs Towing Capacity
This is the only winch that can deliver up to 4,500 lbs of pulling capacity.
2-Strong Steel, Powder Coated
The powerful motor and the heavy-duty and high-quality components make this winch stand up to extreme conditions and a demanding environment.
3-Rustproof, Corrosion-resistant
Made from high-strength steel, this winch is coated with a protective layer of powder and features a high-quality zinc plating finish that ensures a long lifespan.
4-Strong Rope with Brake
The rope is designed to resist breaking, while the built-in brake ensures the rope stays steady no matter how heavy or long it is.
5-Simple Installation
It’s easy to install and wire, and the whole process is simple and hassle-free.
Feature of FIERYRED 12V Electric Winch:
1-Wireless Control Up To 25m
The wireless remote control can extend up to 25m with 2.4GHz RF technology, and you can enjoy a wide range of control options.
2-Locking Rope Release
A spring-loaded hook can automatically release the rope, and the rope is locked to secure the position of the ATV.
3-Lights
The ATV winch features an LED lighting system and is also very easy to install, wire, and operate.
4-Automatic brake
The ATV winch can automatically brake once a specific length of rope is reached to ensure your vehicle’s and your safety.
5-Warranty
This winch is covered under a full 1-year warranty from the date of purchase.
3- X-BULL 12V 4500LBS Synthetic Rope Electric Winch with Mounting Bracket Wireless Remote:
Technical Details:
- Item weight: 9.49 pounds
- Item dimension: 16.25 x 11.25 x 6.75 inches
- Voltage: 12 volts
- Pulling capacity: 4,500 lbs
I have never owned an electric winch and decided to try it for fun.
I love the control system on the remote, and it’s super simple to learn and use.
The pull strength is excellent, even in the snow.
You can pull it with just the remote, and it’s so convenient! I love the pull-off brake and the way it engages.
It gives a smooth stop and no jerking.
The safety features, such as a warning chime and an emergency brake, are excellent.
I love that you can attach accessories like a fairlead, chain, and rope grabber to the winch.
There are many colors and styles of accessories to choose from.
There are plenty of ways to get your car stuck.
The X-BULL electric winch can help you get it unstuck.
This is a good choice if you don’t need a heavy-duty winch for off-road use.
The X-BULL 4500 lb electric winch with IP67 waterproof is a must-have for anyone wanting a lightweight and low-cost winch.
Its compact size is perfect for hauling around.
Benefits of using X-BULL 12V 4500LBS Synthetic Rope Electric Winch
1-IP67:
It can resist dust, rain, snow, sleet, hail, frost, salt and sand.
2-High precision wireless remote control:
It will not be restricted by terrain and weather, which is very easy to use.
Features of X-BULL 12V 4500LBS Synthetic Rope Electric Winch:
1-Small Size and Lightweight
It is convenient to carry and can be carried for a long time.
2-3 Stage Planetary Gear System:
It can achieve auto braking, realize the fastest speed and a certain guarantee, and provide safe and reliable power under any circumstances.
3-Automatic Braking:
It can automatically release brakes and realize the safest and quickest acceleration, thus achieving the purpose of emergency rescue in an emergency.
4-Remote Control:
It adopts a high-precision mini digital wireless remote control and can operate the winch efficiently, quickly and accurately.
5-Easy Installation:
The winch and fairlead installation are simple, easy to install and operate, and easy to maintain.
6-Safety:
All parts are made of ABS the surface is smooth, the winch is safe and stable, and the power transmission is stable.
7-Durability:
It can endure all conditions and be operated over a long period.
8-Convenient Maintenance:
You can replace its parts with ease and no maintenance to save much.
4- MotoAlliance VIPER Midnight ATV/UTV Winch with 50 feet BLACK Synthetic Rope:
Technical Details:
- Item weight: 11.28 pounds
- Item dimension: 13.1 x 4.5 x 4.5 inches
- Rope: size 50 feet
- Pulling capacity: 4,500 lbs
One of the best features of the MotoAlliance VIPER is its compatibility with most major brands.
