What maintenance should I do after installation?
Documented on the Winch on hitch | Let's build it PT 2 build
Published July 12, 2026
Regularly inspect mounting bolts for tightness, check wiring and terminal corrosion, lubricate or inspect the rope/cable for wear, and keep the winch drum and fairlead clean.
Full Answer
Regularly inspect mounting bolts for tightness, check wiring and terminal corrosion, lubricate or inspect the rope/cable for wear, and keep the winch drum and fairlead clean. Also periodically test the winch under load to ensure proper operation.
Documented In This Build
Related Knowledge
What winch capacity should I get?How do I wire the winch safely to the battery?Can I mount the winch in a 2" receiver or do I need a special hitch?What torque should I use on the driveshaft flange bolts?Can I use an F100 driveshaft in my '65 Mustang?What size U-joints do I need?How do I determine the correct driveshaft length?Do I need new U-joints when installing an aluminum driveshaft?
Related Parts
Electric Winch (12V, ~10k-12k lb)
$450
Roller Fairlead (or hawse fairlead)
$40
Winch Mount Plate / Hitch Cradle (steel)
$120
Synthetic Winch Rope (or steel cable)
$150
Grade 8 Mounting Bolts & Hardware Kit
$20
Hitch-mounted winch cradle/adapter (if not fabricating)
$100
Shackles / D-rings (pair)
$40
Hitch Pin & Lock
$25
Winch Hook / Soft Shackle
$20
Paint / Rust Preventative (spray)
$15
Winch Wiring Kit (battery cables, inline fuse/portable solenoid/contactor, remote lead)
$80
Related Tools
Torque Wrench
Jack Stands / Floor Jack
Multimeter
MIG Welder (or TIG/Stick as available)
Drill & Metal Drill Bits
Impact Wrench / Ratchet and Socket Set
Wire Crimper / Cutters, Heat Shrink
Clamps & Measuring Tape / Marker
Personal Protective Equipment (gloves, welding helmet, eye protection)
Angle Grinder (cutting and grinding discs)
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