This page contains contributions list members have made regarding selection and use of various types and brands of winches. Winching techniques are also discussed here. Tips and Techniques for Hi-Lift jack recovery can be found under the heading of Towing & Recovery.
When considering a winch for a D90, the general discussion usually centers around whether to choose an electric or a hydraulic winch. Electrics have generally higher line speeds, and can pull with the engine off, but they usually require an extra battery and heavy duty alternator to be truely effective, and can't pull continuously for long periods of time. Hydraulics can pull continuosly for long time periods, but are useless without some power source for the hydraulic pump. This usually means the vehicle must be running to use the winch.
When fitting an electric winch, the keys to top performance are using large cables and secure connections. The preferred method for this is use of welding cable, as large as 00 if possible. The many fine strands make welding cable extremely flexible and able to carry a high current. The concensus seems to be that about 15 feet of cable are needed on a D90. Once the exact lengths are determined, have the terminals crimped to the cable by a local welding supply house to be sure the connections are as good as they can be. Use grommets where the cable passes through bodywork, and extra insulation anywhere the cable is exposed high temperatures, especially near exhaust.
When fitting a hydraulic winch to a Land Rover, the usual source for power, the power steering pump, can not be used. The Land Rover PS pump does not have enough pressure or flow rate to operate the winch at anywhere near the advertised capacities and line rates. Other options include fitting an uprated PS pump, a secondary PS pump, or a PTO pump mounted behind the transfer case. If a PTO pump is chosen, remember that it will be operating through transmission, and will require the transfer case to be in neutral, meaning engine power will not be available to help free the vehicle. Some members have submitted guidelines for pump and tank sizing to help ensure the winch can operate at full capacity for extended periods.
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