With a wide range of motors, you’re guaranteed to find one that works perfectly for your needs.
With the ability to get off the ground quickly, it’s a versatile winch.
The high-quality components ensure that it will last a long time, and the powerful 1.8 hp motor has enough strength to pull a truck trailer.
If your application calls for a higher pulling capacity, you can upgrade it to the 2.5hp model.
MotoAlliance includes premium components, such as stainless steel gears and a wide array of aftermarket accessories for the best performance and quality.
All you need to do is install them and connect everything, and you’re good to go.
The Polaris Viper series winch is highly recommended.
It provides an incredible amount of pulling power at an affordable price.
Benefits of using MotoAlliance VIPER Midnight ATV/UTV Winch:
1-Motor Power
The 1.8 HP high torque motor provides plenty of power to move this Winch.
A full 1-year warranty also backs it.
2-Stainless Steel Hardware
It is built using only stainless steel hardware, making it durable and easy to maintain.
3-Easy To Install
This Winch comes ready to install, saving you time and money.
4-Rocker Handlebar Switch
Pull the rope and push the rocker handlebar switch to open and close the Winch.
5-Remote Control
Wireless remote control is included to help you operate the Winch from a distance.
Features of MotoAlliance VIPER Midnight ATV/UTV Winch:
1-Compatible With Major Brands
This Winch is compatible with all major brands, including Polaris, Yamaha, Can-Am, Yamaha, Honda, Kubota, John Deere, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Arctic Cat CF-Moto, + MORE…
2-Ladder Lock
Pull the rope to keep the Winch locked, and the lock is automatically released.
3-Wire To Winch
The Winch is wired to the electrical contactor/solenoid for easy and safe operation.
4-Load Holding
This Winch is equipped with a mechanical load holding system that automatically holds the load while the Winch is not activated.
5-Dynamic Brake
The Winch is equipped with a dynamic brake that stops the Winch immediately when the load is released.
6-50 Feet Black Synthetic Rope
The 50 feet black synthetic rope is also included to provide additional winching options.
5- SuperATV Black Ops 3500 LB Winch Kit for UTV/ATV:
Technical Details:
- Item weight: 30.1 pounds
- Item dimension: 16.22 x 12.83 x 8.35 inches
- Pulling capacity: 3,500 lbs
- Wireless remote: 50 feet range
If you own an ATV or UTV, you’ll need a winch to get your machine out of tricky situations.
That’s where the SuperATV Black Ops 3500lb Winch Kit comes in, and it’s perfect for such situations.
It can handle anything your machine may throw at it, and with a super strong motor, it can easily haul your ATV or UTV out of trouble.
To ensure you never lose control of your vehicle again, the Black Ops 3500lb Winch Kit is equipped with a heavy-duty winch, which ensures that you can easily pull your machine out of the mud and snow and prevent the vehicle from toppling over.
The winch also has a large capacity, so you’ll be able to pull the most challenging vehicles out of any situation.
The winch also has a powerful motor, which can easily pull out objects that weigh up to 1,000 pounds (454 kg).
While this winch is pretty compact, it can lift various vehicles, so you should be able to get it to work for all of them. Installation is as easy as pie.
Just slide it into the winch mount, and hook up the wiring to the battery.
This winch shouldn’t take much time to set it up.
The winch also comes with a bunch of extras.
There’s a nice dashboard rocker switch that you can use to start the winch, and it also has a wired dash rocker switch that you can hook up to anything else.
So, it can double as a starter or brake when you need it.
Two types of ropes come with the winch. The first is 50 feet (15 m), and the second is 100 feet (30 m).
The winch has an adjustable hook that you can set in any direction and comes with an optional winch hook kit.
This winch is not just limited to ATVs and UTVs, though. It works on any vehicle with a 4.87″ (124 mm) to 6.8″ (172 mm) wide bumper mounting slot.
It is also very easy to use, and it’s pretty much plug-and-play. With this winch, you’ll always be ready for any emergency.
