Here's what I picked up yesterday for $350. I wanted one with more pulling power, and wanted to buy new but couldn't pass up this smokin deal.



It's got the stock wire cable, with a couple of kinks in it and a roller fairlead. Gonna replaced it with synthetic rope and a hawse fairlead since the roller will not fit on my MarlinCrawler bumper.

I've got two choices on winch rope.

5/16 x 100ft 13,700lbs
or
3/8 x 80ft 19,600lbs

Cost is dead even. It comes down to an extra 20ft and less strength or less footage and more strength. Those of you with synthetic ropes, what did you buy and any thoughts on the two sizes of ropes mention above. Also, any leads on who has the best price/service?

I put the 5/16" RockStomper (Amsteel) line on my XD9000. I did 80' on the winch as I recall and then had a 50' extension line made for the added length. Only used it a few times since respooling, but seems to work fine.

Funny, I have exactly what Roger has, but on my m8000. I bought Rockstompers accessory kit too.

I ran less than full capacity so that there is room for the rope to bunch up on one side, which is usually what happens when winching. I haven't needed the extension yet.

The big thing with rope is to spool it on under load the first time. Especially that first layer. If you don't, it may spin on the drum when you go to use it.

Good point there! Gonna go with the 5/16 x 80ft.

What about the battery? I have a 3 yr old walmart cheapie that's rated at 525cca. I've always wanted to upgrade to the drycells and it's either Odyssey or Optima. Which is the better battery?