Hitch-Mounted Winches

Anyone here using a winch that isn't permanently mounted? I'm looking at an 8000 lb unit that mounts in the trailer hitch, AND potentially a front hitch mount so I can use it from either end. Any experiences? Also any confirmed-to-fit part numbers for front-hitch bars for a 2022 TRD Pro?

I would VERY RARELY need it, could carry it inside until I get into heavy areas where it might be needed. I do not need nor want a permanent mount.

 

These sound like a very practical way to winch. More options than purely bumper mounted one. The big thing with front mounted receivers is the reduction in approach angles, judging from pics ive seen. May or may not be important in your situation.

 

I have a friend that mentioned the front-mount hitch as an option. As you mentioned, your entry angle when overlanding/offroading is significantly reduced. His argument was that you can take a different angle, the issue is there are trails and switchbacks that simply will not allow you that option.

@Geno, I am making an assumption and believe you are NOT off-roading, nor are expecting to use this in an off-road recovery situation? What are your possible applications or uses?

 

I have a front mounted receiver hitch for my hang glider rack. I could use it for a front mounted winch I suppose, but don't know if I'd trust the current mounting hardware, unless the winch loads were very light. For my purposes, I'm adding around 100 pounds total for the rack and hang glider, so I'm not too concerned. I also don't worry about approach angles as I don't offroad much in my truck.

 

I DO get off road some. My job requires me to find remote sites up logging roads, etc... so, I would call it VERY light off-roading, but in bad weather, sometimes I have to navigate some muddy or hilly terrain that is not ideal. My thought is that I may never need to be winched out, but if I did, I would be alone miles off the road. I seriously doubt I would try to get through an obstacle that may get me stuck, but you never know. One of those "in case I ever need it" items, hence not wanting to permanently mount anything.

 

this is the article that got me thinking about it. it's a 5th Gen, but not a 2022... but I'm sure there are similar products for the '22.

https://trail4runner.com/2020/06/16/curt-front-receiver-hitch-review-install-5th-gen-4runner/

 

You know your roads best, if you feel that the entry angle to many of these areas wont be compromised, then the front mount hitch / winch combo is a good one.

Here's the front mount hitch that I researched in conjunction with my buddy when we had our discussion: https://www.etrailer.com/Front-Rece...MItLKnpq6b9QIVrhfUAR2cWARkEAQYASABEgI0RvD_BwE

Etrailer is amazing. You can have it shipped to your home or mechanic shop for the install.

 

That's the one I found when I looked. It says 2021, but can I assume it will fit a 22 TRD Pro?

I've emailed them to ask, just haven't gotten a reply yet.

 

Yezzir, pretty sure it will fit on the 22

 

Just a thought, but it might be worth considering something like a chain hoist. This could be used inline and wouldn't require a hitch mount. Of course they're not as strong as an actual winch, but can be used for recovery as long as you're not totally buried in mud.

Another thing to consider is a good set of traction boards and a shovel. These are safer than a winch and can get you out of a jam as well. They are probably the best single thing you can carry for self recovery.

 

I already keep traction boards and shovel in a plano case I carry on the roof rack (along with tow strap, soft shackles, battery booster, rain coat, etc.

 

Their reply says that they "can not confirm fitment on a 2022". I imagine this is just because they haven't tried it yet, themselves. It DOES fit a 2021, and I don't think much is different.

 

It sounds like you're in pretty good shape to begin with.

 

Unfortunately, the Q&A at etrailer.com suggests that it may be necessary to remove or modify the TRD skid plate. (We have a 2022 ORP.)