Benefits of using SuperATV Black Ops 3500 LB Winch:
1-Wireless Remote
This winch is equipped with wireless remote control, which allows you to operate it from up to 50 ft. away efficiently.
2-Auto Brake
The auto brake automatically holds the winch spool when you release the rope and set the vehicle in motion.
3-Powerful
The 1.2 HP motor is powerful enough to pull up to 3,500 lb. and can easily lift a full-sized SUV.
4-Sturdy
The steel construction of this winch means it will last for years, and it can handle a wide range of applications, from small utility vehicles to full-sized pickups.
5-Longer Lifespan
The winch is designed to be strong, reliable, and built to last.
It’s engineered to withstand the elements and can be used for a long time, even in the harshest conditions.
6-Easy to Operate
The simple controls and the fact that it’s powered by a 12-volt battery mean this winch is simple to operate.
7-Simple to Install
This winch can be installed in minutes, even if you have little experience with automotive repairs.
Features of SuperATV Black Ops 3500 LB Winch:
1-Weather-Proof
This winch is designed to withstand the elements. It can be used in wet or dry conditions and won’t rust or corrode.
2-Strong
The steel construction of this winch means it will last for years, and it can handle a wide range of applications, from the small utility.
3-Lightweight, High Quality
The SuperATV 3500 lb. The winch is designed and built to withstand harsh environments and abuse and is easy to use.
6- Warn 89611 ZEON 10-S Winch with Synthetic Rope – 10000 lb. Capacity:
Technical Details:
- Item weight: 80.4 pounds
- Item dimension: 26.25 x 8.5 x 19.75 inches
- Voltage: 12 Volts
- Pulling capacity: 10,000 lbs
This is an excellent product for the price.
It is effortless to set up, and once connected to the ground it does not slip or move around.
The winch works smoothly the only issue I had was that I couldn’t attach the control box to the end of the rope because there is no longer a handle.
But if that’s an issue, a hole in the center would accommodate a handle.
It holds up to 10,000 pounds, which is great for most residential swimming pools.
It is quiet while working, and the only downside is that the rope does not come with a quick-release feature as some others do.
However, it was still a great product at the price point.
Benefits of using Warn 89611 ZEON 10-S Winch:
1-One-of-a-kind Design
The ZEON 10-S is designed with one purpose: the ability to pull, push and handle materials and loads of all sizes.
This is achieved with a unique planetary gear train and series-wound motor.
2-Stylish
It is a stylish winch with an advanced design with the same looks on the motor and gear side.
3-Durable
This winch is built to last and will withstand the elements.
4-Efficient
ZEON 10-S is the perfect winch for light work, a small boat or even a recreational vehicle.
5-Ease of Installation
No need to purchase a trailer to tow your winch.
Simply remove the front panel of ZEON 10-S and put it on your vehicle.
Features of Warn 89611 ZEON 10-S Winch:
1-Symmetrical
ZEON 10-S winch has a symmetrical design that allows the operator to use it with one hand.
2-Unique
The winch is the only winch to feature a unique and advanced planetary gear train with a series-wound motor.
3-Compact
It has a compact body with a broad base that is an excellent fit for most vehicles.
7- WARN 96805 VR8-S Electric 12V Winch with Synthetic Rope:
Technical Details:
- Item weight: 53.5 pounds
- Item dimension: 25 x 14 x 9 inches
- Voltage: 12 volts
- Pulling capacity: 8,000 lbs
- Warranty: 7-years warranty
If you’re someone who needs a versatile electric winch that’s powerful but easy to use, then the WARN VR8-S 8,000 lb. The winch is ideal for you.
This electric winch is made with the highest quality and best components and has passed several tests to ensure that it’s safe and reliable.
This winch will last for years with a robust and sturdy body and solid Construction.
Weighing a little over 17 lbs., it has a 4-ton (8,000 lb.) pulling capacity and is built to last with a 1.5m long 3/8″ diameter rope.
The winch is controlled by a compact, ergonomic, easy-to-use 2-button control pack.
The handle is conveniently positioned on the side of the winch, while the control pack is attached at the bottom of the handle and is easily accessible.
