I recently began to assemble a bunch of offroad gear. I haven't decided which truck I am install it on yet, but I should be receiving tomorrow:

Rugged Ridge 15100.01 8,500-Pound Winch with Steel Cable
Smittybilt 29312B Receiver Hitch D-Ring with 3/4-Inch Shackle for 2-Inch Receivers
ARB ARB705US 2-3/8" x 30' Recovery Strap - 17500 lbs Capacity
ARB ARB720US 2-1/8" x 60' Winch Extension Strap - 9900 lbs Capacity

I also bought a Lincoln Promig 140 mig welder, I have LeeRaider's old rear bumper laying in my garage, and also LeeRaiders massive gas tank armor. The rear bumper I am more interested in making into a front bumper. The tank armor is too small to fit the V6 tank, so I will probably sell or end up chopping up for building material. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

For what its worth, I bought the RuggedRidge because they are a Wire sponsor, and also they at least offer front hubs for the Mitsu trucks. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

You list items that every one that leaves the pavement should be carrying.

The hitch receive d-ring mount is a good choice for a solid connection spot for recovery strap. The hitch is centered which avoids the strange pulls necessary with odd angle connections.

When I designed the front bumper of my old CJ5, I had my buddy weld in a 2" receiver in the center.

For a winch extension, I have a 50' cable that was made as aircraft tie-down cable. It is 3/8" steel cable and does coil into a compact roll that fits under the passenger front seat out of the way.

I would recommend that you do add a snatch block and a "tree-saver" stray to the recovery gear collection.

I have used my 10' tree-saver strap more than my 20' strap.

The tree saver and snatch block are on the list for next pay. I am taking babysteps, I used to only have a giant tow truck chain and a come along. I have also had the misfortune of being stuck 5 hours outside cell coverage, and lucky enough to walk my way to safety. Been there done that, not doing it again (if I can help it) <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shiner.gif" alt="" />

Pictures, weight?? <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

I can dig it out sometime, but weight? Ummm F#$king heavy...

Life lessons have a way of inspiring action. I do have a winch and hi-lift that are permanent fixtures on the jeep. Frequently, (when I head out in the desert alone) I will toss in a come-along that is rated at 6000 lbs with a 50' cable. The time I didn't have it, it would have made life easier....

12' of chain with grab hooks
large shackle (easy connect of straps and chain)
1' of 2.5" pvc pipe with glued cap on one end and screw cap on the other (chain storage)
snatch strap
tree save strap
folding shovel/pick combo
farm jack (stouter and more pull than comealong, but less pull length - and lots of other uses)

I like a hydraulic winch - monted on a winch plate with a 2" receiver mount, it's out of the weather, and with a set of quick disco's on front a rear, you can pull in either direction...

Hilift jacks or farm jacks are great tools but they demand respect, or you may look like this <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shiner.gif" alt="" />. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/pfft.gif" alt="" />

I recommend getting one of the solid plastic jack bases, I have been really glad I have had mine when I had to use my hilift in soft ground etc.

If you can fit it inside keep it inside. At the very minimum keep the jack mechanism of the beam and inside so it stays clean. They are finicky beasts when they are all gritty and full of mud.

Stand to the side, especially when lowering the vehicle. They can get away from you and you don't want to catch the jack handle in your face! Don't stand directly infront of the jack, way more chance of getting a nice facial fracture!

Sounds like the voice of experience talking!!!! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Long before the plastic bases were available, I used some scrap 3/4" plywood and made a 12x12 base. I still carry it in my jeep.

Keeping the hi-lift mechanism clean is sage advice. I carry a can of WD-40 and spray the mechanism prior to use.

For those that use a winch, check this link: http://www.4x4wire.com/new-products/practice-safe-winching

Cool product that provides a tire block when winching.

Agreed on the hilift. Great investment. If you store it outside then you should also buy a rebuild kit and just keep it with your tools so if you need to, you can rebuild it in the field.

That tree strap is very high on my list of purchases then shortly after that synthetic winch line.



Wow, $100 for that wheel chock? <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/zombie.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/scared.gif" alt="" /> I could see maybe $20 or $30 for it since it's made in the USA.

I guess I'm cheap and will simply use a rock or piece of firewood instead.