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Hidden winch and capable bumper

dgorsett

Big Bend
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I fretted over cutting the frame extensions for weeks, then just did it, easiest part. I found the RC kit to be very well thought out, at least for a 2.3.
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Aj3501

Aj3501

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Ford Bronco Hidden winch and capable bumper IMG_0044
Ford Bronco Hidden winch and capable bumper IMG_1667
Am i overthinking things here? This does not seem ideal, it seems like there always going to be downward force on that fairlead. also seems like i cant top feed the winch. waiting to hear back from the manufacture on that
 

mpeugeot

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I should have said cut off anything extra lol
I followed the instructions and didn’t have any issues. It’s odd that RC says it won’t fit and just wanted to make sure i wasn’t missing something
The original kits didn't include relocation brackets for the transmission cooler.
 

mpeugeot

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IMG_0044.webp
IMG_1667.webp
Am i overthinking things here? This does not seem ideal, it seems like there always going to be downward force on that fairlead. also seems like i cant top feed the winch. waiting to hear back from the manufacture on that
What about just reversing the feed?
 
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Aj3501

Aj3501

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What about just reversing the feed?
Thats what i was thinking of doing, but some manufactures dont want you to do that. Waiting to hear back superwinch
 

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Aj3501

Aj3501

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The original kits didn't include relocation brackets for the transmission cooler.
But that would be for any bronco with the V6 option, their website only says it wont fit the capable bumper
 

KreeHBronco

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It's 2025, but your install looks great. I am trying to decide on an RC vs Lobo hidden install on a 2.3L.
Did you have to relocate your solenoid/controller for the RC install or were you able to leave it as-is. My winch will be the Warn Platinum 10K. Any help is appreciate!
 
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Aj3501

Aj3501

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With the Superwinch I did have to relocate the Controller. Superwinch makes a mount that relocates it up in the engine bay. So far it's held up.

Ford Bronco Hidden winch and capable bumper tempImageZgdLVJ
 

KreeHBronco

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Thank you!! A few more questions ... did you have to raise your Bronco up (jack stand or ramps) to be able to access the necessary areas under the vehicle (to remove existing skid plate, cut off frame extensions, ...) or can it be done without raising anything? I have the Badlands without SAS on order. Also, I have a sawzall, 4 1/2 angle grinder, and multitool with carbide blades, which do you think would be the best for cutting off the frame extensions? Thank you for you help!
 
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Aj3501

Aj3501

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I did it in my garage on the floor. I did use a floor jack to lift and hold the winch and bracket while I bolted it to the frame.

I was able to cut it off with a sawzall.
 

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GI_Jo_Nathan

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Thank you!! A few more questions ... did you have to raise your Bronco up (jack stand or ramps) to be able to access the necessary areas under the vehicle (to remove existing skid plate, cut off frame extensions, ...) or can it be done without raising anything? I have the Badlands without SAS on order. Also, I have a sawzall, 4 1/2 angle grinder, and multitool with carbide blades, which do you think would be the best for cutting off the frame extensions? Thank you for you help!
A set of Rhino ramps may make it easier.
 

KreeHBronco

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Well I finally did it. I ordered the Lobo hidden winch mount (it was on sale for black Friday). I already have the winch (Warn Zeon Platinum), now I just have to wait for Feb of next year when I hope my 2026 Badlands will be delivered. Hopefully, it will fit. If not ... either modify or sale it.
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