It features a 3-setting operation mode for quick operation.
There are three types of grips to choose from: the standard grip, the universal grip, and the safety grip.
It comes with a large locking pin, a removable rope lock to prevent accidents from occurring, a high-quality rope, and a 4-point roller.
This winch has passed all the required tests and has been proven to be 100% reliable.
Benefits of using WARN 96805 VR8-S Electric 12V Winch:
1-Easy to operate
The WARN motor offers easy-to-read dials and buttons for simple control.
It also provides instant torque with its patented speed control technology.
2-Versatile
The winch is designed to mount in various configurations, making it versatile.
3-Quality
The WARN motor is a rugged, durable, and reliable motor.
4-Convenient Control
Three control modes offer a comfortable pulling experience.
Features of WARN 96805 VR8-S Electric 12V Winch:
1-Wide-Range
With the WARN motor, you will always have the power to pull anything you encounter.
2-High Pull Power
With an 8,000 lb pulling capacity, this motor offers enough power for even the largest loads.
3-Safety
The WARN motor offers full braking capability for safe and secure operation.
4-Easy Installation
The WARN winch is easy to install and requires no drilling.
5-Powerful
It is robust and reliable, providing instant torque and allowing you to accelerate loads quickly.
6-Rigid Construction
The WARN motor features a rugged, sturdy design for years of trouble-free use.
7-Quick Start
It has a powerful starter motor that offers an easy and efficient start.
8-Powerful Brake
The WARN motor is fitted with a powerful brake mechanism to help you maintain control over your load.
9-Smooth
The WARN electric winch is built with a smooth, quiet, and silent engine that operates smoothly and quietly.
10-Long Service Life
This winch is built to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, giving you many years of trouble-free service.
8- Smittybilt 98612 XRC 12K GEN3 Winch COMP Series:
Technical Details:
- Item weight: 72 pounds
- Item dimension: 27 x 14 x 10 inches
- Pulling capacity: 12,000 lbs
The Smittybilt 98612XRC 12K GEN3 winch COMP Series is one of the best winches we’ve tested, and it won’t disappoint you either.
When dealing with the heavy loads of your boat and trailer, you need a winch that will hold up under all kinds of weather conditions.
This 12K Genset has the power to do so and is one of the most durable.
Not only does this 12K have a powerful 7.0HP motor that can haul up to 2,500 lbs and a 7.9 HP planetary gear reduction unit that allows it to work efficiently while maintaining a shallow AMP draw.
At a 12 percent average line speed increase over the Gen2, this winch will help you pull more weight faster with less stress on your vehicle’s battery.
But even if your batteries are dead, this winch still functions with a built-in flashlight.
It comes with its winch and fairlead, so it will quickly spool out a rope no matter how dark it gets.
But even better, the Smittybilt 98612XRC 12K Genset winch COMP Series comes with a new Load Indicat
or Warning System which will let you know when it’s overloaded, so you’ll never be caught off guard.
The Smittybilt 98612XRC 12K Genset winch COMP Series has a robust construction with all stainless steel gears, bearings, and other components, and a 5-year warranty backs it.
You can also use this winch for small cars, as it has a 4.5″ gear and 5.5″ ratio.
Benefits of using Smittybilt GEN3 Winch:
1-Faster Line Speed Increase
The Gen3 XRC winch has been designed with 12-volt power to offer faster line speeds with less AMP draw.
2-Greater Efficiency
The motor has been upgraded with a 12-volt power port for greater capacity.
3-Ergonomic Remote Controller
The remote is easy to operate with a high-visibility clutch lever and a built-in flashlight.
4-Increased Load Capacity
The XRC Gen3 winch offers higher load capacities for more power to tackle the most demanding loads.
5-Improved Brake Performance
The winch is equipped with a drum brake and an improved brake pedal assembly, significantly improving brake performance.
6-High-Viz Clutch Lever
The high-visibility clutch lever makes it easier to see whether your winch is engaged/free spooled at a glance.
7-Magnet Mount
A strong magnet is built into the handle for placement on any metal surface.
8-Body Armor
The body armor can be removed and used as a custom winch for further customization.
9-Synthetic rope
The synthetic rope is a standard part of the COMP series but can be purchased separately for easy replacement.
10-Aluminum Hawse Fairlead
The aluminum hawse fairlead is a standard feature in the COMP series and can be purchased separately for easy replacement.
Features of Smittybilt GEN3 Winch:
1-Lifetime Mechanical warranty
If a mechanical problem develops in your winch, a registered professional will be able to repair or replace it at no charge to you under warranty.
2-5-Year Electrical warranty
A registered professional will be able to service your winch should a problem arise.
3-Lifetime Customer Service
If you need help, pick up the phone. We are here to help.
4-Hover-Sealed motor
A hover seal protects the electrical motor of your winch, keeping dirt and moisture out.
5-High-Viz Clutch Lever
More extensive, easier to read lettering.
6-Magnets Built Into Controller
Placed in a convenient location, saving you time when removing the unit.
7-Body Armor
Mounts on your vehicle, leaving it out of the way.
Essential Things To Consider Before Buying The Best Winches For Fj Cruiser:
If you’re shopping for a winch for your Fj Cruiser, you have come to the right place.
The most commonly recommended winches for Fj Cruisers include the 3-ton and 4-ton winches.
But is one overkill for Fj Cruiser, and should you consider buying another type?
Below are the essential things you must consider before buying the best winches for Fj Cruiser.
What Is A Winch, And How Do They Work?
A winch is a device used to raise, lower or draw in a load suspended below a vehicle.
This is achieved by attaching the winch to the vehicle and then lifting the winch handle.
Once this is done, the load being hauled in, raised, or lowered will be connected to the winch.
There are two main types of winches: hydraulic and electric winches.
Hydraulic winches, the older type of winches, are powered by oil.
This oil is pumped through a hydraulic circuit, and the pump creates high pressure within the system.
The high pressure pushes a piston back and forth, creating movement in the hydraulic fluid.
This hydraulic fluid is then pushed through hydraulic tubes and connected to a cylinder connected to the winch.
The cylinder contains a rubber band to lift, lower or drag the load.
To keep the rubber band from stretching too far, a mechanism is provided for the user to apply or release tension to the band.
An electric winch is powered by electricity. These winches have an electric motor and a gearbox connecting the winch to the vehicle.
The winch is similar to a hydraulic winch.
But, instead of a piston and hydraulic tubes, it uses an electric motor and a gearbox to turn the winch.
Which Winch-Type Is Best For My FJ Cruiser?
Winches are designed and created in many different ways for different purposes.
When purchasing a winch for Fj Cruiser, you need to think about the following:
Type Of Load You Will Be Hauling
The type of load you will be hauling is one crucial factor.
Winches are rated by their pulling capacity, so you’ll need to ensure the winch you purchase can handle the weight of your load.
Weight Capacity
The weight capacity will determine how much weight the winch can safely pull without damaging the equipment.
A winch with a higher weight capacity will be able to handle more weight, making it ideal for those who frequently use their Fj Cruiser for off-roading or towing.
Size And Type Of Winch
Before making a purchase, it is essential to consider the size and type of winch that best suits your needs.
Winches come in various sizes and styles, so selecting the one that will be most effective for your particular situation is vital.
Where Do You Plan On Placing The Winch
Some winches are designed on the front bumper, while others can be mounted on the rear or even underneath the vehicle.
Each location has its advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the location best suits your needs is essential.
The Amount Of Work You Plan On Doing
The amount of work you plan on doing is one of the main things to keep in mind.
If you plan on using the winch frequently, you’ll want to ensure that you buy a high-quality model that can handle many uses.
Price
There are a variety of winches on the market, ranging in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.
The most expensive winch is not necessarily the best option it is essential to consider your needs and budget when making a decision.
Now let’s take a look at the different winch types and their purpose in more detail:
3 TON WINCH
This is the most common winch for Fj Cruisers. It’s a 3-ton winch that is designed for heavier loads.
It is generally used for trailers, boats and oversized items.
The winch is powerful and used for pulling or hauling heavy loads.
The most significant advantage of this type of winch is that it has the highest winch capacity.
4 TON WINCH
This winch is similar to the 3-ton winch but is designed for greater load capacity.
You can use this winch for hauling trailers, boats and oversized items.
The 4-ton winch also has the highest capacity of all winch types.
This is because it can lift and drag loads up to four times the weight of the winch.
ALUMINUM WINCHES
This is another lightweight and versatile winch option.
Aluminum winches are the best option for people who want to haul small objects, such as a jack or dolly.
These winches are easy to install and take very little space. They are also affordable and reliable.
STEEL WINCHES
Steel winches are the best choice if you need a winch for more oversized items, such as a trailer, boat or vehicle.
Steel winches are generally heavy-duty and last for a long time.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What Is The Average Weight Of An FJ Cruiser?
The average weight of an fj cruiser is approximately 4,200 pounds.
This weight can vary depending on the model and year of the vehicle.
The fj cruiser is a midsize SUV that you first introduced in 2006.
It is available in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive models.
The fj cruiser has a V6 engine and seats up to five passengers.
What Capacity Of Winch Do I Need To Pull My FJ Cruiser?
The capacity of the winch you’ll need to pull your FJ Cruiser will depend on the make and model of your car, as well as the weight and size of your car.
You’ll also need to consider the terrain on which you’ll be pulling your car.
If you’re pulling your car out on a flat, level surface, you won’t need as much capacity as you would if you were pulling it out on a hill or an uneven surface.
A good rule of thumb is choosing a winch with a capacity of 1.5 times the vehicle’s weight.
For example, if your FJ Cruiserweight is 4,000 pounds, you would need a winch with a 6,000-pound capacity.
Which Winch Cable Is Better? Steel Cable Or Synthetic Rope?
There are a few factors to consider when determining which winch cable is better for a given application.
Steel cable is typically more potent than synthetic rope, making it a good choice for heavier loads.
However, steel cable is also more likely to kink or break if not used properly.
Synthetic rope is lighter and easier to handle than steel cable, making it a good choice for lighter loads.
However, UV light and sharp edges can damage the synthetic rope more efficiently.
What Is A Good Brand For A Winch?
It depends on various factors, including the type of winch, intended use, and personal preferences.
However, some well-known brands in the winching community are Warn, Superwinch, and Smittybilt.
These brands offer a good mix of quality and value and have a reputation for reliability and durability.
How Often Should You Replace Synthetic Winch Rope?
The frequency with which you should replace synthetic winch rope will depend on how often you use it and how well you maintain it.
If you use your winch regularly, you should inspect it regularly for fraying or other damage and replace the rope as necessary.
If you don’t use your winch often, you can get away with replacing the rope less frequently, but it’s still a good idea to inspect it regularly and replace it if necessary.
In general, however, it is recommended that synthetic winch rope be replaced every 3-5 years.
Bottom Line:
So, if you are ready to start your FJ Cruiser project, you’ve come to the right place!
We have a wealth of information about FJs here on our website. =
And this includes the 8 Best Winches for FJ Cruiser Review that we have written in detail on this page.
Before purchasing your new winch, ensure it works as advertised.
This is your only safety net against bad winches that aren’t what they claim to be.
After all, you wouldn’t be able to operate your truck if the winch you purchased didn’t work.
So make sure your winch has all the features you need to get your FJ Cruiser up and running safely.
If you’re unsure how to choose the right winch for you, you should check out our guide, How to Choose an FJ Cruiser Winch.
It can help you to figure out what you need to consider before buying one.
Also Read
Winch Cause Overheating ( How To Fix It )
Winch Cable Keeps Breaking When Plowing (Here’s The Solution )
What Is An Umbilical Winch? Comprehensive Guide
What Gear Do You Use When Winching? Everything You Need To Know
How To Protect Synthetic Winch Rope? Tips For Troubleshooting